Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The Critical Role of IT Governance, Internal Control, and Risk Management
In today’s corporate landscape, where governance, accountability, and risk management are paramount, the need to integrate robust corporate governance with effective internal control mechanisms has never been greater. Technical strategies alone are insufficient in ensuring sound IT governance and delivering business value. To maximize the benefits of information the lifeblood of an organization it is imperative to implement a comprehensive IT governance strategy, an assurance program, and a robust information security framework aligned with business objectives and risk management imperatives.
Organizations must leverage the expertise of experienced IT audit and security professionals to safeguard their systems, assess the adequacy of controls, and ensure compliance with established policies, standards, laws, and regulations. These professionals play a pivotal role in maintaining data integrity, enhancing system security, and optimizing operational efficiency.
With the increasing demand for professionals skilled in IS audit, control, and security, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) designation has emerged as a globally recognized benchmark. This prestigious certification equips individuals with the expertise required to evaluate, manage, and secure information systems, making it the preferred qualification for professionals and organizations worldwide.
Founded in 1969, ISACA is a globally recognized leader in IT governance, control, security and assurance representing more than 75000 strong worldwide members who live and work in more than 170 countries and cover a variety of professional IT-related positions such as IS auditor, consultant, educator, IS security professional, regulator, chief information officer and internal auditor. ISACA members work in nearly all industry categories, including financial and banking, public sector, utilities and manufacturing. ISACA is a pace-setting global organization for IT professionals focusing on information governance, security and audit. It is uniquely positioned and equipped to be the single provider of the leading-edge products and services needed to be successful and maintain a competitive advantage. isaca.org
The CISA certification has been recognized with ANSI accreditation, along with the CISM certification- both of these certifications are managed by ISACA. It is one of the few certifications formally approved by the US Department of Defense in its Information Assurance Technical category (DOD 8570.01-M). The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has awarded accreditation under ISO/IEC 17024 to the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification programs.
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification continues to be a globally recognized credential, enhancing career prospects in IT audit, control, and security. Recent acknowledgments underscore its value:
- S. Department of Defense Recognition (May 2024)
- The U.S. Department of Defense has approved CISA as a qualification for its cyber workforce under DoD Manual 8140.03, highlighting its significance in cybersecurity roles.
- ISACA’s CISA Online Review Course 2024
- ISACA offers an updated CISA Online Review Course, providing on-demand instruction and in-depth exam preparation, reflecting the certification’s evolving relevance. isaca.org
In Pakistan, the SKANS School of Accountancy offers comprehensive training for the CISA certification, emphasizing its global recognition and the career opportunities it affords in IT governance, risk management, and internal controls. These developments affirm CISA’s status as a leading certification for professionals aiming to excel in information systems auditing and security.