Data security is a growing concern for businesses and organizations in 2025. In 2024, there were high-profile data breaches and cyber attacks, such as CrowdStrike, Microsoft Outage, and Ascension.
As a result, the need for professionals with expertise in risk and compliance management is higher than ever before. Obtaining a certification in risk and compliance can be a smart move for your career. But which ones are the most valuable and will truly boost your career with so many certifications available?
In this article, we’ll explore the top risk and compliance certifications for 2025.
Why are Certifications for Risk and Compliance Important?
Certifications in risk and compliance management are important for several reasons.
Risk certifications provide a standardized framework and knowledge base for professionals in the field. Employers can be assured that the individual has a certain level of expertise with a certification. You can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in risk assessment, compliance regulations, and mitigation strategies.
Additionally, certifications can result in increased pay and opportunities for career progression. Having a particular certification can help you stand out from the competition, as many employers prefer to hire people with it.
Top Risk and Compliance Certifications to Consider
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)², offers the renowned CISSP certification. It is a globally recognized certification for professionals in information security, including risk management and compliance.
To obtain this certification, you need at least five years of experience in two or more of the eight domains covered in the exam, as well as a passing score on the exam. The domains covered include security and risk management, asset security, communication and network security, security assessment and testing, and more.
2. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP)
The Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE) offers the CCEP certification, which is designed for professionals in compliance and ethics roles. It covers topics such as laws and regulations, risk assessment and management, internal controls and auditing, and more.
To obtain this certification, you must pass a 2-hour exam and have experience in the compliance and ethics field. They assess your knowledge, skills, and abilities in business scenarios and real-world case studies.
When you have a CCEP certification, you demonstrate your competence in identifying and addressing potential compliance risks within an organization.
3. Certified Information Privacy Professional/US (CIPP/US)
The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) offers the CIPP/US certification, which is focused on privacy and data protection laws in the United States. This certification can be beneficial for professionals involved in risk management and compliance with regard to data security.
A CIPP/US certification calls for passing an exam proving understanding of US privacy laws and regulations. The certification is good for two years; you must build continuing education credits to keep it.
4. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
The CRISC certification, offered by ISACA, is designed for professionals who have experience in risk identification, assessment, and evaluation. ISACA is a global association that focuses on IT governance, assurance, and cybersecurity.
Any professional with at least three years of experience in IT risk management and information systems control can obtain this certification. The exam covers four domains: identification, assessment, response, and monitoring of IT risks. It also focuses on IT risk management policies and frameworks.
5. Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS)
The Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS) offers the CAMS certification. It is designed for professionals working in anti-money laundering roles, including risk and compliance management. The industries that benefit most from this certification include banking, financial services, and law enforcement.
You must have at least 40 hours of AML training within the past three years and pass a rigorous exam. The exam covers topics such as money laundering methods, compliance programs, risk assessment, and more.
6. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
ISACA also offers the CISA certification, which focuses on auditing and information systems control. This certification is ideal for professionals who want to have a strong understanding of IT audit processes and controls.
Professionals with at least five years of experience in information systems auditing, control, or security can obtain this certification. No specific training or coursework is required, but you must pass an exam covering topics such as IT audit and assurance, risk identification and assessment, and more.
7. Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP)
The Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) offers the CRMP certification, which focuses on risk management in business settings. It is designed for professionals who work in risk management roles and want to demonstrate their expertise in identifying, assessing, and managing risks.
You have to demonstrate your experience in identifying and analyzing risks, developing risk management strategies, and implementing risk management programs to obtain this certification. RIMS offers preparatory courses for the certification exam.
8. Governance, Risk and Compliance Professional (GRCP)
Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development (OECD) offers GRCP certification that is focused on governance, risk, and compliance. Professionals who hold this certification prove that they are knowledgeable and adept at recognizing and controlling risks as well as making sure that rules and laws are followed.
The certification process involves passing an exam covering corporate governance principles, enterprise risk management strategies, compliance frameworks, and ethical standards. For those employed in risk management and compliance positions within multinational corporations, this certification is quite valuable.
9. Chartered Enterprise Risk Analyst (CERA)
CERA certification is designed for professionals who want to specialize in enterprise risk management. The Society of Actuaries offers this certification, which is recognized globally.
The criteria for obtaining this certification include passing the SP9 exam and completing the ERM module. You must also have at least three years of relevant experience in actuarial science or risk management roles. Membership in the Society of Actuaries is also required. It takes almost 3 to 4 years to complete all the requirements and obtain the CERA certification.
Finance and Business Risk Certifications
1. Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) offers the FRM certification, which is focused on risk management in the financial sector. This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in financial risk analysis and management.
The exam for the FRM certification covers two parts – Part I and Part II. You must pass FRM Part 2 within four years of passing the FRM Part 1 exam. You must have at least two years of financial risk management experience to earn the certification.
The exam covers topics like credit risk, market risk, operational and integrated risk management, and quantitative analysis.
2. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
The CFE certification is available to professionals who work in fraud prevention, detection, and investigation. This certification is recognized globally and offered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE).
In addition to passing a comprehensive exam, you must have at least two years of relevant work experience in fraud-related roles. The topics covered in the exam include financial transactions and fraud schemes, law, investigation, and more.
3. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The CFA certification is offered by the CFA Institute and is globally recognized as a mark of excellence in investment management. The program covers topics such as ethical and professional standards, financial analysis, portfolio management, and more.
More than just an exam, the CFA program requires a combination of rigorous coursework and relevant work experience. It is considered one of the most prestigious certifications in the finance industry.
You must pass three levels of exams and have at least four years of relevant work experience to obtain this certification. With a focus on investment management, this certification is ideal for professionals working in roles such as portfolio managers, research analysts, and risk managers.
4. Professional Risk Manager (PRM)
The Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) offers the PRM certification. This certification is designed for professionals who have a strong understanding of risk management principles and their practical application.
To obtain this certification, you must pass four exams covering topics such as financial markets, risk measurement and modeling, credit risk and counterparty credit risk, and operational risk. You must also have at least two years of relevant work experience in risk management or a related field.
The PRM certification is recognized globally and is ideal for professionals working in risk management, trading, investment banking, and more. It is a valuable addition to any resume in the finance industry.
Health Care Risk Certifications
1. Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM)
American Hospital Association (AHA) offers the CPHRM certification, which is designed for professionals in healthcare risk management. When obtaining this certification, you will develop skills in risk assessment and management, loss prevention, and patient safety.
To be eligible for the CPHRM exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree and at least one year of experience in healthcare risk management. People with other relevant education, such as a master’s degree in healthcare administration or nursing, can also apply for the certification.
The exam covers topics such as risk management fundamentals, patient safety and quality improvement, compliance and legal issues, and more. It is a valuable certification for those working in healthcare organizations to mitigate risks and ensure patient safety.
2. Healthcare Compliance Certification (HCCA)
The Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA) offers the HCCA certification, which is designed for professionals in healthcare compliance. This certification is recognized globally and demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the healthcare compliance field.
A bachelor’s degree and at least one year of experience in healthcare compliance are required to be eligible for the exam. The topics covered in the exam include laws and regulations, risk management, auditing and monitoring, ethics and professionalism, and more.
This certification is ideal for professionals working in roles such as compliance officers, auditors, privacy officers, and more. It demonstrates a commitment to ethical standards and compliance within the healthcare industry.
3. Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS)
The CHPS certification is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and is designed for professionals who handle sensitive patient information. This certification focuses on privacy, security, and the legal requirements of handling healthcare data.
To obtain this certification, you must have at least four years of experience in healthcare privacy or security. The exam covers topics such as HIPAA regulations, risk management strategies, incident response procedures, and more.
With a growing need for healthcare organizations to protect patient data, the CHPS certification is becoming increasingly valuable. It is ideal for professionals working in roles such as privacy officers, security analysts, compliance officers, and more.
Conclusion
Obtaining a risk management certification can be a valuable investment in your career. These certifications demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field, making you stand out to potential employers.
Whether you work in finance or healthcare, there are various certifications available to help you enhance your skills and advance your career in risk management. So, research the different options and choose the one that best fits your interests and goals.
Keep in mind that these certifications often require a combination of education, work experience, and passing exams. Therefore, it is essential to prepare thoroughly and stay updated on industry developments and best practices.
With dedication and hard work, you can add a prestigious risk management certification to your resume. So go ahead and take the first step towards advancing your career in risk management.