Get Ahead with the ISACA CISM Certification

  • ISACA CISM certification
  • Published by: André Hammer on Feb 01, 2024

Businesses are constantly dealing with changes in technology and data security. This makes it more and more crucial to have skilled professionals in information security management. One way to excel in this field is by getting the ISACA CISM certification.

This certification shows that you are skilled in managing, designing, and evaluating an organization's information security program. It also creates new prospects for career growth. In this article, we will look at the advantages of having the CISM certification and how it can boost your career in information security management.

Understanding the Role of Security in CISM

Core Principles of Information Security

Professionals in information security must follow core principles: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Security management is responsible for upholding these principles. This means keeping sensitive information private, maintaining data accuracy, and ensuring authorized users can access information. The CISM certification equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage these principles in an organization's security program.

It helps professionals identify and address security risks, develop security policies, and protect information assets. Obtaining this certification also shows a commitment to high standards of information security, which can be beneficial for career advancement.

Security Management Responsibilities

Security management in an organization involves many responsibilities, such as identifying security risks, implementing controls, and monitoring security measures. It also includes managing security policies, processes, and procedures to support an overall information security strategy. Effective security management ensures compliance with laws, regulations, and industry standards like GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO 27001 to protect sensitive information and maintain customer trust.

For instance, regularly updating an inventory of IT hardware, software, and data assets helps confirm compliance with regulations and industry standards.

Exploring the Benefits of CISM Certification

Advantages of CISM Certification for Professionals

Professionals with CISM certification have more job options and can earn higher salaries. This credential is highly respected in the information security field. It provides a thorough understanding of information security management, which is important for career growth. CISM certification is globally recognized, creating international opportunities.

Additionally, it showcases expertise in managing, designing, and assessing information security for an enterprise. This sets it apart from credentials like CISSP, which focus on different aspects of information security. The practical skills gained through CISM certification help professionals tackle the challenges of today's digital world effectively. This makes it a valuable certification to have.

The Impact of CISM Certification on Career Growth

Professionals who have CISM certification can advance their careers by accessing top-level information security management roles, like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and IT security manager positions.

This certification showcases expertise in developing and managing an enterprise information security program, making it highly sought after by employers. It also leads to increased responsibilities, higher earning potential, and career progression within organizations, highlighting a dedication to ongoing improvement and professional growth in security management.

Certified professionals are also equipped to effectively identify and handle information security risks, further boosting their career prospects and enhancing the security posture of their organizations.

Comparing CISM with CISSP Credentials

The CISM credential focuses on information security management, risk management, and governance. It's suitable for professionals in higher managerial roles.

On the other hand, the CISSP covers a broader range of security topics. It's suitable for professionals functioning across different roles within the security field.

In terms of job opportunities and career paths, CISSP certification holders generally have a wider range of opportunities due to its wider scope.

CISM holders can expect to be considered for more specific and higher-level positions that require expertise in security management.

The CISM certification is highly recognized in the industry as a standard for information security managers.

The CISSP certification is often seen as a more general qualification.

Professionals seeking to specialize in security management may find the CISM to be more beneficial for professional development, compared to the CISSP.

Job Potential and Salary Outlook for CISM Certification Holders

Examining the Job Market for CISM Professionals

The job market for CISM professionals has many opportunities. These include roles like information security manager, IT security consultant, and chief information security officer. Demand for CISM professionals is consistently high. It often exceeds other security certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+.

On average, CISM certification holders can expect a competitive salary outlook. Roles in information security management often offer salaries in the higher range of the spectrum. CISM professionals are sought after by finance, healthcare, and technology industries, leading to diverse job opportunities.

Analysing the Salary Outlook Post-CISM Certification

Professionals with CISM certification can expect a 25-30% salary increase on average. This distinguishes them from non-certified peers in information security. Employers value the expertise that comes with CISM, leading to better compensation. Factors like experience, job role, and industry impact variation in salaries. For instance, those in finance may earn more than those in healthcare due to different demands and risks.

Assessing the Pros and Cons of ISACA CISM Certification

Pros of Obtaining CISM Certification

Obtaining CISM certification benefits professionals by demonstrating their expertise in managing, designing, and assessing an enterprise's information security. It can lead to career growth, with opportunities for higher paying jobs and promotions. Unlike CISSP credentials, CISM focuses specifically on information security management, while CISSP covers a broader range of topics including security and risk management.

CISM equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manageand oversee an organization's information security program, making it a valuable asset in the UK job market.

Cons Associated with CISM Certification

Obtaining CISM certification may have some challenges. These include the need for extensive work experience and the cost of the exam and study materials. Maintaining the certification also requires ongoing professional education, which can be time-consuming and costly.

However, CISM certification can have a significant impact on an individual's career and professional development. It can create new job opportunities, potential salary increases, and enhance credibility within the industry.

CISM certification differs from other security credentials, like CISSP, as it focuses on governance, risk management, and compliance, rather than technical security skills. This makes it valuable for those interested in management and leadership roles in information security.

Requirements for ISACA CISM Certification

Degree and Educational Prerequisites

To qualify for the ISACA CISM Certification, candidates need at least five years of relevant work experience in information security. They must also have a minimum of three years of work experience in information security management.

Candidates can substitute up to two years of work experience with various education programs or other certifications. A bachelor's degree in an information security related field is required, or candidates can substitute this with other relevant certifications or work experience.

There are no specific educational prerequisites for taking the CISM exam, except for obtaining the necessary work experience in information security and security management.

The exam focuses on testing a candidate's knowledge in information security governance, risk management, information security program development, and management, and incident management.

Necessary Work Experience in Security Fields

To get ISACA CISM certification, you need at least 5 years of full-time work experience in information security management within the last 10 years or within 5 years of passing the exam. Your experience should cover at least 3 of these areas: information risk management, information security governance, information security program development and management, information security incident management, and information security management.

This extensive experience ensures that CISM-certified individuals have a practical understanding of the security field, not just theoretical knowledge. So, having a long-term career in security, like leading an enterprise's information security program, is crucial for CISM certification.

Passing the CISM Exam

To pass the CISM exam and get certified, candidates need at least five years of experience in information security management and a passing score on the exam.

After certification, professionals in the information security field can expect career growth and more job opportunities. CISM certification shows expertise and can lead to promotions and higher pay.

Getting CISM certification from ISACA takes a lot of time, money, and effort because the exam is tough and the certification process is demanding.

But, the benefits of having CISM certification usually outweigh the drawbacks, especially for professionals who want to stand out in information security.

Continuing Education and Maintenance

CISM certification holders must complete 20 hours of continuing education each year and a maximum of 120 hours over three years. They can do this by attending educational sessions, online webinars, writing articles, and volunteering in the industry.

The core principles of information security that CISM certification holders should know about are asset management, risk management, incident management, and governance.

Having a CISM certification can boost career growth and job potential. It validates expertise in information security management and creates opportunities for advanced roles and higher compensation. It also improves professional credibility, giving a competitive advantage in the job market.

Exam Details for ISACA CISM Certification in 2022

2022 CISM Exam Format and Structure

The 2022 CISM exam has 150 multiple-choice questions. You have four hours to complete it. It covers information security management components like governance, risk management, program development, and incident management.

In 2022, the exam focuses more on real-world scenarios and practical applications. This reflects the changing information security field and the need for current skills.

The exam covers topics like cybersecurity risk management, security program management, incident management, and governance and compliance. Understanding these topics is important for professionals aiming to get CISM certification and excel in their information security roles.

Key Topics Covered in the 2022 CISM Course Curriculum

The 2022 CISM Course Curriculum covers important principles such as information security governance, risk management, incident management, and program development and management.

Professionals holding a CISM certification can demonstrate expertise in these areas, leading to career growth opportunities in roles such as CISO or IT security manager.

The curriculum also focuses on key topics related to the CISM exam format and structure, including information security risk assessment, security program development and management, incident management, and governance and compliance.

This comprehensive coverage ensures that professionals are well-prepared to sit for the CISM exam and succeed in the field of information security management.

Final thoughts

Advance in information security management with the ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification. This credential shows expertise in managing, designing, and overseeing an enterprise's information security. It is globally recognised. Pursuing this certification can lead to career growth, higher earnings, and more job opportunities.

Readynez offers a 4-day CISM Course and Certification Program, providing you with all the learning and support you need to successfully prepare for the exam and certification. The CISM course, and all our other ISACA courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Security Training offer, where you can attend the CISM and 60+ other Security courses for just €249 per month, the most flexible and affordable way to get your Security Certifications.

Please reach out to us with any questions or if you would like a chat about your opportunity with the CISM certification and how you best achieve it. 

FAQ

What are the benefits of obtaining an ISACA CISM certification?

Obtaining an ISACA CISM certification can boost career prospects, increase earning potential, and demonstrate expertise in information security and risk management. It can also provide opportunities for networking and access to valuable resources, such as the latest best practices and industry trends.

What is the exam format for ISACA CISM certification?

The exam format for ISACA CISM certification consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, and takes four hours to complete.

What are the prerequisites for taking the ISACA CISM exam?

To take the ISACA CISM exam, you need a minimum of five years of experience in information security management. This can include work experience and education. For example, a bachelor's degree in a related field can substitute for two years of experience.

How can ISACA CISM certification help in advancing one's career?

Achieving ISACA CISM certification can advance one's career by demonstrating expertise in information security management. This can lead to higher-paying positions such as Chief Information Security Officer or senior leadership roles in cybersecurity.

What is the average salary for someone with ISACA CISM certification?

The average salary for someone with ISACA CISM certification is approximately $126,000 per year. For example, a CISM-certified IT security manager can earn around $130,000 annually.

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