PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →CompTIA CySA+
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →PMP vs CompTIA CySA+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PMP | CompTIA CySA+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $555 USD | ✓$404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$25,000/yr | +$12,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 230 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
CompTIA CySA+
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security experience
- You're a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
- You have 2–4 years in security and want to specialise your role
- You want a potential +$12,000/yr salary uplift
- You want to work in defence — SOC analysis, threat detection, or incident response
PMP and CompTIA CySA+ lead to entirely different careers — project management vs cybersecurity. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CompTIA CySA+ — it's the quicker win at the intermediate level.
Best PMP courses
Best CompTIA CySA+ courses
Is PMP harder than CompTIA CySA+?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — PMP or CompTIA CySA+?
PMP has an average salary uplift of +$25,000/yr, while CompTIA CySA+ has +$12,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMP or CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA CySA+ is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.
Can I get both PMP and CompTIA CySA+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PMP and CompTIA CySA+ complement each other, covering project management and cybersecurity respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — PMP or CompTIA CySA+?
Both are worth it in 2026. PMP offers a +$25,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA CySA+ offers +$12,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.