CGRC Vs CISA: Salaries, Roles, Other Key Differences

Certifications have become essential for professionals looking to validate their expertise, stay competitive, and open up new career opportunities. Two of the most respected certifications in this field are CGRC (Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance) and CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor).

These credentials are designed for professionals working in information systems security, risk management, and compliance, but they focus on different areas within these domains.

This article will compare CGRC vs CISA, offering insights into their differences in terms of certification focus, cost, salary potential, and career benefits. Additionally, we’ll explore how they measure up against CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control), another key certification in the industry.

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CGRC Vs CISA: Comparison Table

Feature	CGRC (Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance)	CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)	CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control)
Focus Area	Governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance	IT auditing, information systems security, and controls	Risk management and information systems controls
Target Audience	Professionals in GRC roles, especially in compliance-heavy industries (e.g., government, finance, healthcare)	IT auditors, security analysts, compliance officers	Risk management professionals, particularly in IT systems and controls
Key Domains Covered	Risk management, security control selection, regulatory compliance, governance frameworks	Information systems auditing, risk management, security control	Risk identification, assessment, control design, and mitigation
Experience Requirements	2 years of work experience in one or more CGRC domains	5 years of work experience in IT auditing, control, or security	3 years of work experience in risk management or information systems control
Exam Format	125 multiple-choice questions across 7 domains	150 multiple-choice questions across 5 domains	150 multiple-choice questions across 4 domains
Average Salary	$124,610 annually	$149,000 annually	$130,000 annually
Certification Cost	$599 exam fee; additional costs for study materials and courses	$575 (ISACA members) / $760 (non-members) exam fee	$575 exam fee; additional costs for study resources and training
Prerequisite	2 years of hands-on experience; can become an Associate if experience is lacking	5 years of work experience (with waivers available)	3 years of work experience in risk management or IT systems
Primary Job Roles	GRC Manager, Compliance Officer, Risk Analyst, Regulatory Affairs	IT Auditor, Information Security Analyst, IT Risk Manager	Risk Manager, IT Systems Control Expert, Risk Analyst
Industry Relevance	Highly relevant for compliance and regulatory-heavy sectors	Widely recognized in IT auditing, financial sectors, and tech companies	Relevant for organizations focusing on risk management in IT systems

RELATED ARTICLE: CGRC Vs CRISC: Salaries, Job Roles, Advantages & Disadvantages

What is CGRC Certification?

The Certified in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (CGRC) certification is a globally recognized credential designed for professionals who specialize in the critical areas of governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance. 

The certification, offered by (ISC)², serves as a benchmark for professionals responsible for managing and mitigating risks in an organization’s information systems and ensuring that they comply with necessary regulations.

Initially known as the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP), the CGRC certification has evolved to meet the growing need for skilled experts in the ever-complex world of governance, risk, and compliance. 

It is particularly significant for professionals working with U.S. government agencies, especially those involved with the Department of Defense (DoD). The CGRC certification aligns with DoD Directive 8570, which sets the standard for cybersecurity roles within federal agencies.

For private-sector professionals, CGRC offers a way to demonstrate expertise in aligning business goals with risk management and compliance protocols. As organizations increasingly focus on cybersecurity, privacy laws, and risk management, the CGRC certification helps professionals remain up-to-date with the latest trends and regulatory changes in these fields.

READ MORE: How Much Does a GRC Analyst Make

What is CISA Certification?

The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, offered by ISACA, is one of the most prestigious credentials in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security. CISA is designed for professionals who regularly assess and audit an organization’s IT systems, ensuring they are secure, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals. 

This certification is a gold standard for those looking to demonstrate their expertise in IT auditing, governance, and risk management.

CISA has been around since 1978 and has evolved over the years to address the growing complexities of IT security, governance, and regulatory compliance. It’s particularly valuable for professionals in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, where strong internal controls and risk management are crucial.

For those pursuing a career in IT auditing or security, the CISA certification validates expertise in areas such as evaluating the effectiveness of information systems, risk management, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of controls. 

CISA holders are highly sought after in industries looking for professionals who can safeguard their data and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

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Key Differences Between CGRC and CISA

While both CGRC and CISA certifications focus on risk management, compliance, and governance, their areas of emphasis, exam content, and job roles differ significantly. Here are the main distinctions:

Focus Areas

• CGRC: The CGRC certification is specifically designed for professionals working in the governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) domains. It emphasizes understanding and implementing risk management strategies, regulatory compliance, and aligning business goals with security policies. CGRC is more focused on governance within the context of information systems security, often relevant to professionals in government roles or private organizations dealing with regulatory frameworks.
  
• CISA: CISA focuses more broadly on information systems auditing. It covers the full spectrum of auditing, from assessing the effectiveness of controls and risk management practices to ensuring that an organization’s IT systems comply with internal and external regulations. CISA-certified professionals are experts in auditing, control, and governance, which is essential in a wide range of industries like finance, healthcare, and tech.

Exam Content

• CGRC Exam: The CGRC exam spans seven domains, including information security risk management, system scope, security control selection, and continuous monitoring. The focus is on how organizations manage risks in alignment with compliance and regulatory frameworks.
  
• CISA Exam: The CISA exam covers five main domains: Information Systems Auditing Process, Governance and Management of IT, Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation, Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience, and Protection of Information Assets. The exam is more audit-oriented and less focused on regulatory compliance compared to CGRC.

Job Roles

• CGRC: Typically, CGRC-certified professionals work in compliance, risk management, or governance roles, particularly within industries that are heavily regulated, such as government, finance, and healthcare. They may work as GRC managers, compliance officers, or risk analysts.
  
• CISA: CISA-certified professionals are often employed as IT auditors, security analysts, or compliance specialists. They are responsible for evaluating and ensuring that an organization’s IT systems are well-governed, secure, and in compliance with internal policies and external regulations.

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Salary Comparison: CGRC vs CISA

When choosing between CGRC and CISA, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary potential associated with each certification. Both certifications offer significant earning potential, but the average salaries for certified professionals in each field can vary.

CISA Salary

The CISA certification is highly regarded in the field of IT auditing, governance, and risk management. According to recent industry data, professionals with a CISA certification can expect to earn an average salary of around $149,000 per year. 

The high demand for skilled IT auditors and professionals who can manage and assess an organization’s information systems security contributes to the lucrative salary that CISA-certified individuals command. 

With increasing threats to information security, companies are willing to pay a premium for professionals who can ensure compliance and implement effective security measures.

CGRC Salary

CGRC-certified professionals, who specialize in governance, risk management, and compliance, also enjoy competitive salaries. On average, CGRC-certified individuals earn around $124,610 annually. 

While this is slightly lower than CISA-certified professionals, the CGRC certification still offers a significant earning potential, especially within the public sector or organizations dealing with complex regulatory frameworks. 

The CGRC certification is highly valued by organizations looking to improve their risk management processes and ensure compliance with various regulations, making it a highly sought-after qualification.

Factors Affecting Salary

• Experience: Like any other certification, the salary potential for both CGRC and CISA holders increases with years of experience. Professionals who accumulate experience in the field can command higher salaries.
  
• Location: Geographic location plays a major role in salary variations. For instance, professionals in major cities or regions with a high demand for cybersecurity and compliance professionals, like Washington D.C. or Silicon Valley, may see higher salary offers.
  
• Industry: Professionals working in highly regulated industries, such as healthcare, government, and finance, may have higher earning potential, especially in roles that involve overseeing critical systems or regulatory compliance.

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Cost Comparison: CGRC vs CISA

When deciding between obtaining a CGRC or CISA certification, it’s important to consider not only the potential salary benefits but also the costs associated with earning each certification. These costs can vary significantly, from exam fees to preparation materials and training resources.

CISA Cost

For CISA certification, the exam fees are based on your membership status with ISACA:

• ISACA Members: $575
  
• Non-Members: $760

In addition to the exam fees, there are other costs that candidates may incur when preparing for the CISA exam:

• Study Materials: Official CISA study guides and practice exams can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the format (printed or eBook).
  
• Training Courses: ISACA offers various options for training, including self-paced study materials and instructor-led courses. Prices for these can range from $299 for self-paced options to $1,000 or more for instructor-led training.
  
• Maintenance Fees: To maintain CISA certification, you must earn 20 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits annually, with a renewal fee of $45 for ISACA members or $85 for non-members.

CGRC Cost

For CGRC certification, the costs are slightly more varied, depending on how you choose to prepare:

• Exam Fee: The CGRC exam itself typically costs around $599, although this may vary depending on the region or any promotions available.
  
• Study Materials: CGRC candidates can expect to pay for study guides, practice exams, and other resources, which may cost between $150 and $300.
  
• Training Courses: Similar to CISA, CGRC offers several options for preparatory courses. Training can be done through online courses or in-person workshops, and prices typically range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the level of instruction.
  
• Maintenance Fees: Like CISA, CGRC-certified professionals must earn CPE credits to maintain their certification. The specifics of CPE requirements for CGRC may vary, so it’s essential to stay up to date with (ISC)²’s guidelines.

Total Cost Considerations

• CGRC: Candidates may incur higher initial training costs due to the specialized nature of the certification, but the overall costs remain relatively close to those of CISA. It’s crucial to account for ongoing CPE requirements, as they will influence long-term costs.
  
• CISA: The certification has lower upfront costs for the exam itself, but additional expenses for study materials and ongoing CPE requirements may add to the overall investment.

READ: Can You Get into Cybersecurity with a Computer Science Degree?

CGRC Vs CISA​: Prerequisites and Requirements

When deciding between CGRC and CISA, understanding the prerequisites and requirements for each certification is essential. These certifications require different levels of work experience and preparation, ensuring that only qualified individuals can achieve the respective credentials. Here’s a breakdown of what each certification demands from candidates.

CGRC Prerequisites

To become CGRC certified, candidates must meet specific requirements that ensure they have practical experience in the field. Here’s what’s required:

• Work Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of two years of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the CGRC Common Body of Knowledge (CBK), which include risk management, system scope, security control selection, and continuous monitoring.
  
• Exam: Candidates must pass the CGRC exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1,000 points. The exam assesses knowledge across multiple domains related to risk and regulatory compliance.
  
• Associate Option: If candidates do not have the required work experience, they can still take the exam and become an Associate of (ISC)². As an Associate, they have up to three years to gain the necessary practical experience to qualify for full CGRC certification.

CISA Prerequisites

The CISA certification has more demanding requirements, particularly in terms of work experience:

• Work Experience: Candidates must have at least five years of work experience in information systems auditing, control, or security. However, some exceptions allow for up to three years of experience to be waived based on educational qualifications or other professional certifications.
  
• Exam: The CISA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions across five domains, including auditing, governance, risk management, and security. A passing score of 450 or higher is required to achieve certification.
  
• Professional Code of Ethics: CISA candidates must adhere to a professional code of ethics set by ISACA, which emphasizes objectivity, confidentiality, and integrity in their work.

Differences in Experience Requirements

• CGRC: With just two years of work experience required, CGRC offers a more accessible entry point for professionals who have been in the risk management or compliance field for a couple of years. The flexible associate option also makes it easier for those without experience to start working toward the certification.
  
• CISA: In contrast, CISA’s five years of work experience requirement makes it a more advanced certification, often suited for professionals with more experience in IT auditing or security roles.

ALSO: SOC for Cybersecurity Vs SOC 2​: A Complete Analysis

Which Certification is Right for You?

Choosing between CGRC and CISA depends largely on your career goals, current experience, and the specific areas of expertise you wish to develop. Both certifications offer valuable opportunities, but they cater to slightly different professional paths. Let’s break down which certification might be more suitable for different career objectives.

Target Audience

• CGRC: The CGRC certification is best suited for professionals working in governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) roles. If you are already working in risk management, compliance, or regulatory environments, or if you aim to enter government positions (especially in the U.S.), CGRC would be a good fit. The certification aligns well with those in industries that are heavily regulated, like finance, healthcare, and government.
  
  CGRC is particularly useful for professionals managing information systems and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. It is also an excellent certification for those who work in positions that involve overseeing risk management practices and aligning business operations with security regulations.
  
• CISA: On the other hand, CISA is ideal for professionals interested in IT auditing, security, and systems control. If your primary interest is auditing and evaluating an organization’s information systems for compliance, CISA is the way to go. It’s also a great choice if you want to focus on the technical side of IT governance and risk management.
  
  CISA is best for those pursuing roles like IT auditors, information security analysts, and compliance managers, where the primary responsibility is to audit, evaluate, and ensure the integrity of information systems and data. This certification is highly sought after in industries like banking, finance, and consulting.

Career Advancement

• CGRC: CGRC-certified professionals can expect to work in risk management, regulatory compliance, and governance roles. The certification is especially beneficial for those pursuing careers in the public sector or large corporations where adherence to regulations and standards is critical. CGRC can be a stepping stone for individuals looking to advance into senior compliance or risk management positions.
  
• CISA: CISA opens up a variety of career paths, with significant opportunities in IT auditing, information security, and governance. This certification is widely recognized in organizations that require auditing expertise to ensure the protection of critical systems and compliance with legal standards. CISA-certified professionals can expect to advance into roles such as IT audit managers, information security managers, or even chief information officers (CIOs) in larger organizations.

Which One to Choose?

• Choose CGRC if:
  
  • You are focused on governance, risk management, and compliance.
    
  • You are working in or aspire to work in the public sector or regulatory environments.
    
  • You want a certification that helps you understand the alignment of business objectives with risk management.
    
• Choose CISA if:
  
  • You want to specialize in information systems auditing and IT security.
    
  • You aim to work in industries like banking, finance, or healthcare, where IT auditing and security are paramount.
    
  • You are interested in working as an IT auditor, security analyst, or compliance manager.

CGRC vs CRISC

While CGRC and CISA are popular certifications for professionals working in the governance, risk, and compliance fields, another significant certification to consider is CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control). Let’s compare CGRC and CRISC to understand their differences and determine which one might be more suitable for specific career paths.

Overview of CRISC

CRISC, offered by ISACA, focuses on risk management and information systems controls. It is designed for professionals responsible for identifying and managing risks and designing and implementing controls to mitigate those risks. 

The CRISC certification is aimed at professionals who work in the risk management domain and are involved in assessing, managing, and controlling the risks related to information systems.

Key Differences Between CGRC and CRISC

• Focus Areas:
  
  • CGRC: CGRC focuses more on regulatory compliance, governance, and risk management, especially in the context of ensuring that business processes and systems comply with applicable laws and regulations.
    
  • CRISC: CRISC, in contrast, has a more specific focus on identifying and managing risks, as well as designing and implementing controls to mitigate those risks. It is less focused on compliance and more on building effective risk management frameworks.
    
• Role Alignment:
  
  • CGRC: CGRC is ideal for those who are more involved in compliance roles, ensuring that organizations meet regulatory requirements and manage their governance and compliance effectively.
    
  • CRISC: CRISC is better suited for those in risk management roles who are primarily focused on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in organizations, especially concerning information systems.
    
• Exam Content:
  
  • CGRC: The CGRC exam covers topics related to governance and compliance, such as risk management frameworks, regulatory compliance, and the overall alignment of business objectives with risk and security practices.
    
  • CRISC: CRISC’s exam dives deeper into risk management and information systems controls, including the identification of risks, implementing effective controls, and continuous monitoring of the organization’s risk posture.

Which Certification to Choose?

• Choose CGRC if:
  
  • Your focus is on regulatory compliance, governance, and understanding how to align business practices with risk management frameworks.
    
  • You are aiming for a role in compliance, government positions, or industries that require in-depth understanding of regulatory requirements.
    
• Choose CRISC if:
  
  • You are interested in managing risk and designing controls within organizations.
    
  • You want to specialize in identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in relation to information systems and want to play a critical role in shaping an organization’s risk management strategy.

Conclusion

When it comes to advancing your career in the cybersecurity and risk management fields, choosing the right certification can have a significant impact. The CGRC and CISA certifications each offer distinct advantages, with a focus on different aspects of governance, risk management, and compliance. 

While CGRC emphasizes regulatory compliance and governance, making it ideal for those working in heavily regulated environments, CISA is better suited for professionals focused on IT auditing and control.

On the other hand, CRISC is another strong contender, offering a specialized focus on risk management and the design of information systems controls. Choosing between these certifications depends largely on your career goals, your current skillset, and the specific roles you aspire to within the cybersecurity and risk management landscape.

For those looking to specialize in governance, risk, and compliance, CGRC is an excellent choice, especially for roles in compliance and regulatory environments. If your career is more aligned with IT auditing and information systems security, CISA is the certification that will open doors to roles in auditing and security analysis. 

Meanwhile, CRISC provides deep expertise in risk management and information systems control, making it a great fit for professionals looking to focus on managing and mitigating risks.

Ultimately, all three certifications, CGRC, CISA, and CRISC, are valuable in their own right, and whichever you choose should align with your career path, expertise, and interests. By investing in the right certification, you’ll not only enhance your skill set but also increase your earning potential and career opportunities.

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