
Are you ready to take your career to the next level and become the ultimate Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) guru? Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to upskill or a newcomer eager to dive headfirst into the world of risk and regulations, you’ve landed in the right corner of the internet.
Picture this: you, armed with the best GRC certification, confidently navigating the complex landscape of business ethics, data security, and regulatory compulsions. But you might get stumped trying to decide which GRC certification to choose in order to achieve this.
No need to worry. We’ve got you covered. This blog covers everything you need to help you decide which GRC certification to opt for in 2023. So, buckle up as we unravel the top GRC certifications to help you decide which one best fits your needs!
What Are GRC Certifications?
With the intensifying cyber threats and stringent compliance regulations, organizations are increasingly prioritizing GRC practices and certified GRC professionals to navigate the complexities of the digital world successfully. But what are GRC certifications? Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) a
re essentially licenses that are designed to validate an individual’s ability to manage and implement effective strategies for risk management, and governance, and ensure regulatory compliance with relevant authorities.
Importance of GRC Certifications
GRC certifications play a crucial role in providing professionals with specialized knowledge and skills, displaying their dedication and devotion to ethical and compliant practices. Below are some of the major reasons why GRC certifications are important for individuals as well as the digital ecosystem and how they contribute to both professional growth and organizational resilience.
Validation Of Expertise And Knowledge
Professional certifications are essential for validating that an individual possesses sufficient expertise and knowledge in the relevant subject matter. GRC certifications are no different. They equip individuals with extensive knowledge and skills in various domains such as risk management, compliance frameworks, information security, as well as, corporate governance.
The rigorous training and examination process involved in attaining the GRC certification showcases that professionals have a comprehensive understanding of the industry’s best practices, and regulatory obligations, in addition to the latest updates within the GRC field. It also demonstrates that certified professionals are proactive in risk management and can guide organizations to navigate complex regulatory and compliance challenges effectively.
Boost Career Prospects
Pursuing a GRC certification can be a great way to advance your career, whether you are just starting out in the GRC domain or are a seasoned professional.
The introduction of new technologies has led to rising cyber-security attacks and increasingly complex regulations, and the role of GRC analysts and professionals has become ever so important. As a result, employers are increasingly opting for certified GRC professionals as they view them as more suitable and updated in their field and prefer them for job advancement prospects.
Hence, acquiring a GRC certification may also give you a competitive edge against other applicants and help you navigate relatively easily through an otherwise crowded job market. It can help broaden your career prospects and give you the opportunity to access various other industries.
Demonstrating Professional Credibility And Skills
In today’s progressively competitive job market, employers often prefer candidates with professional certifications to validate their knowledge and skills, and simultaneously showcase their commitment to professional development. This is because they value the time and effort taken by an individual to acquire related skills.
Therefore, getting your hands on a GRC certification may improve your overall professional credibility and marketability.
Read more: Benefits of Getting IT Certifications
Best 10 GRC Certifications In 2023
With an array of GRC Certifications to choose from, it may be challenging to select one that best compliments your need and future prospects as well as industry requirements. But no need to worry, we have covered the 10 best GRC certifications in 2023 below to aid you in your journey of selecting the certification that best aligns with your needs.
1. Certified In Risk And Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Provided by ISACA, the Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification is targeted at individuals that want to be proficient in risk management within the IT space. The certification is widely recognized in the tech space and can help individuals demonstrate their expertise in identifying, mitigating, and managing IT-related business risks as well as putting adequate procedures in place to control them.
Exam Format
The CRISC is a multiple-choice exam, consisting of 150 questions.
Domains Tested
To earn the CRISC certification, candidates must pass the CRISC exam and demonstrate at least three years of cumulative work experience in at least three of the four CRISC domains:
- Governance (26%)
- IT Risk Assessment (20%)
- Risk Response and Reporting (32%)
- Information Technology and Security (22%)
In addition, a CRISC Certified Professional can earn up to $142,000 salary on average.
Read more: CRISC Certifications Importance in 2023
2. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is also another certification provided by ISACA. It is a globally recognized certification, validating that its holders are proficient in areas of Information systems audit, control, and the monitoring and assessment of an organization’s IT and business systems.
It also demonstrates that you are proactive in managing the risk faced by an organization and have adequate skills to find vulnerabilities within the system and report on any compliance-related issues.
CISA certification by ISACA does have prerequisites including having 5 years’ worth of experience in professional IS auditing, control, assurance, or a security-related position. However, relevant substitutions and waivers can be obtained.
Exam Format
For the CISA certification, candidates need to complete a multiple-choice exam, consisting of 150 questions in total.
Domains Tested
- Information Systems Auditing Process (21%)
- Governance and Management of IT (17%)
- Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation (12%)
- Information Systems Operation and Business Resilience (23%)
- Protection of Information Assets (27%)
The average annual salary for a CISA-certified professional in the United States is around $102,000.
Read more: CISA vs CISM: Which is best options
3. Certified Compliance And Ethics Professional (CCEP)
Offered by the Society of Corporate Compliance And Ethics, Certified Compliance And Ethics Professional (CCEP) is targeted at compliance professionals.
The CCEP certification also has eligibility criteria that require applicants to have a minimum of 3 years of professional work experience with more than half of the time being allotted to compliance and ethics activities.
Exam Format
As for the exam format, the CCEP is also a multiple-choice exam consisting of around 125 questions.
Domains Tested
- Standards, Policies, and Procedures
- Compliance and Ethics Program Administration
- Communication, Education, and Training
- Monitoring, Auditing, and Internal Reporting Systems
- Investigation And Response, Discipline and Incentives
- Risk Assessment
The annual average salary of a CCEP professional can be as much as $146,000
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Also provided by ISACA, the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is for professionals managing enterprise information security programs and processes, including risk management. It is an advanced certification, ideal for individuals who have some prior knowledge and experience in an enterprise’s information security management.
This ISACA has similar prerequisites of having at least 5 years of prior experience in the information security field. It also has a total of 150 questions presented in the form of multiple choice, with passing marks of 450 out of 800.
Domains Tested:
The CISM certification exam tests a variety of topics related to the following main domains:
- Information Security Governance
- Information Risk Management
- Information Security Program Development and Management
- Information Security Incident Management
The average annual salary of a CISM-certified professional in the United States is estimated to be $102,000. .
Read more: CISSP vs CISM Which is right for you
5. Project Management Institute's Risk Management Professional Certification (PMI-RMP)
Widely recognized in the tech space, Project Management Institute’s Risk Management Professional Certification (PMI-RMP) is ideal for professionals who already have abundant knowledge and experience in the field of IS risk management or have been working in the role of a project manager assessing and managing the risks related to it.
The exam has a total of 170 questions that are all multiple-choice.
Domains Tested:
The exam covers 5 major domains:
- Risk Strategy and Planning
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Risk Process Facilitation
- Risk Monitoring and Reporting
- Specialized Risk Analyses
The average annual salary for a PMI-RMP certified professional is estimated to be around 120k.
Read more: 7 Topmost Project Management Certifications
6. CGEIT: Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT
The Certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), also offered by ISACA, is a widely recognized professional certification targeted at individuals interested in or working in the governance and management of enterprise IT.
The CGEIT certification is ideal for professionals having relevant management, advisory, or assurance role that relate to the governance of enterprise IT. According to ISACA, individuals who earn the CGEIT certification carry the potential to receive a 22% pay increase.
The CGEIT demonstrates the certification holder’s ability to understand and align IT with business goals, manage IT investments, and implement effective IT governance practices. The certification is relevant for IT and business professionals, including IT managers, business analysts, risk professionals, and auditors, among others.
In order to be eligible for the CGEIT certification, applicants must have at least five years of work experience in enterprise IT management, of which at least three years must be in three or more of the CGEIT domains. However, there are waivers available for a maximum of two years of work experience, depending on the education and experience of the candidate
Exam Format:
The CGEIT exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that need to be completed within 4 hours.
The exam is available in English, Chinese Simplified, French, Korean, Spanish, and Turkish.
Domains Tested:
The CGEIT exam covers four domains that encompass various aspects of enterprise IT governance:
Domain 1: Framework for the Governance of Enterprise IT (25%)
Domain 2: Strategic Management (20%)
Domain 3: Benefits Realization (16%)
Domain 4: Risk Optimization (24%)
Domain 5: Resource Optimization (15%)
The annual average salary for a CGEIT-certified professional is around $117,544.
Read more: Are GIAC Certifications Worth it
7. CGRC: Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance
The Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (CGRC) certification is a vendor-neutral credential that is offered by (ISC)². It demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in identifying and managing risks, implementing compliance regulations, and ensuring an organization’s policies and objectives are met.
CGRC certification is widely accepted by employers around the world looking for professionals that can identify and mitigate risks, help organizations be legally compliant, and help them maintain a strong reputation.
Exam Format:
Candidates are expected to complete 125 multiple-choice questions.
Domains Tested:
The CGRC certification tests seven key domains:
- Information Security Risk Management Program
- Categorization of Information Systems (IS)
- Selection of Security Controls
- Implementation of Security Controls
- Assessment of Security Controls
- Authorization of Information Systems (IS)
- Continuous Monitoring
A CGRC Certified professional can earn up to an annual average salary of $220,480.
Read more: GCIH Certification Guide
8. Six Sigma Black Belt
The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) certification is another popular professional credential that signifies a high level of expertise in the Six Sigma methodology, which is focused on process improvement and quality management. The CSSBB certification is typically offered by organizations or institutions that specialize in Six Sigma training and certification, such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).
Achieving the CSSBB certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in process improvement and quality management, making certified individuals valuable assets to organizations seeking to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Exam Format
Candidates must complete 150 multiple-choice questions in a four-hour timeframe.
Domains Tested
The CSSBB certification exam typically covers a comprehensive body of knowledge that includes various aspects of Six Sigma methodology, including but not limited to:
Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control (DMAIC) methodology
Statistical tools, and techniques
Process improvement methodologies
Project management in the context of Six Sigma
Data collection and analysis
Lean principles and tools
Design of experiments (DOE)
Control charts and process capability analysis
As per an ASQ salary survey, a Six Sigma Black Belt Certified Professional’s Salary is around $106K per year
9. ITIL Expert
The ITIL v3 Expert certification is a qualification within the ITIL certification scheme that ranges from basic to master level. The expert certification focuses on an in-depth understanding of ITIL practices and their implementation.
In order to achieve this certification, applicants need to get their ITIL foundation certification first. They are then required to acquire at least 17 credits as per the ITIL Credit System. This is then supposed to be followed by passing the Managing Across the Lifecycle (MALC) exam at the end.
Exam Format
ITIL Expert candidates are expected to complete a 40 multiple choice questions exam in a time period of 60 minutes.
Domains Tested
The ITIL v3 Expert certification exam tests the ITIL framework which is divided into five broad stages or categories:
- Service Strategy
- Service Design
- Service Transition
- Service Operation
- Continual Service Improvement
The average annual salary for an ITIL Expert Certified individual is about $102,842.
10. GRC Professional Certification
The GRC Professional Certification is a popular certification offered by OCEG. The GRC Professional (GRCP) certification demonstrates that an individual can understand and apply GRC in any organization. It also validates that a professional has the skills to integrate and advise on governance, strategy, ethics, compliance, and security activities.
Exam Format
Candidates need to complete 100 multiple-choice questions in a two-hour time span.
Domains Tested
- Basic GRC Introduction (15%)
- Understanding GRC Capability Model Components (85%)
The annual average salary for GRC Professional Certification holders is around $132,840.
Read more: CGEIT Certification Exam Guide
GRC Certifications Cost
GRC Certification | Exam Cost |
Certified In Risk And Information Systems Control (CRISC) | |
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) | |
Certified Compliance And Ethics Professional (CCEP) | |
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | |
Project Management Institute's Risk Management Professional Certification (PMI-RMP) | |
CGEIT: Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT | |
CGRC: Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance | $599.00 (Members) |
Final Thoughts
GRC professionals are finding themselves in high demand to help mitigate risks, build trust, and lay the ground for the long-term success and growth of businesses. And GRC certifications are pivotal instruments in ensuring your job and retention opportunities, advancement prospects, and constant professional development within this field.
With this rising demand for certified GRC professionals, it is best to equip yourself with the best GRC certification for sustainable success. We hope the information above has helped you recognize which GRC certification best aligns with your interests and career plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Is a GRC Certification worth it?
Like any other professional certification, a GRC can be valuable to an individual for a number of reasons. They can help stand out amongst other applicants when applying for a new job or improve the career prospects of individuals looking to advance their careers. A GRC certification helps validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in relation to governance, risk, and compliance within the tech space and can prove vital in improving marketability and showcasing determinations toward continuous professional development.
Are there any Exam Dumps available for these certifications?
Yes, to aid your exam preparation process, Dumpsgate has all the relevant exam dumps available for your selected course. It has pdf exam dumps ensuring portability and has 100% authentic exam questions. It is also reasonably priced and you can even negotiate the price if you’re unable to easily afford the resource you need.
What do you earn as a GRC Manager/Analyst?
According to Glassdoor, the estimated average salary of a GRC consultant in the United States is $81,517 per year.
How to start a career in GRC?
If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree yet, it may be wise to opt for a computer science degree or pursue one in Information Technology (IT), or Information Systems Management. In addition, acquiring a GRC certification might also give you a push in the right direction.
Does GRC require coding?
No, there is no coding involved in pursuing a GRC career. However, having a general idea and basics may give you an edge when starting your career.