The question of what certifications are available in Management Information Systems (MIS) is often best answered by job categories and the industry in which the information technology (IT) professional wants to work. For instance, special certifications are associated with MIS careers in network security and project management while those working in the health care and financial services industries have opportunities to showcase their talents with IT certifications as well. Here are some popular MIS certifications for the job categories and industries described above.
Information Systems Security Architecture Professional
Network security is a major concern within the IT industry and in every other industry that has businesses using computer networks to operate. While businesses with older computing systems rely on information security analysts to assess network vulnerabilities and recommend solutions to mitigate security risks, new businesses can introduce the latest network security features into the network’s design. An IT professional working in the role of network architect researches the latest IT solutions and applies the appropriate ones to the new architecture. Those with at least two years of network architecture work experience can earn the certification for Information Systems Security Architecture Professional after taking an exam administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc.
Project Management Professional
MIS professionals who have worked on IT project teams and want to move into careers with greater responsibilities investigate the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification issued by the Project Management Institute. Workers in MIS usually gain technical experience in multiple team roles and land the job of project manager after several successful years of experience. If these MIS professionals have a bachelor’s degree and three years of experience leading projects, they can apply to take the PMP exam for certification. This internationally recognized project management certification opens up more career opportunities than most other project management related designations.
Certified Associate in Health Care Information and Management Systems
Because of the sensitive nature of patient information and the traditional paper based culture that was prevalent among hospitals and other medical facilities, the health care industry was one of the last to extensively adopt integrated computer systems. Advancements in computer security, greater privacy regulations and pressure from government entities to streamline health care processes to pave the way for health care reform measures have put health care information technology into the spot light. IT professionals who work to manage and secure health care computer systems often take the exam and gain the Certified Associate in Health Care Information and Management Systems through the Health Care Information and Management Systems Society.
Certified Community Bank Technology Officer
The financial services and banking industries are other sectors that must safeguard sensitive information. The Independent Community Bankers of America offers IT professionals working in the banking industry with the opportunity to display their current knowledge of related industry regulations and operational skills through the Certified Community Bank Technology Officer designation.
Related Resource: Become a Technical Consultant
Conclusion
The MIS field offers some exciting career opportunities for those with the right skill sets, and those skills are gained through continued education and training. Often the best way for IT professionals to demonstrate their IT skills to current and future employers is by gaining one or more of the many certifications available in Management Information Systems.
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