CDPSE vs. CISM

Attribute	CDPSE	CISM
Focus	Privacy and security governance	Information security management
Organization	ISACA	ISACA
Exam	One exam	One exam
Experience	5 years of experience in privacy and security	5 years of experience in information security
Domains	5 domains	5 domains

Overview

CDPSE (Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer) and CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) are two popular certifications in the field of information security. Both certifications are recognized globally and are designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals in the cybersecurity industry. While they have some similarities, there are also key differences between the two certifications that make them unique in their own right.

CDPSE

CDPSE is a relatively new certification offered by ISACA, a global association that focuses on IT governance. The CDPSE certification is designed for professionals who work in data privacy and security roles. It covers a wide range of topics related to data privacy, including data protection laws and regulations, data governance, data security, and data privacy management. The certification is ideal for professionals who are responsible for ensuring that organizations comply with data privacy laws and regulations.

CISM

CISM, on the other hand, is a certification offered by ISACA that focuses on information security management. The CISM certification is designed for professionals who work in information security management roles. It covers topics such as information security governance, risk management, information security program development, and incident management. The certification is ideal for professionals who are responsible for managing and overseeing an organization's information security program.

Exam Requirements

One of the key differences between CDPSE and CISM is the exam requirements. To obtain the CDPSE certification, candidates must pass a single exam that covers a wide range of topics related to data privacy and security. On the other hand, to obtain the CISM certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers four domains: Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.

Work Experience

Another difference between CDPSE and CISM is the work experience requirements. To qualify for the CDPSE certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of work experience in data privacy and security, with at least three years of experience in data privacy. In contrast, to qualify for the CISM certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of work experience in information security management, with at least three years of experience in information security management.

Job Roles

CDPSE and CISM are designed for professionals in different job roles within the cybersecurity industry. CDPSE is ideal for professionals who work in data privacy and security roles, such as data privacy officers, data protection officers, and data security analysts. On the other hand, CISM is ideal for professionals who work in information security management roles, such as information security managers, information security directors, and chief information security officers.

Salary Potential

One of the factors that professionals often consider when pursuing a certification is the potential increase in salary. According to the 2021 IT Skills and Salary Report published by Global Knowledge, professionals with the CDPSE certification have an average salary of $148,622, while professionals with the CISM certification have an average salary of $148,622. While both certifications offer competitive salaries, the salary potential may vary depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both CDPSE and CISM are valuable certifications for professionals in the cybersecurity industry. While they have some similarities, such as being offered by ISACA and being globally recognized, they also have key differences in terms of exam requirements, work experience requirements, job roles, and salary potential. Ultimately, the choice between CDPSE and CISM will depend on the individual's career goals, job role, and areas of interest within the field of information security.