To become the very best cyber security professional possible, you first need to start with a strong academic background. There are many traditional and online programs that can prepare you for your career path. However, if you want to take your career to the next level, you will likely need an additional certification from a professional organization.

As a rule, professional organizations and technology companies have led the tech as far as career advancement credentials, and there have been organizations for computer security professionals since the 1960’s. The ISACA is one such organization. Formed in 1967, the association now claims over 140,000 members worldwide. The membership is organized by 200 chapters in 80 countries.

As an educational resource, the ISACA publishes a regular journal and maintains databases of research and other documents to help cyber security professionals stay at the front of the industry—and their specialty. They also offer a certification program, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), that gives members high-status credentials.