CISSP vs PMP
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
PMP
PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CISSP | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $749 USD | ✓$555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$22,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | (ISC)² | PMI |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Advanced |
CISSP — Prerequisites
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
PMP — Prerequisites
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
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 PMP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$25,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from PMI
Best CISSP courses
Best PMP courses
Frequently asked questions
Is CISSP harder than PMP?
Both CISSP and PMP are rated advanced difficulty.
Which pays more — CISSP or PMP?
CISSP has an average salary uplift of +$22,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISSP or PMP?
CISSP is the better starting point — it's rated advanced and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.