Cybersecurity Certifications for Career Growth

Information technology is a constantly evolving field that always needs skilled professionals to foster technological innovation. As a subfield of IT, cybersecurity has seen significant advancements over the last few decades and in today’s digital age. Many cybersecurity specialists turn to industry certification to expand their knowledge and prove their commitment to thwarting cybercriminals.

Cybersecurity certifications confer skills in areas like incident response and management, threat identification, and network and cloud security—capabilities that employers love to see. These certs take less time and cost less money than a bachelor’s degree, making them attractive credentials for IT professionals.

This blog discusses top cybersecurity certifications that can contribute to career growth and advancement. Read on to learn more.

The Different Paths to Cybersecurity Jobs

A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program can certainly prepare students aspiring to enter the IT field, but not all jobs necessitate a bachelor’s. An individual’s career trajectory largely depends on the kind of cybersecurity job they’re seeking.

Some entry-level job listings may require only specific technology-related certifications. Employers might look for applicants that hold cybersecurity certifications like the following:

• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
• Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES)

Meanwhile, senior cybersecurity roles generally require an advanced degree, advanced-level certifications, or both.

Types of Certifications

Some of the most common certifications in cybersecurity include:

• CompTIA Security+. This certification confers fundamental skills in IT security areas like risk assessment, governance and compliance, internet of things (IoT), and cyber threat response.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Individuals with this certification are well versed in software development security, network security, cybersecurity architecture, and identity and access management.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). The Certified Ethical Hacker cert prepares its earners to combat cybercrimes such as malware and identify theft. This cert emphasizes proper assessment of system vulnerabilities.
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). This cert reinforces skills in penetration testing and vulnerability management.
• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC). The GSEC cert verifies earners’ skills in access management, cloud security, network security, and cryptography.

Benefits of Getting Certified

Is getting certified worth the time and effort? Cybersecurity professionals who seek out certifications may experience a variety of benefits, including the following:

• Career advancement. This might include increased job opportunities like promotions or a higher earning potential.
• Specialized skill set. Certified professionals can enjoy enhanced skills in the workplace, leading to more productivity and potential mentorship roles.
• Greater job fulfillment. A clearer understanding of cybersecurity principles can inspire a sense of fulfillment and appreciation while on the job.
• Increased job prospects. Earning an industry cert can help individuals stand out in the job market, opening doors to more prospective careers.

Popular Certification Providers

There are many organizations that offer cybersecurity certifications. Below is a list of some of the most well-known providers:

• CompTIA. The Computing Technology Industry Association issues more than a dozen IT certifications around the world. These certs are focused on everything from data management and cloud computing to different types of computer operating systems.
• ISC2. The International Information System Security Certification Consortium specializes in administering certs in information security architecture, management, and engineering.
• EC-Council. This New Mexico-based company offers certification and training in IT security, digital forensics, and disaster recovery.
• Offensive Security. OffSec is known for its courses, exams, and certifications in system security and penetration testing as well as its open source projects.
• GIAC. Global Information Assurance Certification provides dozens of certs related to cybersecurity, incident response, and digital forensics.

Certification Preparation Tips

What’s the best way to prepare to earn a cybersecurity certification? The answer depends on your educational and professional priorities. Consider first if you’d like to study cybersecurity in general or focus on a specific subfield. Then, do some research on various certifications that align with your interests.

Remember that certifications usually—if not always—require you to take an exam and pursue continuing education. Consider the following tips as you prepare for certification:

• Find a respected certification provider. Only go to a reputable provider for your certification, whether it’s a software or third-party organization.
• Determine your budget and timeline. Plan beforehand for how long a cert program will take and how much you’ll pay.
• Choose a certification program. Identify a program that will deliver on your expectations and reward you for your efforts.
• Establish a study plan for coursework and your exam. Prepare to pass your cert exam by sticking to an hourly, daily, or weekly study plan. You can use a physical planner or digital apps to keep track of your schedule.
• Take practice exams. To get a better understanding of what the exam will be like, take one or more practice exams. These can improve your test-taking skills and increase your confidence.

After you pass your exam and earn certification, be sure to keep your certification up to date. Doing so may allow you to accrue continuing education credits or pass another exam for a similar cert.

Next Steps

Looking to get certified in cybersecurity? Turn to WGU. We offer several valuable third-party certifications, including CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA CySA+. These certs and more are even included in the cost of a WGU cybersecurity and information assurance degree program.

In addition, WGU’s competency-based learning model lets you advance through coursework as quickly as you show mastery of the material, so you can potentially graduate faster and save money.

Learn more today.