Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) from (ISC)² is an advanced certification for experienced IT professionals looking to specialize in cloud security. Perfect for career changers with a security background, this credential validates expertise in securing cloud environments and can unlock roles like Cloud Security Architect, Security Consultant, and Compliance Manager. If you're ready to command higher salaries in the booming cloud security field, CCSP demonstrates the specialized skills employers desperately need.

Issued by (ISC)²
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification logo

Certification Requirements


Exam Required: Yes
Difficulty: Advanced
Prerequisites:
  • At least 5 years of cumulative work experience in information technology
    • 3 years must be in information security
    • 1 year must be in one or more of the six domains of the ISC2 CCSP Exam Outline
Additional Info:
  • A bachelor's or master's degree in IT, computer science, or a related field or an additional ISC2 credential may count toward one year of work experience.
  • Part-time work and internships may also count toward the work experience requirement.
  • The Cloud Security Alliance's Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) can be substituted for 1 year of work experience. 
  • An active CISSP credential satisfies the work experience requirement.

Topics covered by Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

The certification validates that you have the core skills necessary for a career in cloud security architecture, risk management, and compliance oversight.


Job Opportunities with a (ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification

The CCSP certification unlocks high-paying cloud security careers, with the following roles offering strong growth:

Cloud Security Engineer

Cloud Security Engineers protect organizations' cloud infrastructure by implementing security measures, monitoring threats, and ensuring compliance across cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Estimated Salary: $95,000 – $160,000

Cloud Security Architect

Cloud Security Architects design and implement comprehensive security frameworks for cloud environments, protecting organizations' data, applications, and infrastructure from cyber threats while ensuring regulatory compliance and business continuity.

Estimated Salary: $140,000 – $220,000

Cloud Security Analyst

Cloud Security Analysts protect organizations' cloud-based systems and data from cyber threats. They monitor security protocols, identify vulnerabilities, conduct risk assessments, and implement protective measures across cloud environments.

Estimated Salary: $95,000 – $140,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CCSP certification worth it for cloud security jobs?

Yes, CCSP certification is highly valued by employers and significantly boosts career prospects in cloud security roles.

How much does it cost to get CCSP certified?

The CCSP exam costs $749 USD. Additional study materials and training courses typically range from $200-2000 depending on your chosen preparation method.

What are the job requirements to take the CCSP exam?

To take the CCSP exam, candidates need five years of cumulative paid work experience in information technology, with three years in information security and one year in one or more of the six CCSP Common Body of Knowledge domains. However, you can substitute up to one year of experience with approved education credentials or certifications. If you don't meet the experience requirements yet, you can still take the exam and become an Associate of ISC2 until you gain the necessary experience to achieve full CCSP certification.

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