CISM: Certified Information Security Manager with exam

CISM defines the core competencies and international standards of performance that information security managers are expected to master. It provides executive management with the assurance that those who have earned their CISM have the experience and knowledge to offer effective security management and advice.

This 4-day course provides an intense environment in which participants can acquire, thoroughly and properly, the skills and knowledge expected of a world-class information security manager. In the process the course provides outstanding preparation for the CISM exam.

This class is delivered by ALC. An ISACA® Accredited Partner.

Qualifying for CISM requires a combination of four "e's": experience, ethics, education and examination. Specifically, the requirements are:

• Successful completion of the CISM exam
• Adherence to a code of professional conduct
• Commitment to continuing professional education
• Submission of verified evidence of a minimum of five years of information security work experience, with a minimum of three years of information security management work experience in three or more of the job practice areas. Waivers for general information security work experience are available, if certain education or certification requirements are met

The CISM certification program recognises the achievement of the CISSP credential as a baseline representation that an individual has gained general information security skill and knowledge, just as it does with individuals who have earned a CISA. As such, CISSPs receive a two-year general information security experience waiver. However, CISSPs will not be eligible to earn a CISM unless they have the required experience and can demonstrate proficiency and practical knowledge in the role of an information security manager.
Holders of other, more specialised credentials, such as the SANS Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), Microsoft Security Systems Engineer (MCSE), CompTIA Security + Credential and the Disaster Recovery Institute Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) also can receive a one-year general information security experience waiver.

This course has been independently commissioned with two objectives:

• To provide an environment in which security professionals can acquire, thoroughly and properly, the skills and knowledge expected of a world class information security manager. Whether or not you intend to sit for the CISM exam, this course is a powerful way to equip yourself with the knowledge of the five core competencies that define the successful information security manager.
• To maximise your prospects at the CISM exam if you choose to sit it.

The CISM designation is for Information Security professionals who have 3-5 years of front-line experience with the security of information. This credential is geared towards Information Security managers and those who have information security management responsibilities.

The course is structured to follow the four Job Practice Areas as set out in the current CISM Review Manual. The course comprehensively covers each of the core competencies and associated task and knowledge statements, thereby ensuring thorough preparation for the CISM exam. The fundamental thrust of the examination is on understanding the concepts, not on memorising facts.  As a result, the course will be presented in an interactive manner to ensure the underlying concepts are understood and examination questions can be analysed properly to achieve the correct answer.

1. Information Security Governance and Strategy

• Effective Information Security Governance
• Key Information Security Concepts and Issues
• The IS Manager
• Scope and Charter of Information Security Governance
• IS Governance Metrics
• Developing an IS Strategy – Common Pitfalls
• IS Strategy Objectives
• Determining Current State of Security
• Strategy Resources
• Strategy Constraints
• Action Plan Immediate Goals
• Action Plan Intermediate Goals

Practice Questions; Review of Practice Questions;
Reference Materials and Glossary

2. Information Security Risk Management and Compliance

• Effective Information Security Risk Management
• Integration into Life Cycle Processes
• Implementing Risk Management
• Risk Identification and Analysis Methods
• Mitigation Strategies and Prioritisation
• Reporting Changes to Management

Practice Questions; Review of Practice Questions;
Reference Materials and Glossary

3. Information Security Program Development and Management

• Planning
• Security Baselines
• Business Processes
• Infrastructure
• Malicious Code (Malware)
• Life Cycles
• Impact on End Users
• Accountability
• Security Metrics
• Managing Internal and External Resources

Practice Questions; Review of Practice Questions;
Reference Materials and Glossary

4. Information Security Incident Management

• Implementing Effective Information Security Management
• Security Controls and Policies
• Standards and Procedures
• Trading Partners and Service Providers
• Security Metrics and Monitoring
• The Change Management Process
• Vulnerability Assessments
• Due Diligence
• Resolution of Non-Compliance Issues
• Culture, Behavior and Security Awareness

Practice Questions; Review of Practice Questions;
Reference Materials and Glossary