In our increasingly digitized world, the importance of cybersecurity continues to grow, creating over a million jobs in the field. Earning a cybersecurity certificate is an excellent way to start or advance your career in this booming industry.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science is one of the most common ways to land a job as a cybersecurity professional. However, many companies prefer candidates with certifications that validate their knowledge of best practices. Various certifications are available, including general, vendor-specific, entry-level, and advanced.
Choosing the right cybersecurity certificate program can give you a competitive edge, help you build job-ready skills, and provide you with a shareable certificate from an industry leader.
What is a Cybersecurity Certificate Program?
A cybersecurity certificate program demonstrates a student’s capabilities in software, programming languages, and web development – skills crucial for starting or advancing careers in cybersecurity. These programs offer specialized training in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats, covering areas such as threat analysis, risk management, and information security.
Also Read: The Essential Guide to Endpoint Security and Protections
Why Get an Online Certificate in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity certificate programs offer a straightforward way to earn credentials in the field. Certificates benefit both beginners and experienced professionals by validating their skills and knowledge, making them more attractive to employers. With the growing demand for qualified professionals, holding a certificate can help candidates stand out in the competitive job market, leading to new career opportunities.
Often, these programs are shorter than associate degrees, allowing learners to quickly gain new skills, enhance existing knowledge, or explore new areas without a long-term commitment.
As bachelor’s degrees become more common for entry-level jobs, a certificate can be a useful step toward a degree. Therefore, it’s a valuable investment for anyone wanting to build a successful career.
Top In-Demand Cybersecurity Certifications
While many cybersecurity certifications flood the market, not all are equally significant. Here are some of the most sought-after certifications for professionals at all levels.
CISSP Certification Course
The CISSP certification is one of the industry’s most coveted credentials. Achieving CISSP certification signifies your IT security proficiency and ability to create, execute, and oversee cybersecurity initiatives.
Requirements:
- Minimum five years of cumulative, full-time experience in two or more CISSP Exam Outline domains.
- Post-secondary degree in computer science, IT, or related fields may substitute for up to one year of experience.
- An additional credential from the ISC2 approved list may substitute for up to one year of experience.
- Part-time work and internships can count towards the experience requirement.
Benefits:
- Enhances career prospects by unlocking higher-level cybersecurity roles.
- Internationally recognized, elevating credibility in IT security.
- Validates proficiency in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity programs.
- CISSP certification correlates with higher salaries and job security.
- Provides networking opportunities with fellow cybersecurity professionals.
Average Cost: $174,195
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
This certification showcases your skills in assessing security vulnerabilities, implementing controls, and ensuring compliance. It’s highly regarded in cybersecurity auditing careers.
Requirements:
Minimum five years of experience in IT or IS audit, control, security, or assurance. A degree can substitute for years of experience.
Benefits:
- Recognition of expertise in cybersecurity auditing.
- Enhanced career opportunities and salary potential.
- Membership in a prestigious IT professional association.
Average Cost: $575
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification validates expertise in managing information security, covering governance, program development, and incident and risk management.
Requirements:
- Minimum five years of experience in information security management.
- Up to two years can be substituted with general information security experience or a related certification or degree.
Benefits:
- Demonstrated proficiency in managing information security.
- Enhanced career prospects in managerial cybersecurity roles.
- Membership in a reputable professional association.
Average cost: $760
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification is an entry-level credential that validates fundamental skills necessary for any cybersecurity role. It showcases your ability to evaluate an organization’s security, secure environments like cloud and mobile, and respond to security incidents.
Requirements:
- Although not mandatory, earning your Network+ certification first and gaining at least two years of IT experience with a security focus is recommended.
Benefits:
- Validates core cybersecurity skills essential for various roles.
- Enhances career opportunities in cybersecurity.
- Demonstrates proficiency in handling security incidents and compliance.
Average cost: $370
Also Read: What is Threat Intelligence? Definition, Types, Importance, and More
How to Choose the Best Cybersecurity Certificate Program?
With so many reputable certification bodies and many certifications available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? When selecting the best cybersecurity certificate program, consider the following factors:
Be Clear About Your Career Goals
Determine which certification aligns with your desired career path. Identify the skills and knowledge you need for the role you want. For instance, to become a penetration tester, one must look for certifications that focus on ethical hacking. If you’re interested in managerial roles, consider certifications that emphasize security management.
Ensure the certification will help you advance toward your career objectives. Research the job market to see which certifications employers prefer for your target roles. Aligning your certification with your career goals can significantly enhance your career prospects and growth.
Check the Prerequisites
Ensure you meet the program’s entry requirements. Some certifications require prior experience or specific educational backgrounds. For example, advanced certifications may require several years of work experience in cybersecurity, while beginner-level certifications only require basic IT knowledge.
Check the prerequisites before applying to avoid wasting time and resources. Understanding the entry requirements helps you select a certification that matches your skill level. Meeting the prerequisites ensures you can complete the program and gain the intended benefits. Always review the specific requirements for each certification program you consider.
Opt for the Right Curriculum
Look for a program that covers topics relevant to your interests and career goals. Review the course syllabus to ensure it includes the skills and knowledge you want to acquire. A good curriculum should cover essential areas like network security, threat analysis, and risk management.
Make sure it offers practical, hands-on training and theoretical knowledge. A comprehensive curriculum prepares you for real-world challenges in cybersecurity. Selecting a program with the right topics ensures you gain valuable skills to help you succeed in your chosen career path.
Choose a Reputed Institute
Consider the reputation of the institution or organization offering the certification. Research the certifying body to see if it is well-regarded in the industry. Check for reviews and testimonials from past students. Employers often prefer certifications from reputable sources, impacting your job prospects.
A certification from a respected institution can enhance your resume and provide better career opportunities. Verify that employers recognize and value the certification in your desired field. A strong reputation adds credibility to your qualifications and can make you stand out to potential employers.
Cost and Duration
Balance your budget and time availability with the program’s cost and length. Certifications vary widely in price, so choose one you can afford without financial strain. Consider how long the program will take, and ensure it fits your schedule.
Some certifications can be earned in a few months, while others may take a year or more. Weigh the benefits against the cost and duration to determine the best value. Investing in certification should provide a good return in terms of career advancement and salary increase. Ensure the program’s timeline and expenses align with your personal and professional commitments.
Also Read: What is IoT Security? Explanation, Importance, Types, and More
Jobs You Can Get With a Cybersecurity Certificate
Earning a cybersecurity certificate can open doors to various job opportunities. Here are some potential job titles and their average salaries:
Cybersecurity Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $140,122
Role: Cybersecurity analysts safeguard organizations from cyberattacks and unauthorized access. In this position, you will:
- Monitor networks for security breaches
- Investigate, document, and report breaches
- Research IT security trends
- Assist users with security products and procedures
- Develop strategies to secure the organization
Cybersecurity Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $110,608
Role: Cybersecurity consultants work with multiple clients on short-term, project-oriented tasks. Your duties may involve:
- Measuring, designing, and implementing security systems
- Developing security procedures
- Collaborating with in-house teams to respond to intrusions
- Conducting information security compliance assessments and audits
Network Security Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $117,173
Role: Network security engineers design, install, and monitor cybersecurity layers. You’ll need to know about:
- Configuring and administering network and security hardware and software
- Preventing unauthorized access from outside sources
- Preparing for security threats and mitigating risks
- Stress testing networks
- Troubleshooting technology
- Documenting IT infrastructure
IT Auditor
Average Annual Salary: $112,341
Role: IT auditors evaluate IT infrastructure for security, efficiency, and compliance issues. Regular tasks include:
- Creating plans to audit infrastructure
- Performing and documenting audits
- Reporting audit findings and recommending risk reduction strategies
- Developing and installing security fixes
- Seeking opportunities for improved efficiency
Security Tester
Average Annual Salary: $84,338
Role: As a security tester, you ensure an organization stays ahead of threats. Your tasks might include:
- Designing and implementing IT security systems to protect networks from attacks
- Monitoring networks for security issues
- Installing security software
- Documenting security issues or breaches
Shape Your Cybersecurity Career With the Right Certification
Entering the cybersecurity field demands expertise and credentials. With many certifications available, choosing wisely based on your career goals, prerequisites, curriculum, reputation, and affordability is crucial. These certifications not only validate your skills but also open doors to lucrative career opportunities in cybersecurity.
You can take the first step towards a rewarding career in cybersecurity by enrolling in a reputable cybersecurity bootcamp today.
Acquire offensive and defensive cybersecurity skills, including network security and digital forensics. Receive a cybersecurity bootcamp certificate and up to 26 CEUs via CTME. Engage in live virtual classes led by industry experts alongside self-paced learning modules. Participate in hands-on projects and experiential learning within a cohort-based bootcamp format.
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