CISM vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
ISACA
CISM
CISM
Management-focused security certification covering governance, risk management, and incident management.
Full guide →Scrum.org
Professional Scrum Master I
PSM I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CISM | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $760 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$20,000/yr | +$9,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | ISACA | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner |
CISM — Prerequisites
5 years information security management experience
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
Get CISM if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$20,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from ISACA
Get Professional Scrum Master I if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$9,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Scrum.org
Best CISM courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CISM harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
CISM is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — CISM or Professional Scrum Master I?
CISM has an average salary uplift of +$20,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. CISM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISM or Professional Scrum Master I?
Professional Scrum Master I is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISM.