CISSP vs CAPM
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
(ISC)²
CISSP
CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →PMI
CAPM
CAPM
Entry-level PMI certification validating foundational project management knowledge and terminology for those new to the field.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CISSP | CAPM |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $749 USD | ✓$300 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$22,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 150 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | (ISC)² | PMI |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner |
CISSP — Prerequisites
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
CAPM — Prerequisites
High school diploma + 23 hours of project management education
Get CISSP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$22,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from (ISC)²
Get CAPM if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best CISSP courses
Best CAPM courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CISSP harder than CAPM?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — CISSP or CAPM?
CISSP has an average salary uplift of +$22,000/yr, while CAPM has +$8,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISSP or CAPM?
CAPM is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.