Top ISACA Cybersecurity Certifications 2024 | Career Advancement
Top ISACA Cybersecurity Certifications 2024 | Career Advancement
Don’t get left behind in the cybersecurity landscape:
These ISACA certifications will keep you ahead in your career.
The digital landscape is more critical than ever. Hackers are relentless, threats are evolving, and employers are desperately seeking professionals with the skills to build a secure digital fortress.
Equip yourself with the top ISACA cybersecurity certifications that can serve as your blueprint for success. This guide ranks the essential qualifications to help you decide which credential will best sharpen your skills and open doors to advanced opportunities.
Find the Perfect ISACA Cybersecurity Certification:
A Guide to Comparing Your Options
ISACA offers a variety of options each designed to equip you with the specific skills and knowledge needed for different roles and responsibilities. These certifications are not simply about acquiring knowledge but are a testament to a professional’s commitment to their industry. The main ISACA certifications are:
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
- Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
In Malaysia, ISACA certifications are valued strategic assets that upgrade the credentials of auditors, managers, and other IT practitioners, thus bolstering their career prospects. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, ISACA facilitates the transformative change needed to compete as individuals and enterprises.
Let’s break down each ISACA certification to help you choose the one that aligns with your goals.
1. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The ISACA CISA certification is intended for IT professionals tasked with auditing, monitoring, and assessing information technology and business systems.
Securing the CISA certification can yield substantial career advancement, propelling professionals to senior roles like IT auditor, information security manager, or chief information security officer.
The CISA exam encompasses five domains and requires at least five years of experience in IT or IS audit, control, security, or assurance. This experience requirement can be partially offset by an IT-relevant degree.
The CISA certification features 5 key domains:
- Information Systems Auditing Process
- Governance and Management of IT
- Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation
- Information Systems Operation and Business Resilience
- Protection of Information Assets
In 2023, SC Awards Finalist: Best Professional Certification Program and was Ranked #9 in the Global Knowledge’s 2022 Highest-Paying Cybersecurity Certifications
Recognized internationally as the leading certification for IT audit professionals, CISAs are at the forefront of emerging technologies, and through controls and audit processes, they ensure compliance and minimize risk.
2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The ISACA CISM certification is a credential specifically designed for advanced IT security managers.
CISM focuses solely on high-level IT security management, elevating the perception of the IT security team, proving to the business side of the organization that the IT team has the management-level skills to communicate vulnerabilities and solutions from a business standpoint and balance priorities effectively.
The CISM certification focuses on 4 areas:
- Information Security Governance
- Information Security Incident Management
- Information Security Program Development
- Information Security Risk Management
According to ISACA, 78% of surveyed organizations anticipate a surge in demand for technical cybersecurity contributors in the coming year, hence why CISM might be one of your best choice of certification to advance your cybersecurity career.
In 2024, the average CISM Certification salary in Malaysia is as high as MYR 182,000.
CISM goes beyond technical knowledge, requiring a deep understanding of the business and the ability to communicate effectively across all levels, from technical staff to executives.
3. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
The ISACA CRISC certification empowers IT professionals to become risk management champions. According to ISACA, this globally recognized credential is held by over 40,000 professionals worldwide.
CRISC is the only IT risk management (ITRM) certification on the market that can arm IT teams with the latest ERM best practices to build a strong ERM framework with documented business continuity plans to enhance resilience. CRISC validates your ability to identify, assess, and mitigate IT-related risks impacting your organization.
Beyond technical expertise, CRISC equips you with strategic thinking to proactively identify and address potential issues before they escalate. This positions you as a trusted advisor within your organization, contributing significantly to its overall security posture.
The CRISC credential emphasise on these 4 domains:
- Governance
- IT Risk Assessment
- Risk Response and Reporting
- Information Technology and Security.
CRISC has received over 15 global recognitions and has been ranked #1 in the CertMag.com 2023 Highest-Paying IT Certifications and #1 in Global Knowledge’s 2022 Highest Paying Cybersecurity Certifications
The CRISC certification is an invaluable asset for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in risk management. It demonstrates your commitment to proactive risk management and positions you as a trusted advisor within your organization.
4. Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
Earning an ISACA CGEIT certification sets IT governance professionals apart. Unlike other certifications, focuses on the bigger picture, teaching you how to assess, design, and manage IT governance systems that directly align with your organization’s goals.
This unique, framework-agnostic approach ensures your skills are relevant regardless of specific methodologies, ultimately maximizing business value through effective IT governance. According to ISACA, CGEIT is held by over 6,000 professionals globally, which equips you with the knowledge and expertise to become a strategic IT governance leader.
The CGEIT certification focuses on these 5 areas:
- Governance of Enterprise IT Framework
- Strategic Management
- Benefits Realization
- Risk Optimization
- Resource Optimization
CGEIT named among the top 17 IT management certifications and ranked #2 among the top 6 governance, risk and compliance certifications, according to CIO Magazine
CGEIT certification is ideal for IT professionals such as directors, auditors, risk management specialists, security professionals, and business process owners. This certification reflects its emphasis on high-level decision-making and strategic thinking within the IT governance landscape.
Real-World Applications of ISACA Certifications
Professionals certified by ISACA significantly contribute to the success of an organization. They play crucial roles in:
- Managing IT-related risks
- Enhancing enterprise IT governance
- Ensuring data security
- Aiding in streamlined operations
- Meeting regulatory compliance
ISACA-certified professionals enhance an organization’s IT governance and ensure data security, aiding in streamlined operations and meeting regulatory compliance.
Organizations count on the expertise of ISACA-certified individuals to defend against cybersecurity threats, maintain the integrity of data, and bolster their overall security defenses. ISACA’s certifications equip professionals with the ability to enforce robust cybersecurity defenses, conduct effective IT audits, and minimize cyber risks in their organizations.
In practical scenarios, ISACA certifications extend beyond just theoretical knowledge. They equip professionals with practical skills that they can apply directly to their roles, contributing to the organization’s success and enhancing their individual career prospects.
Benefits of Earning ISACA Certifications
ISACA certifications are highly sought-after credentials within the IT security and governance industry. ISACA certifications are not just about immediate financial gain. They also demonstrate a professional’s dedication to continuous learning and staying current on best practices in IT security — a critical attribute in this constantly evolving field.
By earning an ISACA certification, you’re not just enhancing your skillset – you’re investing in your future within the cybersecurity domain. These credentials empower you to tackle complex challenges with confidence, contribute innovative solutions, and earn the respect of your colleagues as a trusted advisor and not to mention, ISACA certifications enhances your marketability in the cybersecurity job market which signifies your expertise to potential employers, making you a strong candidate for promotions, leadership roles, and exciting new career paths.
Preparing for ISACA Certification Exams
Earning an ISACA certification is a rewarding achievement that validates your expertise in IT security and governance. While the exams can be challenging, a strategic preparation plan can significantly increase your success rate.
Key strategies to help you prepare your ISACA certification exams:
Structured Training: Enroll in a program offered by an Accredited Training Organization (ATO). Such as Trainocate Malaysia.
Our training programs use ISACA-approved materials and courses, ensuring you’re covering all the essential concepts. At Trainocate Malaysia, we offer a comprehensive range of ISACA certification programs, including CISA, CISM, CRISC, and CGEIT. We provide various delivery formats to suit your learning style and schedule, including in-person classes, online learning, and blended options.
Official ISACA Resources: ISACA offers a wealth of study materials, including official study guides, review manuals, and targeted publications. These resources provide comprehensive coverage of the exam content.
Hands-on Practice: While theoretical knowledge is crucial, practical application is key to solidifying your understanding. Look for practice exams and mock tests that mirror the format of the actual ISACA exam.
Time Management: Effective time management is essential during the exam. Practice answering questions within the allocated time to avoid getting caught up on any single question.
Tips for Choosing the Right ISACA Certification
Selecting the appropriate certification can be a daunting task considering the multitude of options available. However, a few guiding principles can make this decision easier. When choosing an ISACA certification, it is crucial to identify your career goals and realistically assess your experience level.
For instance, if you are a professional involved in IT and business system auditing, the CISA certification might be the right choice for you. CISA equips you with a comprehensive understanding of IT audit methodologies, risk management principles, and IT governance best practices.
If you are an experienced IT security manager aspiring to a higher-level role, the CISM certification could be your best bet. Through this program, you gain expertise in information security program development and implementation, risk assessment and management, incident response, and security governance.
Similarly, for those passionate about proactively managing IT risk across your organization, the CRISC certification is ideal. This credential equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to identify, assess, mitigate, and report on IT-related risks.
On the other hand, if your career goals lie in the realm of IT governance and strategic leadership, the CGEIT certification is an excellent option. This program empowers you to develop a comprehensive understanding of IT governance frameworks, ensuring IT initiatives align with overall business objectives.
A degree in computer science may substitute for some work experience requirements, which can influence the choice of certification. Understanding your career goals, assessing your experience level, and considering the potential impact on your career progression and earning potential are all critical factors to consider when choosing an ISACA certification.
Whatever path you choose, Trainocate Malaysia can be your trusted partner in achieving your ISACA certification goals. We offer comprehensive programs for CISA, CISM, CRISC, and CGEIT, all designed and delivered by experienced IT security professionals.
Don’t Let Your Expertise Expire:
Maintaining and Renewing ISACA Certifications
Staying relevant in today’s dynamic IT landscape requires continuous learning. That’s why ISACA certifications emphasize ongoing professional development. Here’s how to ensure your valuable credential stays active:
CPE credits can be earned through various activities such as:
- Invest 20 Hours Annually: Dedicate just 20 hours each year to ongoing education, keeping you sharp and up-to-date on the latest industry trends.
- 120 Hours Over Three Years: Stay at the top of your game with a total of 120 CPE credits earned over a three-year cycle.
- Share Your Expertise: Earn credits by contributing to the field through teaching workshops, publishing articles, or participating in vendor-sponsored events.
- Track Your Progress: Log your CPE activities conveniently online via the ISACA website.
- Be Prepared: In case of an audit, keep completion certificates for your CPE activities handy.
- Annual Maintenance Fee: Both members and non-members pay a yearly maintenance fee to keep their certifications active. ISACA members enjoy discounted rates on renewals and CPE opportunities.
Renewing your ISACA certification demonstrates your dedication to continuous learning and strengthens your value proposition to potential employers. Remember, over 90% of certified professionals choose to maintain their credentials, recognizing the ongoing benefits they provide.
Summary
In today’s competitive IT market, standing out from the crowd is crucial, and generic certifications just blend in with the noise. Unlike ISACA certifications, they aren’t just a resume booster, they’re your secret weapon for exceeding expectations. ISACA certifications provide a strategic asset for IT professionals, enhancing their credentials, and providing them with an edge in a competitive market. Whether you’re an IT auditor, a security manager, or a risk management professional, there’s an ISACA certification that can boost your career prospects, increase your earning potential, and enhance your professional reputation.
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, it’s never been more important to stay ahead of the curve. With ISACA certifications, you can do just that. They equip you with the latest skills and knowledge, keeping you at the forefront of your field. So why wait? Start your journey towards becoming an ISACA-certified professional today and unlock new opportunities for career growth and success!
Discover more about ISACA Cybersecurity Trainings
We’ve crafted additional blog posts exploring how ISACA certifications empower your cybersecurity career. Dive deeper and explore them below!
→ Become a leader with ISACA: Cybersecurity Leadership
→ Incorporating ISACA Certifications into Corporate Training Program
→ ISACA’s CISM vs CRISC: Which Certification Is Right for You?
