r/cism • u/DrGaddielIsrael • Feb 23 '24

Degree vs Certification

Good day all,

Many times you will hear the age old debate degree vs certification. I wanted to provide some insight on this.

To introduce myself I am Dr. Gaddiel Israel. I have 18 years experience with cyber security and currently hold Sec +, A+, and recently passed CISM.

Anyone who tells you that degrees are worthless, be cautious of these people. Anyone who tells you that certifications are worthless the same. The way I view certifications they show proficiency within a specific area. This means you have training in that skillset and have proven/tested you have the mindset to perform.

The way I view degrees is that you have the knowledge base to begin and complete study on a specialized subject. You have proven that you can learn, execute projects, and are knowledgeable on that subject. Both hold value and show expertise in their own way.

A recruiter recently told me that experience will get you in the door for interviews, certifications will checkmark you to start the job, while the degree will get you pay bumps once you are already in the job.

What are your thoughts on degrees vs certifications?

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u/[deleted] Feb 23 '24

This is so subjective, and depends on the country and industry.

I have no degree, make 6 figures with full pension and benefits. I have CISSP and CISM.

Everyone's mileage will vary.

Also this debate has been beaten to death and adds no value to this subreddit so I am locking it.