CISA vs CISM - Which is better

Sophia Ellis 20 May 2023

Are you trying to select the right certification for you? Read this blog on CISA vs CISM to learn all about the two, their differences, similarities and more.

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CISA vs CISM - Which is better

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Are you still confused about choosing between CISA vs CISM? These certifications, offered by ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association), are globally recognised and highly valued by professionals seeking to enhance their expertise and credibility in the domain.

Both (Certified Information Systems Auditor) CISA and (Certified Information Security Manager) CISM provide distinct perspectives and skill sets, making them indispensable for individuals aspiring to excel in different aspects of Information Security and governance. A CISM certification will assist you with risk assessment, governance implementation, and incident response. The two most well-known certifications in Information Security are the CISA and CISM certifications. Continue reading this blog to discover the differences between CISA and CISM.

Table of Contents

1) All about CISA

2) All about CISM

3) CISA vs CISM- key differences

4) Similarities between CISA and CISM

5) CISA or CISM: Which is better?

6) Conclusion

All about CISA

ISACA offers the CISA, a credential that is widely regarded. Professionals that execute information systems auditing, control, and assurance are eligible for the CISA certification. A CISA certification verifies a person's proficiency in identifying vulnerabilities, putting controls in place, and conducting information system audits for an organisation.

the benefits of becoming CISA Certified

The skills of CISA experts include the capacity to recognise and control business and IT risks as well as to guarantee the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of information sources. Employers seeking to hire professionals with CISA certification pay major importance to technical skills and abilities to deal with challenges that current day businesses are facing.

All about CISM

In the subject of information security management, the CISM certification offered by ISACA is a widely regarded professional credential. A person's proficiency in creating and administering an information security programme, encompassing governance, risk management, incident management, and programme management, is validated by the certification.

To become CISM certified a candidate must fulfil certain requirements, including having relevant work experience in Information Security Management and passing the CISM exam, to obtain the CISM certification.

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CISA vs CISM- key differences

CISA and CISM are two popular certifications in the field of information security and audit. Let’s discuss the main differences between CISA and CISM:

S.No.	CISA	CISM
1	CISA certification holders primarily focus on auditing computer systems and ensuring a high level of security	CISM certification holders typically have oversight of multiple departments and employees within an organisation
2	They typically identify security risks, recommend modifications to reduce those risks, and produce compliance reports.	Holders of the CISM certification oversee handling employee change requests and enacting new regulations.
3	Candidates for CISA generally resolve possible problems using a solution-oriented approach.	CISM certification holders deal with huge budgets, and they directly work with senior management to resolve any problems.
4	They mainly evaluate current compliance with regulations and suggest improvements to improve compliance.	They have the power to enforce changes inside an organisation, including new rules, laws, or sanctions.
5	The CISA places a strong emphasis on abilities in information system assurance, control evaluation, and auditing.	The focus of CISM is on managerial and strategic information security skills. It includes risk management, the creation of security programmes, incident response, and the coordination of security activities with organisational goals.
6	Professionals involved in IT auditing, such as internal auditors, external auditors, and compliance officers, frequently seek CISA certification.	Professionals involved in information security management, such as information security managers, IT consultants, and security auditors, are the target audience for CISM.
7	This certification is particularly made for IT audit professionals.	It is designed for Information Security Managers.
8	Includes auditing, controlling, monitoring and assessing business systems.	Includes developing essential skills to handle enterprise security technology.
9	Every five years, CISA holders need to renew their certification by providing proof of 40 hours of continuing education and completing a new application.	Every three years, CISM holders must renew their certification by providing proof of 40 hours of continuing education and completing a new application.
10	It is monitored and controlled by ISACA.	It is recognised by the International Board of Standards and Practices for Information Security Management Board.

Similarities between CISA and CISM

CISA and CISM are two such Information Security courses which develop different skillsets but share a few similarities too, which include:

a) The industry holds the CISA and CISM certificates in high respect as proof of a professional's proficiency in the field of information security. They are widely regarded as evidence of a person's expertise and abilities by employers, clients, and colleagues.

b) The foundation of both CISA and CISM certifications are a set of global standards and best practices. Candidates must be well-versed in industry frameworks like Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT), ISO 27001 (Information Security Management System), and other relevant standards.

c) Both certifications have the potential to considerably boost job options and advancement in the information security industry. While CISM is directed towards information security management and governance, CISA is mainly concentrated on the auditing and assurance of information systems. But having either qualification can give you access to jobs as an IT auditor, manager of information security, risk analyst, or consultant.

d) You need to have at least five years of professional experience in Information Security or professional information systems auditing, control, or security to be certified as a CISM or CISA.

e) No matter where a professional is located, their proficiency in the field of Information Security can be attested to by their CISA or CISM certifications, which are acknowledged globally. Professionals can explore employment prospects across nations and organisations with the help of this global recognition.

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CISA or CISM: Which is better?

Several criteria, including career goals, job responsibilities, and personal preferences, determine which certification, either CISA or CISM is preferable. Both offer the best job practices along with universal security principles. Both credentials have unique advantages and are appropriate for various career paths. The CISA programme is the best choice for people interested in IT auditing, compliance, risk management, or governance roles because it focuses on auditing, control, and assurance of information systems.

common job roles for CISA and CISM certification holders

On the contrary, the focus of CISM is on Information Security management, governance, and strategy, which is advantageous for people hoping to lead and manage information security operations within organisations. The best certification ultimately relies on a person's career choices and aspirations, whether it's CISA vs CISM or CISM or CRISC.

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Conclusion

We hope this blog helps you to get an understanding of CISA vs CISM. When choosing between either of the two, it is very important to recognise that they cater to different career paths within the realm of information security. CISA focuses on auditing and assurance of information systems, while CISM emphasises information security management and governance. The "better" certification depends on your specific career goals, job responsibilities, and personal interests. Gaining these certifications will enhance your expertise in the ever-evolving field of Information Security.

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