Cybersecurity Architects

Certification or Licensing

Having at least one certification credential ranks as the second most-important attribute for cybersecurity professionals to possess (surpassed only by strong problem-solving abilities), according to the ISC2. Additionally, some employers require job applicants to be certified or be in the process of earning their certification. To become certified, applicants must complete coursework and pass an examination. Some certification programs require candidates to have a certain amount of work experience and/or a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. ISC2 offers several certification credentials to applicants who pass an examination and meet other requirements. Credentials include certified in cybersecurity (an entry-level credential), certified information systems security professional, systems security certified practitioner, and certified cloud security professional, among others. Other certification programs are provided by organizations such as CompTIA, EC-Council, GIAC, IEEE Computer Society, Information Systems Security Association, ISACA, and SANS Institute, as well as software vendors (including Microsoft, which offers a cybersecurity architect expert credential).

Other Requirements

Some employers—especially government agencies and the financial industry—may require job applicants to undergo background checks. Others may require applicants to be U.S. citizens.