12 Professional Certifications Required by Industry

8. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

CISA is an industry-recognized credential for IT audit, control, and assurance roles and is frequently listed for GRC and audit positions. To earn CISA, candidates pass a comprehensive exam and hold at least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security, with some substitutions allowed. The exam focuses on audit process, governance, information systems acquisition, and protection. Candidates usually prepare with formal review courses and practice exams over several months. ISACA sets the certification rules, exam windows, and fees; ongoing continuing professional education (CPE) is required to maintain certification. Employers value CISA for internal controls, compliance, and audit leadership roles across finance, healthcare, and technology organizations. Next steps: check ISACA for exam dates, assess experience gaps, and enroll in a recognized review program. Source: ISACA (https://www.isaca.org). Suggested image and alt text: Auditor reviewing reports; alt text: "IT auditor examining compliance reports on a laptop."