News Feature | September 2, 2014

Top-Paying Certifications In IT

By Cheryl Knight, contributing writer

Top-Paying Certifications In IT

Global Knowledge released a special report, 15 Top-Paying Certifications for 2014. The report reveals the best-paying certifications for the IT field. The report is based on the 2014 IT Skills and Salary Survey conducted by Global Knowledge and Penton.

The top 5 certifications are listed below. To view the entire top 15 list, visit the complete survey results.

1. Certified in risk and information systems control (CRISC):

  • Offered by the non-profit group Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
  • Designed for IT professionals and project managers, the CRISC certification offers training on the identification and management of risk companies face by using information system (IS) controls.
  • Mean salary: $118,253.

2. Certified information security manager (CISM):

  • Offered by the non-profit group Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
  • Aimed at management as opposed to IT professionals, CISM certification focuses on assessing the security of various systems in regards to the managers who implement the policies using a vendor platform.
  • Mean salary: $114,844.

3. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA):

  • The oldest certificate created by ISACA.
  • The certificate is primarily for those who audit, monitor, control, and assess IT systems.
  • Mean salary: $112,040

4. Six Sigma Green Belt:

  • No single organization owns Six Sigma certification. Many companies offer this certification, so there is usually some variance between programs.
  • This certification helps individuals analyze defects and fix defects within a production process.
  • Mean salary: $109,165.

5. Project Management Professional (PMP):

  • Created and administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), it is one of the most recognized of the various certifications.
  • One of the most well-known project management certifications.
  • Mean salary: $108,525.

Separating From The Pack

Certification can only get you so far. With the increasing number of IT solutions providers out there who all offer the same services, setting yourself apart from the pack is important.

According to the BSM article, “You Probably Aren’t As Unique As You Think,” you need to find a way to truly stand out from other companies.