CISM Certification

With the world becoming a global village, the dangers of cyber theft and identity thefts are increasingly emerging. To deal with the risk of stolen data and information and its misuse, there is a need for dexterous professionals who can design efficient security systems. One such field of study is Information Security which is concerned with the prevention of unauthorized access, exposure, alteration, recording or disruption of information, not only in digital form but also physical forms such as print. There are varied certifications available in this domain for those wanting to build a career in Information security. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is one such program that aims to impart budding professionals with the knowledge of managing, surveilling, analysing as well as designing the information security system of an enterprise. Let’s explore more about the CISM certification as well as its whole process that you need to go through to attain this professional credential.

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What is CISM Certification?

Certified Information Security Manager, i.e. CISM Certification is offered by ISACA which is an acronym for Information Systems Audit and Control Association. It aims to impart aspirants with the knowledge of IT security as well as necessary managerial skills needed under this domain. It is specifically designed for those wanting to specialise in the managerial aspect of information security rather than delving deeper into its technical facet. Once accredited under this certification, CISM professionals can explore career profiles that are given the responsibility of overseeing the information security systems in an enterprise or an organisation, from designing information security practices to laws to regulations and policies. Moreover, the CISM Exam registration window opens in February every year till May. The course duration depends upon the format a student chooses, whether through online sessions which span across nine-weeks or a full-time course which can be completed over fewer weeks.

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Step-By-Step Guide to Getting CISM Certification

To help you understand the process of gaining CISM Certification, we have curated a step-by-step guide of clearing the examination as well as other key essentials which have been given a rundown below:

Step 1: Qualify the Exam 

Being one of the sought after programs in Information Security, CISM certification has only one examination you need to qualify. Thus, you can easily crack the exam and earn a worthy certification. Also, the exam fees for a member is 575$ (43,300 INR approx.) and 760$ (57,200 INR approx.) for a new member and CISM exam is conducted at PTI testing locations around the world. During the CISM journey towards your career aspirations, you must make sure that your knowledge regarding the specified topics under its syllabus must be top-notch. Majorly the concepts which are a part of the examination are:

Information Security Governance  

It is important to have a sound understanding of establishing, managing and maintaining information security governance frameworks. Also, candidates should possess knowledge of all the supporting processes which make sure that the security systems design by the IT department matches with the goals of the organization.

Information Risk Management 

To ace this section, candidates must know how to manage the information-related risks up to the level that do not harm the organization’s goals and objectives. Applicants must keep in their mind that this topic holds the maximum weightage of the CISM Certification, thus, it is vital to explore Information Risk Management in detail.

Information Security Program Development and Management 

To score well in this section, it is important to have an idea about how to develop and maintain information security which can manage, identify and protect the organization’s IT assets while ensuring no loss to the information security strategy and goals. 

Information Security Incident Management 

You must have the required knowledge to plan, establish and manage the security to detect, investigate and respond to the security threats that can happen to an organization. To minimize the happenings of such events, candidates should have abilities to recover and respond from the information security incidents.  

Step 2: Abide by the Code of Professional Ethics 

As per the ISACA, those who successfully want to gain the CISM certification must fall align with the Code of Professional Ethics. Let us take a look at some of the 7 points briefly which aim to guide the candidates regarding personal and professional ethics.

1. Candidates will have to make sure that the controlling, auditing, security and risk management systems are implemented and supported within the organization.
2. It is mandatory for the applicants to perform all their duties aligned with the professional standards as mentioned in the CISM certification.
3. Applicants must not hold this practice to disrepute the organization and should operate within the limits of the law etc.

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Step 3: Participate in the CPE Program

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In the technologically advanced era, we come across new trends every other day, just to make sure that the potential candidates for CISM Certification are up to date with the trends in this field, it is mandatory to be a part of CPE (Continued Professional Education policy) so that their knowledge is top-notch. In this program, knowledge regarding all the latest information and trends regarding the new security policies is imparted. 

Step 4: Gain the Required Work Experience 

As a part of the eligibility criteria, it is essential to present a valid proof stating that you have a work experience of at least 5 years in Information Security along with a minimum of 3 years in Information Security Management. The total work experience gained must completed within a period of 10 years prior to applying for the CISM Certification. Let us have a look how the aspirants can substitute their work experience by 1 or 2 years:

Two Years

• Must be qualified as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
• Postgraduate degree in Information security or some other related field.

One Year:

• One year of experience in information systems management.
• One full year of general security management experience.

Note: Applicants must keep in mind that along with the substituted years of work experience it is necessary to have 3 years of mandatory work experience in information system management.

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Thus, we hope that this blog has helped you gain insights into the CISM Certification. If you want to learn more about the emerging field of information security and other certified courses on offer, reach out to our experts at Leverage Edu and we will help you find the best program and university that aligns with your interests and aspirations and guides towards a rewarding career in this domain.