In the face of escalating global cyberthreats, the demand for cybersecurity professionals has skyrocketed. Research highlights a need for 3.4 million additional experts in this field. The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification, offered by the globally renowned ISC2, is a strategic response to this talent shortage, providing a streamlined entry into the cybersecurity industry.
The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification distinguishes itself in the cybersecurity credentialing landscape through several key differentiators, making it a unique and valuable asset for professionals seeking to enter or advance in this field.
THE BENEFITS OF THE ISC2 CC CERTIFICATION
Unparalleled Accessibility
Unique in its approach, the ISC2 CC certification requires no previous experience or formal education in cybersecurity. It’s designed to be inclusive, welcoming a wide array of candidates – from IT professionals and college students to career-changers and executives seeking foundational knowledge. This approach significantly broadens the potential talent pool in cybersecurity.
The Pathway to Cybersecurity Excellence
The CC certification serves as a crucial first step towards advanced cybersecurity knowledge and leadership roles. It equips entrants with essential skills in security principles, network security, and access controls, preparing them for success in entry-level positions and beyond.
Organizational Impact
For businesses, the ISC2 CC certification is a vital tool for developing skilled cybersecurity teams and narrowing the cybersecurity skills gap. It ensures that certified individuals are equipped with a solid understanding of fundamental cybersecurity concepts, enhancing the organization’s defense capabilities.
Vendor-Neutral Certification
One of the primary differentiators of the CC certification is its vendor-neutral nature. Unlike certifications that are tied to specific technologies or products, the CC certification focuses on broad, foundational cybersecurity principles and practices. This approach ensures that certified professionals possess a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity that is applicable across various technologies and platforms. It prepares them for a diverse range of challenges in the cybersecurity space, rather than limiting their expertise to a single vendor’s tools or solutions.
Accreditation and International Standards
The CC certification is distinguished by its adherence to and accreditation under prominent international standards, including ISO/IEC 17024, 17788, 17789, 27017, and 27018. These standards are critical in the cybersecurity field, as they represent best practices and guidelines for cloud security, data protection, and information security management. Accreditation under these standards signifies that the CC certification maintains a high level of rigor, relevance, and quality, aligning with global benchmarks in cybersecurity.
Continuing Professional Education
Another significant aspect of the CC certification is the requirement for certified professionals to engage in continuing professional education. This is a crucial requirement, given the fast-evolving nature of cyber threats, technologies, and regulations. By mandating ongoing education, the CC certification ensures that its holders stay current with emerging trends, threats, and best practices in cybersecurity. This commitment to continuous learning is vital for professionals to remain effective and relevant in their roles, as cybersecurity is a field characterized by rapid change and evolution.
ADVANTAGES OF THE CC CERTIFICATION
The CC certification not only elevates professional expertise in cybersecurity but also opens doors to a multitude of benefits. Here are the key advantages that CC certification holders experience:
- Gateway to Advanced Certifications: The CC credential serves as an excellent starting point for more advanced certifications like the CISSP, offering a progressive career path within cybersecurity.
- No Prior Experience Required: Candidates can take the CC exam without previous cybersecurity work experience or formal education, needing only a basic understanding of IT.
- Validation of Foundational Skills: Earning the CC certification demonstrates to employers that you possess the essential knowledge and skills for entry- or junior-level cybersecurity roles.
- Access to ISC2 Resources: Successful completion of the CC exam grants access to ISC2 membership benefits, including a vast library of professional development courses, webinars, thought leadership, networking opportunities, and more.
“I’m switching career paths to move into cybersecurity. Certified in Cybersecurity is a great way to demonstrate my knowledge.” – Eric Turner, Cybersecurity Analyst, First Merchants Bank, Daleville, IN
PATH TO CERTIFICATION
BECOME AN ISC2 CANDIDATE:
- Start by joining ISC2 as a candidate. Visit the ISC2 Candidate Page to register.
- As a candidate, you gain access to numerous benefits, including 20% off training and 30-50% off textbooks.
STUDY FOR THE EXAM:
- Utilize self-study resources available through ISC2 for thorough preparation.
- Consider attending an Official ISC2 Training for a comprehensive review and knowledge refreshment before the exam.
PASS THE EXAM:
Take and successfully pass the 100-item CC exam within the allotted time of two hours.
COMPLETE THE APPLICATION:
- After passing the exam, complete the ISC2 application process.
- Agree to fully support the ISC2 Code of Ethics Canons and adhere to the ISC2 Privacy Policy.
MAINTAIN MEMBERSHIP AND EARN CPE CREDITS:
- Once certified and a member of ISC2, maintain your certification by recertifying every three years.
- Recertification involves earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits and paying an annual maintenance fee to support your ongoing development.
OFFICIAL TRAINING OPTIONS
- Self-Paced Training + Exam (U.S. $0)
- Train independently with an engaging online learning experience.
- Includes the CC exam.
- First-year Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of U.S. $50 due after passing the exam.
- Self-Paced Training + Exam + Extras (U.S. $199)
- All features of the basic self-paced training.
- Bundle Extras:
– Two attempts to pass the exam
– 180-day access to course content
– No AMF for the first year
- Live Online Training + Exam + Extras (U.S. $804)
- Live sessions with an ISC2 Authorized Instructor combined with self-paced learning.
- Includes the CC exam.
- Bundle Extras:
– Two attempts to pass the exam
– 180-day access to course content
– No AMF for the first year
– Interactive learning in a live virtual classroom
– Peer discussions and instructor-led training
For more information and to explore these options, visit the ISC2 CC Training Bundles Page.
“I’m shifting careers from product management to information security. Certified in Cybersecurity gives me a starting point and a certificate I can showcase while I work toward earning the CISSP, which is far more complex and requires many months of preparation.” — Radhika Gopalan, Product Management Consultant, Alpharetta, GA
ABOUT ISC2
ISC2 is an international nonprofit membership association focused on inspiring a safe and secure cyber world. Best known for the acclaimed Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®) certification, ISC2 offers a portfolio of credentials that are part of a holistic, pragmatic approach to security. Our association of candidates, associates, and members, more than 500,000 strong, is made up of certified cyber, information, software, and infrastructure security professionals who are making a difference and helping to advance the industry. Our vision is supported by our commitment to educate and reach the general public through our charitable foundation – The Center for Cyber Safety and Education™.
For more information about CC certification and training, contact an Education Consultant in your region:
Americas | +1.866.331.4722 ext. 2 | Email: training@isc2.org
Europe, Middle East, and Africa | +44 203 960 7800 | Email: info-emea@isc2.org
Asia-Pacific | +852.5803.5662 | Email: isc2asia@isc2.org
