ISACA launches new certification for cybersecurity skills

ISACA has introduced the Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst (CCOA) credential to address demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals with practical threat response skills.

According to ISACA's State of Cybersecurity survey report, 73% of employers deem prior hands-on experience as a critical factor when evaluating potential job candidates, while 38% consider the credentials held by the candidate. To address this demand, the new certification offers performance-based labs that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing professionals to validate their practical cybersecurity skills.

The launch of the CCOA comes after a successful beta period, which saw over 900 applicants compete for 200 openings. Feedback from this process has been integral in refining both the examination and preparatory materials for the credential.

The CCOA is tailored for cybersecurity professionals possessing a few years of experience. It aims to enhance their ability to identify and respond to cyber threats, conduct vulnerability assessments, and advise on best practices for securing assets. The credential focuses on key areas such as cybersecurity principles, adversarial tactics, incident detection and response, and securing assets.

The hands-on component of the CCOA equips analysts with practical skills that are applicable in their roles. Jo Stewart-Rattray, ISACA's Oceania Ambassador, highlighted the importance of the CCOA in ensuring that analysts are prepared for the demands of the job market.

"The CCOA credential not only bridges the cybersecurity skills gap but also ensures analysts are job-ready with real-world expertise," said Stewart-Rattray. "Just as CISA and CISM are globally recognised as leading qualifications, CCOA is poised to follow – distinguishing professionals who earn it and providing employers with a trusted benchmark for proven cybersecurity talent."

Shannon Donahue, ISACA's Chief Content and Publishing Officer, emphasised the competitive advantage the CCOA provides to candidates, particularly those in the early stages of their careers. "Being able to demonstrate to peers and prospective employers a mastery of on-the-job tasks, as well as a wide breadth of knowledge and experience in both business and technical skills, can give candidates a competitive advantage in a tighter job market and a boost in getting to that next step in their profession," stated Donahue.

The CCOA credential is supported by an online review course offering one year of exam preparation access, a Questions, Answers, and Explanations Database (QAE), and a CCOA Review Manual available in both print and digital formats.

ISACA has a long history of providing certifications and training, including the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). The CCOA provides a pathway for professionals aiming to advance in cybersecurity, including those considering pursuing the CISM in the future. CCOA exam passers receive a one-year educational waiver towards the CISM exam.