UNDERSTANDING BLACK BELT QUALIFICATIONS The term “ black belt” is often misunderstood, with many people thinking all black belts are experts in their art. Not so!Most reputable black belts have affiliation with an accrediting body in Okinawa or Japan. You are encouraged to be wary when people have promoted themselves, without formal testing by an accredited body.All black belts at Neil Dunnigan's School of Karate have internationally recognized certification from Okinawa, Japan. As a guide, if you think in terms of western education, this is how degrees of black belts compare: 1st degreeblack belt is the equivalent of a high school graduate.2nd degreeblack belt is the equivalent of a college diploma.3rd degreeblack belt is the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree from university.4th degreeblack belt is the equivalent of a master’s degree from university.5th degreeblack belt can be compared to a doctorate degree from university.6th degree to 10th degreeblack belts are degrees of distinction, awarded to individuals with the above qualifications who have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to karate, while continuing to practice and learn. |