Top 11 Information Specialist Certifications

Certifications are a great way for information specialists to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the job market. Having certifications can help employers quickly identify an individual’s qualifications, experience, and expertise. They also provide a way for employers to verify the skills and abilities of potential employees. As technology continues to evolve, certifications can help employers ensure that their employees have the necessary knowledge and understanding of new technologies, trends, and systems. Additionally, certifications can give information specialists an edge over other job applicants by providing them with credibility and recognition in the industry.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Information Specialists and explain how they can help advance an Information Specialist's career.

What are Information Specialist Certifications?

Information specialist certification is a credential that is awarded to individuals who demonstrate an advanced level of expertise in information management. This certification is typically offered by organizations such as the Institute for Information Management or the American Society for Information Science and Technology.

The certification is designed to help professionals in the information management field stay up-to-date on the latest technology, best practices, and trends. It also allows them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in working with databases, data warehouses, data mining tools, and other software applications used to store and organize large amounts of information.

With an information specialist certification, professionals can become more marketable in their chosen field. The credential can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. It can also be beneficial when negotiating salaries as it shows employers that they have a higher level of competency than those without this type of certification. Additionally, having this credential may qualify someone for special projects or assignments within an organization.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in an information specialist certification program, make sure to research the coursework and requirements of the program and ensure that it aligns with your career goals. Additionally, look into what types of certifications may be available after completing the program and their associated benefits.

Related: What does an Information Specialist do?

Top 11 Information Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Information Specialists today.

1. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional designation awarded by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM). It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates expertise in records and information management.

To become a CRM, an individual must pass a comprehensive examination and meet certain educational and experience requirements. The examination covers topics such as records management principles, legal requirements, technology, and best practices.

The process of becoming a CRM typically takes between six months to one year. To get started, interested individuals must first apply for the ICRM’s Certification Program. This involves submitting an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, work experience letters, and references. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam which must be taken within two years of registration.

The cost of becoming a Certified Records Manager varies depending on the country in which you are taking the exam but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This fee includes the cost of registration, study materials, and the exam itself.

2. Certified Information Professional (CIP)

Certified Information Professional (CIP) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM). It is designed to provide recognition for individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in records management and information governance. The CIP credential is an internationally recognized designation which demonstrates expertise in the field of information management.

The CIP certification requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in the field, as well as completion of an approved educational program or equivalent work experience. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as records and information management principles, legal requirements, technology, and best practices.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CIP certification process depending on the individual’s prior knowledge and experience. To get started, applicants must first register with ICRM and pay the associated fees. Once registered, applicants can begin studying for the exam by accessing ICRM’s study materials, attending webinars or workshops, or taking courses from accredited institutions.

The cost of obtaining the CIP certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. The ICRM registration fee is $250 USD plus additional fees for study materials and other resources such as webinars or workshops. Additionally, some courses may require additional tuition fees if taken through an accredited institution.

3. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is an internationally recognized certification issued by ISACA, a global association of information security professionals. The CISM credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in managing, developing, and overseeing an enterprise’s information security program.

The CISM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering four domains: Information Security Governance, Risk Management and Compliance, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management. The exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

To become certified as a CISM, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a minimum of five years of cumulative work experience in information security management within the past 10 years;
• Pass the CISM exam;
• Agree to abide by ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics; and
• Submit an application for certification that includes references from peers or supervisors who can attest to your professional experience.

The cost for the CISM exam is $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members. The cost for recertification every three years is $45 for members and $60 for non-members.

4. Certified Knowledge Manager (CKM)

Certified Knowledge Manager (CKM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in knowledge management. It is awarded by the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI), an organization dedicated to advancing the field of knowledge management and promoting best practices.

The CKM certification requires candidates to pass an exam that tests their understanding of knowledge management principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as knowledge acquisition, storage, retrieval, sharing, and application. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

The CKM exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken online or at a testing center. Candidates who successfully pass the exam will receive a certificate from KMI indicating they are Certified Knowledge Managers.

The cost of the CKM certification varies depending on the country where you take the exam, but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of competence in information systems auditing, control, and security. The CISA certification is recognized worldwide as the standard of achievement for those who audit, control, monitor, and assess an organization’s information technology and business systems.

It takes approximately 6-9 months to get the CISA certification. To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of experience in IS/IT audit, control or security work. You must also pass an exam administered by ISACA. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that are divided into five sections: Domain 1 - The Process of Auditing Information Systems; Domain 2 - Governance and Management of IT; Domain 3 - Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation; Domain 4 - Information Systems Operations, Maintenance and Support; and Domain 5 - Protection of Information Assets.

The cost to take the CISA exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $575-$675 USD. Additionally there is a one-time application fee which costs $50 USD.

6. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s proficiency in information security. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT field, and it is administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

The CISSP certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in at least two out of eight domains of security, such as asset security, communications and network security, identity and access management, risk management and software development security. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers all eight domains.

The exam typically takes up to six hours to complete and costs $699 USD for ISC2 members or $999 USD for non-members. The cost includes a one-year membership with ISC2 which gives access to additional resources such as webinars, study materials and discounts on other certifications.

In order to maintain the CISSP certification, professionals must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every three years. CPE credits can be earned through attending conferences or seminars related to information security or by teaching courses related to information security.

7. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in the field of business analysis. CBAP certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of business analysis.

To become a Certified Business Analysis Professional, individuals must meet certain requirements. These include having at least 7500 hours of documented business analysis experience over the past 10 years, as well as completing 35 hours of professional development activities within the last 4 years. Additionally, applicants must pass a rigorous 3-hour exam consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions.

The process of obtaining CBAP certification typically takes several months to complete. First, individuals must apply for and be accepted into the IIBA's Certification Program. Once accepted into the program, they must then prepare for and pass the exam. After passing the exam, they will receive their official CBAP certification from the IIBA.

The cost to obtain CBAP certification varies depending on where you live and which package you choose. Generally speaking, it costs between $100 - $1,000 USD to take the exam and become certified.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate an individual’s expertise in project management. The PMP credential is highly sought after by employers and demonstrates a commitment to the profession.

The PMP certification process requires the completion of an application, passing an exam, and meeting experience requirements. The application process includes submitting proof of your educational background, work experience, and training in project management. Once you have completed the application process, you must pass a 200-question multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of project management principles. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least 3 years of experience leading projects or 4500 hours of project management experience within the last 8 years.

The PMP exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members. After passing the exam, you will become certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP).

The PMP certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education credits or retaking the exam. Renewal fees are typically lower than initial certification fees.

9. Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP)

Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of competence in the field of data management. The certification is offered by the Data Management Association International (DAMA-I).

The CDMP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as data governance, data architecture, data modeling, database administration, business intelligence, and analytics. To become certified, applicants must pass an examination that covers these topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered online.

The CDMP certification process typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must first register for the exam and pay the registration fee. After registering, applicants must then study for the exam and take practice tests to prepare for it. Once they have passed the exam, applicants must submit proof of their education and work experience to DAMA-I in order to be certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) varies depending on which package you choose. DAMA-I offers three different packages ranging from $495-$995 USD. Each package includes access to study materials, practice exams, and the official CDMP exam fee.

10. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is an entry-level certification designed to provide a foundation of technology knowledge for students and IT professionals. The MTA certification demonstrates basic technical knowledge in core Microsoft technologies, such as Windows Server, Windows Client, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, and Database Fundamentals.

The MTA certification requires the completion of one or more exams that cover the fundamentals of a particular Microsoft technology. The exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers and can be taken at any time. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $127 USD.

The MTA certification does not expire; however, it is recommended that individuals refresh their skills every two years by taking additional courses or exams. To maintain the certification status, individuals must pass an additional exam every three years to demonstrate their continued proficiency in the relevant technology area.

Overall, obtaining an MTA certification is a great way for students and IT professionals alike to gain foundational knowledge in Microsoft technologies and demonstrate their technical expertise to potential employers.

11. Oracle Database Administrator Certification (OCA/OCP).

Oracle Database Administrator Certification (OCA/OCP) is a globally recognized professional certification program for database administrators. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of Oracle database administrators in order to ensure that they are competent and qualified to manage enterprise-level databases. The OCA/OCP certification is offered by Oracle University, which is the official training provider for Oracle products.

The OCA/OCP certification consists of two levels: the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) and the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP). The OCA level focuses on basic concepts and tasks related to database administration, while the OCP level covers more advanced topics such as performance tuning, security, backup and recovery, etc. To obtain the OCA/OCP certification, candidates must pass two exams: one for each level.

It usually takes about six months to complete the entire process of obtaining an OCA/OCP certification. During this time, candidates should take courses related to their chosen specialization from Oracle University or any other approved training provider. After completing their courses, they should then register for the exams and schedule a date for taking them.

The cost of obtaining an OCA/OCP certification depends on several factors such as the type of exam taken (i.e., 1Z0-062 or 1Z0-063), whether or not you are a member of an organization with discounted rates, and which country you are taking your exam in. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $100-$400 USD per exam depending on these factors.

Do You Really Need a Information Specialist Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an information specialist certificate to be successful in your career. However, depending on the field you are working in, having a certificate may give you an advantage over other applicants for certain positions or offer additional opportunities for career advancement.

For example, if you are interested in a job as a library science professional then having a certification can help demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field. It can also make you stand out from other applicants who may have similar qualifications but lack the specialized training that comes with a certification. Additionally, some employers may require or prefer candidates with a certification when they are hiring.

On the other hand, if you are looking to enter into another profession such as marketing or finance then having an information specialist certificate may not be necessary. In these fields, employers are more likely to be looking for candidates with specific skills and experiences related to their field rather than just certifications.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an information specialist certificate depends on your goals and the type of job you want to pursue. If you feel like it would give you an edge in your desired profession then it could be worth investing the time and money into obtaining one. However, if it doesn't seem necessary then focusing on gaining relevant experience and developing your skill set could be more beneficial for reaching your career goals.

Related: Information Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Information Specialist Certifications

1. What is an Information Specialist Certification?

Answer: An Information Specialist Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in information technology and management. It is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the skills and knowledge necessary for successful management of IT projects, systems, and operations.

2. How do I obtain an Information Specialist Certification?

Answer: To obtain an Information Specialist Certification, you must complete a recognized certification program offered by a qualified institution or organization. The program typically includes coursework in areas such as database design and management, system architecture, software engineering, networking, security, and other IT-related topics.

3. What are the benefits of obtaining an Information Specialist Certification?

Answer: Obtaining an Information Specialist Certification can help demonstrate professional competency in the IT field to potential employers as well as provide opportunities for career advancement. It can also provide access to industry resources and networks that may not be available otherwise.

4. What type of jobs can I get with an Information Specialist Certification?

Answer: With an Information Specialist Certification, you can pursue many different types of jobs in the IT field such as information technology manager, systems analyst, network administrator, database administrator, software developer, web designer/developer, or cybersecurity specialist.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining an Information Specialist Certification?

Answer: Most certification programs require applicants to have at least some experience working with computers or related technologies prior to enrollment in order to ensure they understand key concepts related to the profession. Some programs may also require applicants to have completed certain courses or certifications prior to enrollment as well.