Any organization that handles sensitive information can leverage a GRC approach to manage data security risks and mitigate data breaches. GRC certifications demonstrate proficiency in meeting the specific governance, risk management, and compliance requirements that will safeguard your digital assets. Read on to learn more.
Breaking Down the Roadmap to GRC Certification
When looking to reap the full benefits of a governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) approach to cybersecurity, a GRC certification can help.
In this blog, we’ll break down:
- The definition of a GRC certification
- The various types of GRC certifications
- Why you might need a GRC professional certification
- How to get GRC certified
- The benefits of GRC certs
Working with a GRC services provider will help create a unique roadmap to GRC certification and guide you on best practices along this journey.
What is a GRC Certification?
A GRC certification demonstrates a GRC practitioner’s proficiency in implementing governance, risk management, and compliance processes. An individual becomes GRC-certified after receiving a certain amount of training for the specific discipline where GRC requirements apply.
For instance, individuals may receive GRC certifications in roles such as:
- Cybersecurity control management
- Security analysis
- IT auditing
- Information security risk management
A GRC certification contributes to one’s professional growth and supports an organization in meeting the needs of a specific area (e.g., IT risk management).
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Different GRC Certifications
In general, GRC certifications vary by industry, location, and even the specific needs within an organization’s departments. Examples of GRC certifications include:
- The Governance, Risk, and Compliance Professional (GRCP) Certification is widely recognized for enabling GRC practitioners to effectively manage aspects of GRC with a versatile approach.
- The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certification enables security professionals to develop, implement, and oversee a robust cybersecurity program.
- The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) Certification helps professionals in high-impact leadership positions to manage their teams based on the Six Sigma philosophies and principles.
- The Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) Certification develops an IT professional’s governance skills and prepares the individual to handle executive-level decision-making.
- The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) Certification keeps IT professionals trained on the latest best practices for IT risk management and empowers them to effectively manage real-world information security risks.
- The Project Management Institute’s Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) Certification is essential for project managers looking to enhance their risk management skills at the enterprise level.
Each GRC certification provides a practitioner with the required skills to navigate complex challenges, especially those that could significantly impact your organization’s operations.
Why Get a GRC Certification
Obtaining a GRC certification is critical to increasing a practitioner’s knowledge of governance, risk management, and compliance best practices.
Many GRC certifications also provide updated training modules as refreshers to enable professionals to remain abreast of changes within their focus areas.
A GRC certification also instills confidence in stakeholders like customers and partners about your commitment to optimizing your GRC program with the knowledge gained from specific certifications.
How to Get GRC Certified
The process to become GRC certified will likely depend on the specific GRC certification you are looking to obtain. In general, you will need to prepare for the exam required by the GRC certification body by studying relevant material provided by that body, often on their website.
Depending on the GRC certification, you may choose to take the exam corresponding to your desired certification level. For instance, some GRC certs offer professionals the option to test at the beginner, intermediate, or advanced level of practice.
A passing grade will then get you GRC certified.
GRC Certification Cost
The cost of becoming GRC-certified will also vary based on the specific GRC certification you are looking to obtain. For instance, the cost of the GRC Professional Certification (GRCP) may cost anywhere from about $400 to $1750 per year, depending on the type of license you obtain.
On the other hand, the exam fee for a PMI-RMP Certification ranges from $520 to $670, depending on the practitioner’s membership with the Project Management Institute.
Preparing for the GRC Certification Exam
Preparation for the GRC certification exam may involve studying the principles, best practices, and other core materials relevant to the particular GRC area in which you’d like to become certified. Some certifications may require you to take the certification exam in-person, whereas others may offer it online or provide flexible options. In either case, it is important to prepare based on the specific GRC cert you are interested in obtaining.
Is GRC Certification Worth It?
Yes, GRC certification is worth it.
As a professional looking to expand your skills and capabilities and effectively implement governance, risk management, and compliance, a GRC certification will position you to achieve these objectives strategically.
Look to RSI Security for Help With GRC
Regardless of your industry or desired GRC implementation, RSI Security can guide you on the best GRC certifications that will match your current and anticipated cybersecurity needs. With extensive experience providing services for GRC, our team of specialists will help you fully optimize your GRC program. Contact RSI Security today to learn more.
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