Are IT certifications worth it? In some cases, yes. Despite the low level of tech certifications since early 2013, some employers still pay extra for certain IT certifications, according to Foote Partners LLC.
In this article are the highest-paying tech certifications in 2022, along with their earning potential.
- SANS/GIAC Security Expert (GSE)
According to Foote Partners’ recent list of the highest-paying certifications, the GSE is the most prestigious and valuable credential. For tech workers and leaders who get GSE certification, employers offer high salaries, median cash bonuses, or premiums equivalent to 13% of base salary. A GSE-certified information security analyst can expect to earn $100,000 per year, while a GSE-certified penetration tester can expect to make $189,000 per year.
- Infosys Security Architecture Professional (ISSAP/CISSP)
Information security professionals who wish to expand their knowledge of information security architecture can earn the CISSP certification, which is an extension of the CISSP certification. In addition to 12% of the base salary, security architects can earn $130,770 in total cash compensation.
- GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN)
It certifies penetration testers, incident handlers, application developers, and IDS engineers as being capable of conducting advanced penetration tests in network and systems environments. This certification is associated with 12% cash bonuses or premiums paid by employers to professionals. According to PayScale, IT professionals certified by GxPN earn an average salary of $107,000.
- GIAC Security Leadership (GSLC)
Your career can boom if you earn the GSLC certification and earn a median cash bonus of 12% of your base salary. Among the topics covered in the 3-hour exam are governance, technical controls, incident response, staff, projects, and application security. In addition to practical work experience, training, college courses, or self-paced study, applicants can also qualify with a combination of these methods.
- Six Sigma Master Black Belt
Master Black Belt certification indicates to employers that you are capable of managing projects effectively. Many companies actively recruit Six Sigma Black Belts due to their focus on improving profitability. Foote Partners’ IT Salary Survey lists the average total compensation for a Black Belt at $169,170.
- PMI Program Management Professional (PgMP)
You can demonstrate your competency to prospective employers when you become a program manager. A median program manager earns 11% more than their base salary, which can reach $126,000. Students with hands-on experience and two evaluations can qualify as both high school and college graduates.
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
Regardless of your role, area of specialization, or industry, CySA+ certification may help you earn more money and advance your career. CySA+ professionals earn a national median salary, according to CompTIA. Depending on the location and role, certifications can cost up to $152,806 annually.
To sum up
Even though almost any certification can enhance your resume and increase your market value, advanced persistent threats and the protection of valuable data and information are of the utmost importance to companies. You can gain a competitive edge by earning any one of these cyber security certifications until supply catches up with demand. As a result, you will be able to earn high salaries and bonuses and possibly advance to management positions.
