The Top 10 Governance Risk and Compliance GRC Certifications

In today’s world, even one mistake can lead to huge financial losses and damage a company’s reputation beyond repair. That’s why understanding governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) is more important than ever.

Increasing regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats, and complex geopolitical landscapes have called for the implementation of robust governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) frameworks. 

GRC certifications are designed to validate IT professionals’ skills, knowledge, and abilities who manage these crucial areas within an enterprise. 

This article highlights the top 10 governance risk and compliance GRC certifications that stand out in relevance, credibility, and value. This will help professionals achieve compliance and risk management goals in their careers and organizations.

Top 10 GRC Certifications: Comparison Table

RELATED: GRC Analyst Vs SOC Analyst: Salary, Certifications, and Tools

Understanding GRC Certifications

GRC certifications are professional validations demonstrating an individual’s competence in managing an organization’s governance, risk, and compliance. These certifications cover a broad range of topics, including regulatory compliance, risk management strategies, and governance frameworks. 

They are essential because they help ensure that organizations operate within legal and ethical boundaries, manage risks effectively, and establish processes to govern these activities efficiently.

The benefits of obtaining GRC certifications are multifaceted. For professionals, they offer career advancement opportunities, higher earning potential, and increased industry credibility. 

For organizations, employing GRC-certified professionals means enhanced risk management practices, better compliance with regulations, and improved governance structures.

Criteria for Selecting the Best GRC Certifications

Selecting the best GRC certifications involves considering several criteria:

1. Relevance to Industry Needs: The certification should address current and emerging issues in GRC.
2. Recognition and Credibility: The certifying body should be well-regarded in the industry.
3. Coverage of Key GRC Domains: Effective certifications comprehensively cover governance, risk management, and compliance.
4. Prerequisites and Eligibility Requirements: Understanding the necessary qualifications and experience required to pursue the certification.
5. Certification Cost and Maintenance Fees: Evaluating the financial investment involved, including initial certification and ongoing maintenance costs.

Understanding GRC Certifications

GRC certifications are professional validations demonstrating an individual’s competence in managing an organization’s governance, risk, and compliance. These certifications cover a broad range of topics, including regulatory compliance, risk management strategies, and governance frameworks. 

They are essential because they help ensure that organizations operate within legal and ethical boundaries, manage risks effectively, and establish processes to govern these activities efficiently.

Why Are GRC Certifications Important?

The importance of GRC certifications has been underscored by several high-profile corporate scandals and subsequent regulatory changes, such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. These events highlighted the need for professionals who can ensure that internal processes comply with legal and regulatory standards.

GRC professionals play a crucial role in:

• Reducing Risk: Establishing controls and policies to mitigate risks.
• Ensuring Compliance: Making sure the organization adheres to all relevant laws and regulations.
• Enhancing Governance: Creating a system of checks and balances to manage business processes more efficiently.

Benefits of Obtaining GRC Certifications

For professionals, GRC certifications offer several advantages:

• Career Advancement: Certifications can help individuals stand out in the job market, leading to promotions and leadership positions.
• Increased Earnings: Certified professionals often command higher salaries.
• Industry Credibility: Certifications enhance an individual’s professional reputation and credibility within the industry.

For organizations, employing GRC-certified professionals means:

• Improved Compliance: Better adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Enhanced Risk Management: More effective identification and mitigation of risks.
• Stronger Governance: Improved processes and policies for managing business operations.

READ MORE: How to Become a GRC Analyst

Criteria for Selecting the Best GRC Certifications

Selecting the best GRC certifications involves considering several key criteria. These factors ensure that the certification you choose will provide the most value and help you advance in your career effectively.

1. Relevance to Industry Needs The certification should address both current and emerging issues in the field of GRC. As the landscape of governance, risk management, and compliance evolves, it’s crucial that the certification remains relevant and up-to-date with industry standards and practices. Certifications that are aligned with the latest regulatory requirements and risk management strategies are more likely to be valuable to employers.

2. Recognition and Credibility: The certifying body should be well-regarded and respected within the industry. Certifications from reputable organizations such as ISACA, ISC2, and the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) are widely recognized and respected, enhancing your professional credibility and increasing your career opportunities.

3. Coverage of Key GRC Domains Effective GRC certifications should comprehensively cover governance, risk management, and compliance. This ensures that you have a well-rounded understanding of all aspects of GRC. The certification should include topics such as regulatory compliance, risk assessment and mitigation, governance frameworks, and ethical standards.

4. Prerequisites and Eligibility Requirements Understanding the necessary qualifications and experience required to pursue the certification is important. Some certifications require specific educational backgrounds or years of professional experience in GRC-related roles. Assessing whether you meet these prerequisites before committing to a certification is essential.

5. Certification Cost and Maintenance Fees Evaluating the financial investment involved is crucial. Certification costs can vary widely, and it’s important to consider the initial cost and ongoing maintenance fees. Some certifications also require continuous professional education (CPE) credits to maintain the credential, which can add to the overall cost.

6. Entry-Level vs. Advanced Certifications For those new to the field, entry-level GRC certifications provide a foundational understanding of GRC principles and practices. These certifications are designed to help you get started in the field and build a solid knowledge base. For more experienced professionals, advanced certifications offer deeper insights and specialized knowledge that can help you advance to higher-level positions.

The Top 10 Governance Risk and Compliance GRC Certifications

Now, let’s explore the top six GRC certifications that stand out due to their industry relevance, credibility, and the value they provide to professionals and organizations. 

These certifications are widely recognized and respected, making them valuable assets for anyone looking to advance their career in governance, risk management, and compliance.

1. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)

The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) certification, offered by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB), is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in regulations and compliance processes. 

This certification is ideal for professionals responsible for understanding and addressing legal obligations and maintaining organizational integrity through compliance programs.

Key Focus Areas:

• Standards, policies, and procedures
• Communication, education, and training
• Monitoring, auditing, and reporting
• Administration of compliance and ethics programs

Eligibility Requirements:

• At least one year of experience in a full-time compliance position or 1,500 hours of direct compliance job duties earned over two years or less
• Job duties directly related to tasks outlined in the Candidate Handbook, including knowledge of standards, policies, procedures, communication, education, training, monitoring, auditing, reporting, and administration of compliance and ethics programs
• Exemption from these requirements is possible if a certificate program from a CCB-accredited university was completed within two years prior to the application date

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Candidates must earn and submit 20 CCB-approved continuing education units from live training, events, and web conferences
• Exam fees: $350 for members or $450 for non-members, with a $125 renewal fee for members or $245 for non-members

Suitable For:

• Compliance officers
• Ethics professionals

SEE MORE: What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? Everything you Need to Know

2. Certified Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC)

The CGRC certification, offered by ISC2, demonstrates expertise in governance, risk, and compliance, and the ability to integrate these elements into organizational practices. 

The certification covers topics such as information security risk management, the authorization and approval of information systems, and the implementation and monitoring of security and privacy controls.

Key Focus Areas:

• Information security risk management
• Authorization and approval of information systems
• Selecting, implementing, and auditing security and privacy controls

Eligibility Requirements:

• Two years of relevant work experience in one or more of the seven domains outlined in the ISC2 CGRC exam outline

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• To maintain certification, you need 60 CPE credits over three years and an annual maintenance fee of $135
• Exam fees: $599

Suitable For:

• IT security analysts
• Risk managers

3. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

The CRISC certification, offered by ISACA, is designed for IT professionals who manage IT and enterprise risk and ensure that risk management goals are met. 

This certification is highly sought after by both candidates and employers due to its focus on IT risk identification, risk response and mitigation, and the maintenance of information system controls.

Key Focus Areas:

• IT risk identification
• Risk response and mitigation
• Risk and control monitoring and reporting

Eligibility Requirements:

• A minimum of three years of cumulative work experience in IT risk and information systems across at least two of the four CRISC domains
• Adherence to the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics and compliance with the CRISC Continuing Education Policy

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $575 for ISACA members or $760 for non-members

Suitable For:

• IT professionals managing risk and IS controls

4. Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)

The CGEIT certification, offered by ISACA, recognizes IT professionals with deep knowledge of enterprise IT governance principles and practices. It is designed to help professionals enhance organizational value through governance and risk optimization measures and align IT with business strategies and goals.

Key Focus Areas:

• Framework for the governance of enterprise IT
• Strategic management
• Benefits realization
• Risk optimization
• Resource optimization

Eligibility Requirements:

• At least five years of cumulative work experience in IT enterprise governance, including at least one year defining, implementing, and managing a governance framework
• Adherence to the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics and compliance with the CGEIT Continuing Education Policy

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $525 for ISACA members or $760 for non-members

Suitable For:

• IT managers
• Enterprise governance advisors

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5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The CISM certification offered by ISACA is focused on information security management. It covers assessing risks, implementing governance practices, and responding proactively to security incidents. The certification also addresses emerging technologies to ensure that professionals are equipped to handle evolving security risks.

Key Focus Areas:

• Information security governance
• Information security risk management
• Information security programs
• Incident management

Eligibility Requirements:

• Five or more years of experience in information security management

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $575 for members or $760 for non-members

Suitable For:

• Information security managers
• IT directors

6. GRC Professional (GRCP)

The GRC Professional (GRCP) certification, offered by OCEG, is designed to provide a broad understanding of GRC principles and practices. It is suitable for professionals at various stages of their careers, whether starting in an auditing role or already practicing GRC.

Key Focus Areas:

• GRC practices and principles
• Risk management
• Performance management

Eligibility Requirements:

• No specific educational or experience requirements; open and accessible to all professionals

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• The exam consists of 100 questions and takes up to two hours to complete
• It is an open-book exam where candidates can use resources like Google for answers
• Exam fees: $499 for an All-Access Pass, which includes study materials and the exam

Suitable For:

• Entry-level GRC professionals
• Broad industry application

7. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

The Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA), offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), is designed for risk management, governance, and quality assurance professionals. It recognizes individuals who are trusted advisors to senior management and audit committees in large organizations.

Key Focus Areas:

• Risk management assurance
• Governance
• Quality assurance
• Control self-assessment

Eligibility Requirements:

• CIA certification
• 3-4 year post-secondary degree
• 2 years of auditing or control-related experience
• Character reference signed by a person holding an IIA certification or a supervisor
• Adherence to the IIA Code of Ethics

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $465 for IIA members or $610 for non-members, with an application fee of $100 for members and $220 for non-members

Suitable For:

• Internal auditors
• Risk management professionals

8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

The CISSP certification, offered by ISC2, is designed for cybersecurity professionals to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity programs.

Key Focus Areas:

• Security and risk management
• Asset security
• Security architecture and engineering
• Identity and access management (IAM)
• Security assessment and testing
• Security operations
• Software development security

Eligibility Requirements:

• Five or more years of cybersecurity work experience or equivalent
• One year of work experience can be substituted with a four-year college degree or equivalent, or an advanced degree in information security from the US National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAE/IAE)
• One year of work experience can be satisfied if you hold another approved credential from ISC2

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $749

Suitable For:

• Cybersecurity professionals
• Security engineers

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9. ITIL Expert

The ITIL Expert certification, offered by AXELOS, is tied to the ITIL framework, which describes best practices for designing, implementing, and managing a wide variety of IT service projects.

Key Focus Areas:

• IT service management
• Service lifecycle stages

Eligibility Requirements:

• ITIL Foundation certificate or a Bridge qualification equivalent
• At least 17 credits per the ITIL Credit System
• Approved training course

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Managing Across the Lifecycle (MALC) exam
• Training costs vary among vendors, but expect to pay in the range of $1,800 (online) to $5,000 (classroom), which includes training and the exam.

Suitable For:

• IT service managers
• ITIL practitioners

10. Project Management Institute — Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)

The PMI-RMP certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is designed for IT professionals involved with large projects or working in complex environments who assess and identify project-based risks.

Key Focus Areas:

• Risk strategy and planning
• Stakeholder engagement
• Risk process facilitation
• Risk monitoring and reporting
• Performing specialized risk analysis

Eligibility Requirements:

• Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or global equivalent), and at least 4,500 hours of project risk management experience and 40 hours of project risk management education
• Or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent), at least 3,000 hours of project risk management experience, and 30 hours of project risk management education

Exam Structure and Certification Process:

• Exam fees: $520 for PMI members or $670 for nonmembers

Suitable For:

• Project managers
• Risk management professionals

Entry-Level GRC Certifications

For individuals new to the field of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), entry-level certifications provide a solid foundation and are an excellent starting point. 

These certifications introduce essential GRC concepts, practices, and principles, enabling newcomers to build a strong knowledge base that can be expanded upon with more advanced certifications.

Importance of Entry-Level GRC Certifications

Entry-level GRC certifications are crucial for several reasons:

• Foundation Building: They provide the basic understanding and skills needed to start a career in GRC.
• Career Entry: These certifications help individuals secure entry-level positions in GRC, opening doors to further career opportunities.
• Confidence Boosting: Earning a certification validates your knowledge and can boost your confidence as you embark on your GRC career.

Recommended Entry-Level GRC Certifications

1. GRC Professional (GRCP)
   • Offered by OCEG, the GRCP certification is accessible to professionals at all career stages, including beginners. It covers basic GRC principles and practices, making it an excellent choice for those just starting in the field.
   • Eligibility: No specific educational or experience requirements.
   • Exam: 100 questions, open-book format.
   • Cost: $499 for an All-Access Pass, which includes study materials and the exam.
2. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)
   • While not exclusively entry-level, the CCEP certification can be pursued early in a compliance career. It provides a comprehensive understanding of compliance and ethics programs.
   • Eligibility: At least one year of experience in a compliance role or 1,500 hours of direct compliance duties.
   • Exam: Focuses on standards, policies, procedures, and compliance program administration.
   • Cost: $350 for members, $450 for non-members, with renewal fees.

READ: Best Cybersecurity Certifications for You

Free GRC Certification Options

While most recognized GRC certifications come with associated costs, there are some free resources and introductory courses available that can provide foundational knowledge:

• OCEG’s GRC Fundamentals Course: OCEG offers a free introductory course on GRC fundamentals, which can be a good starting point before pursuing the GRCP certification.
• MOOCs and Online Platforms: Websites like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning occasionally offer free courses on governance, risk management, and compliance.

How Entry-Level Certifications Pave the Way for Advanced Credentials

Entry-level certifications lay the groundwork for more advanced GRC credentials by:

• Providing essential knowledge that is built upon in advanced certifications.
• Offering a clear pathway for professional development and career progression.
• Equipping individuals with the skills and confidence needed to tackle more complex GRC challenges.

GRC Certification Courses

To successfully obtain a GRC certification, enrolling in specialized courses designed to prepare candidates for the certification exams is often beneficial. These courses provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills necessary to pass the exams and excel in GRC roles.

Available GRC Certification Courses

There are various courses available for each GRC certification, ranging from online self-paced modules to intensive classroom training sessions. Here’s an overview of recommended courses for the top GRC certifications:

1. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)
   • Courses Offered: The Compliance Certification Board (CCB) offers preparatory courses, workshops, and webinars.
   • Training Formats: Online courses, live virtual events, and in-person training sessions.
   • Key Topics: Regulatory compliance, ethics programs, auditing and monitoring, and compliance administration.
2. Certified Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC)
   • Courses Offered: ISC2 provides official CGRC training courses, including self-paced online courses and instructor-led classes.
   • Training Formats: Online, in-person, and hybrid options.
   • Key Topics: Information security risk management, authorization and approval of information systems, security and privacy controls.
3. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
   • Courses Offered: ISACA offers comprehensive training for CRISC, including online review courses and in-person workshops.
   • Training Formats: Self-paced online courses, live instructor-led sessions, and intensive boot camps.
   • Key Topics: IT risk identification, risk response and mitigation, risk and control monitoring.
4. Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
   • Courses Offered: ISACA provides CGEIT preparation courses, including online review courses and in-person training sessions.
   • Training Formats: Online, classroom, and hybrid courses.
   • Key Topics: Governance of enterprise IT, strategic management, risk optimization.
5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
   • Courses Offered: ISACA offers a variety of CISM training options, including self-paced courses and instructor-led sessions.
   • Training Formats: Online, in-person, and hybrid formats.
   • Key Topics: Information security governance, risk management, incident management.
6. GRC Professional (GRCP)
   • Courses Offered: OCEG provides training for the GRCP certification through its all-access pass, which includes webinars, eLearning programs, and study guides.
   • Training Formats: Online courses and live virtual events.
   • Key Topics: GRC principles, risk management, performance management.

Comparison of Course Providers and Training Formats

When selecting a GRC certification course, consider the following factors:

• Flexibility: Online and self-paced courses offer greater flexibility for working professionals.
• Cost: Course fees can vary widely; compare different providers to find a course that fits your budget.
• Depth of Content: Ensure the course covers all the necessary topics and provides ample preparation for the certification exam.
• Instructor Expertise: Courses led by experienced instructors can provide valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Tips for Choosing the Right Course

• Assess Your Learning Style: Choose a format that matches your preferred learning style, whether it’s self-paced, instructor-led, or a combination of both.
• Check Reviews and Testimonials: Look for feedback from past participants to gauge the effectiveness of the course.
• Consider Employer Sponsorship: Some employers may sponsor your certification training, reducing the financial burden.
• Utilize Free Resources: Complement paid courses with free resources such as webinars, articles, and community forums to enhance your learning.

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GRC Certification Costs and ROI

When considering GRC certifications, evaluating the financial investment involved is important. This includes the initial cost of obtaining the certification and ongoing maintenance fees. Additionally, understanding the return on investment (ROI) is crucial to determine the long-term value of the certification.

Breakdown of Certification Costs for Each Top Certification

1. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)
   • Initial Exam Fee: $350 for members, $450 for non-members
   • Renewal Fee: $125 for members, $245 for non-members
   • Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses
2. Certified Governance Risk and Compliance (CGRC)
   • Initial Exam Fee: $599
   • Maintenance Fee: $135 annually
   • Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses
3. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
   • Initial Exam Fee: $575 for ISACA members, $760 for non-members
   • Maintenance Fee: Varies based on continuing professional education (CPE) requirements
   • Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses
4. Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
   • Initial Exam Fee: $525 for ISACA members, $760 for non-members
   • Maintenance Fee: Varies based on CPE requirements
   • Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses
5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
   • Initial Exam Fee: $575 for members, $760 for non-members
   • Maintenance Fee: Varies based on CPE requirements
   • Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses
6. GRC Professional (GRCP)
   • Exam Fee: $499 for an All-Access Pass
   • Maintenance Fee: Included in the All-Access Pass
   • Additional Costs: Minimal, as the All-Access Pass includes necessary study materials
7. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

• Initial Exam Fee: $465 for IIA members, $610 for non-members
• Application Fee: $100 for members, $220 for non-members
• Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses

8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• Initial Exam Fee: $749
• Maintenance Fee: $125 annually
• Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses

9. ITIL Expert

• Training and Exam Fee: $1,800 – $5,000 (varies by vendor)
• Maintenance Fee: Included in training costs
• Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses

10. Project Management Institute — Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)

• Initial Exam Fee: $520 for PMI members, $670 for non-members
• Maintenance Fee: Varies based on continuing professional education (CPE) requirements
• Additional Costs: Study materials, training courses

Cost vs. Benefits: Evaluating the ROI of GRC Certifications

When evaluating the ROI of GRC certifications, consider the following factors:

1. Career Advancement
   • Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals often command higher salaries.
   • Promotional Opportunities: Certifications can pave the way for leadership roles and promotions.
2. Job Security and Marketability
   • Increased Demand: GRC professionals are in high demand due to increasing regulatory requirements and cybersecurity threats.
   • Competitive Edge: Certifications can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
3. Organizational Value
   • Enhanced Compliance: Certified professionals can help organizations achieve and maintain regulatory compliance.
   • Risk Mitigation: Effective risk management practices reduce the likelihood of costly incidents.
   • Improved Governance: Strong governance frameworks contribute to organizational efficiency and stability.

Employer Sponsorship and Financial Aid Options for GRC Certification Courses

Many employers recognize the value of GRC certifications and may offer sponsorship or financial aid to support employees pursuing these credentials. Here are some options to consider:

1. Employer Sponsorship Programs
   • Full or Partial Reimbursement: Some companies offer full or partial reimbursement for certification costs, including exam fees and training courses.
   • Professional Development Funds: Employers may allocate funds specifically for employee development, which can be used for certifications.
2. Financial Aid and Scholarships
   • Industry Associations: Organizations like ISACA and ISC2 may offer scholarships or financial aid for certification candidates.
   • Educational Institutions: Some universities and training providers offer financial aid or discounts for certification courses.
3. Tax Deductions
   • Educational Expenses: In some cases, certification costs can be deducted as educational expenses on your tax return. Consult with a tax advisor for specific guidance.

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Conclusion

Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) certifications are essential tools for professionals seeking to excel in their careers and for organizations aiming to enhance their risk management and compliance practices. 

The top 10 GRC certifications highlighted in this article – CCEP, CGRC, CRISC, CGEIT, CISM, GRCP, CRMA, CISSP, ITIL Expert, and PMI-RMP – each offer unique benefits and cater to different aspects of GRC, making them valuable assets for various roles within the industry.

Professionals can significantly enhance their expertise and marketability by understanding the importance of GRC certifications, selecting the right certification based on industry needs and personal career goals, and investing in appropriate certification courses. 

Additionally, evaluating these certifications’ costs and potential ROI ensures that the investment will yield long-term career benefits.

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