Professional Scrum Master I vs CISSP
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
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 →(ISC)²
CISSP
CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Professional Scrum Master I | CISSP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$200 USD | $749 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$9,000/yr | ✓+$22,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 240 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Scrum.org | (ISC)² |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Advanced |
Professional Scrum Master I — Prerequisites
None required
CISSP — Prerequisites
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
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
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
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Best CISSP courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Professional Scrum Master I harder than CISSP?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — Professional Scrum Master I or CISSP?
Professional Scrum Master I has an average salary uplift of +$9,000/yr, while CISSP has +$22,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Professional Scrum Master I or CISSP?
Professional Scrum Master I is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.