ISACA’s newest credential aims to help those with 2-3 years of experience in the cybersecurity field accelerate their career advancement.
The Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst (CCOA) addresses a key gap in the market for a security practitioner who is more than entry level, but not yet at the management stage of their career. For example, ISACA’s Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential requires five years of professional experience.
“It can be difficult to gain the technical skills and experience needed to be considered qualified for many of the security roles that employers are looking for,” said John Flanagan, product manager, ISACA. “CCOA equips early-career security practitioners with a credential that will immediately expand the job opportunities available to them and keep their career momentum surging forward until they accumulate the years of experience required for more senior roles.”
The globally validated, skills-based training as part of CCOA includes hands-on labs and provides learners exposure to the latest software and tools professionals use in the job roles for which CCOA prepares learners (more on that below). Additionally, exam-passers will earn a one-year education waiver toward obtaining the CISM credential.
The beta program for CCOA is now underway. Here are a few common questions and answers regarding the newest credential from ISACA, creators of the CISM and several other industry-leading certifications.
Who should get CCOA certified?
Cybersecurity professionals with 2-3 years of experience looking to enhance their technical skill set and address cybersecurity challenges more effectively. CCOA is an especially valuable credential for early-career security professionals looking to one day attain their CISM.
Why should you get a CCOA credential?
Upward mobility in cybersecurity can be a challenge for those without practical experience. CCOA enables certification earners to demonstrate that they can analyze, detect and respond to threats effectively. Through practical exercises and strategic approaches to ensuring confidentiality and integrity in information systems, professionals who earn a CCOA validate that they have essential cybersecurity skills and knowledge, helping them excel in cybersecurity roles and advance their careers.
What is industry growth potential?
A well-documented shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals remains a challenge globally, and according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to increase by more than 35% in the next decade.
CCOA certification positions security practitioners to attain several popular roles in the security field, including:
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Information security analyst
- SOC analyst
- Vulnerability analyst
- Incident response analyst
Editor’s note: Participants in the CCOA beta program will have access to the newest credential from ISACA® before the full launch and can take advantage of deeply discounted pricing. Find out more here.