2024 Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst Beta Participants

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Signup Deadline: 25 Jul, 2024
Starts: 16 Aug, 2024
Ends: 30 Sep, 2024

Description:

ISACA is seeking volunteers to participate in a closed beta for a new cybersecurity certification in development – Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst (CCOA). Selected volunteers will be one of the first to experience the program at a deeply discounted rate and provide feedback as ISACA finalizes this new certification as part of our world class credentialing portfolio. 

Please note: eligible applicants will be approved on a rolling basis, and space is limited; review the timeline below for further details. We anticipate a very high volume of applicants and not everyone who applies will be selected. Do not delay in applying.

Selected volunteers will be required to purchase the CCOA exam package for a deeply discounted rate of US $299. If you are unable to purchase the package, please refrain from applying.

Timeline (please see Anticipated Outcomes for more detailed instructions):

  • Eligible applicants will be approved between 27 June and 16 August, or until all spots are filled.
  • Exam Preparation:
    • Upon approval, volunteers will receive a link to purchase the CCOA Questions, Answers, and Explanations (QAE) Database for US $299. This is required for participation.
      • Volunteers may also purchase a self-paced online review course for an additional US $199. This is not required to participate in the beta period.
    • After purchasing the QAE, volunteers will receive a voucher to redeem the CCOA Review Manual and CCOA Certification Exam free of charge.
    • After purchasing/receiving access to the exam prep material, volunteers should begin studying and preparing to sit for the CCOA exam.
  • CCOA Exam:
    • Volunteers will take the certification exam anytime between 1 September-30 September.
      • The exam will be self-scheduled, using the voucher provided, through ISACA’s exam administrator, PSI.
    • The exam must be completed by 30 September.

Anticipated Outcomes:

Beta participants will play a critical role in shaping the final pieces of the Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst (CCOA) program. Participants are expected to work through the exam prep materials and sit for the certification exam by September 30th, 2024. 

  • The Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst exam is a hybrid exam consisting of both knowledge-based questions and performance-based questions.
  • Participants that have been accepted into the beta must purchase the CCOA QAE for US $299. A link to the product page will be provided in a separate email after approval.
  • After purchasing the QAE, individuals will receive an email with a voucher code for the CCOA Review Manual and CCOA Certification Exam.
  • Included in the QAE are thirteen lab exercises. Each lab ranges between one and two hours of seat time. Participants must be able to dedicate the time necessary to master the skills taught in the labs so they can be successful at the certification exam.
    • If participants would like additional exam prep, they will be able to purchase a self-paced online review course for an additional $199.  Purchase of this product is not required to participate in the beta.
  • Participants should start preparing for the certification exam after obtaining exam prep material.
  • The certification exam will be open between September 1st – September 30th. Volunteers must complete the certification exam by September 30th.
    • Test results will not be delivered until the CCOA program officially launches in Q1 2025.
    • Participants who pass the exam will become a Certified Cybersecurity Operations Analyst and officially obtain the certification.
  • Participants will receive a survey via email and must complete it to provide feedback to ISACA after they have completed the certification exam.
  • Selected participants may be asked to complete a 1:1 virtual interview with ISACA staff about their experience.
  • Participants will only have one exam attempt.

Volunteer Criteria:

  • ISACA Membership is not required.
  • Products are only available in English; volunteers must be comfortable reading, learning, and taking the exam in English.
  • Approved volunteers must purchase the beta materials for US $299.
  • A minimum of two years experience in cybersecurity is required.
  • Capability of performing cybersecurity related technical tasks is required.
  • Volunteers must be available to start preparing for the CCOA exam  upon receiving access to the exam prep material and sit for the certification exam no later than 30 September 2024.
  • Stable Internet connectivity required. Note: Internet speeds and quality vary and can impact a candidate's exam experience in the form of slower lab responses (i.e. lag). Although PSI remote proctoring and LODS labs can function at slower speeds, ISACA recommends minimum speed for labs of 5 mbps down and 2 mbps up internet speeds for the duration of the exam. If you lose Internet connectivity during the exam, your session may be terminated, and results voided.

Volunteer Benefits:

  • Early access to ISACA’s newest certification and exam passers will be fully recognized as CCOA certification holders.
  • Approved volunteers receive the CCOA exam material at a deep discount through beta pricing.
  • Volunteers will have a direct impact on the finalization of the CCOA program.
  • Discounted access to professional development and credibility amongst peers.
  • Exam passers will also earn a one-year education waver towards CISM.
  • Exam passers will earn the official CCOA digital badge.
  • All participants, regardless of whether they pass or fail the exam, will receive a CCOA Beta Digital Badge.
  • CPE:
    • Successful exam passers will earn 4 CPE for completing and earning the certification.
    • Select volunteers will earn an additional 1 CPE in the category of Contributions to the Profession (maximum 20 CPE in this category annually) for completing a 1:1 interview with ISACA staff.

All volunteers must have an ISACA Participation Agreement on file.  To see if your agreement is active, visit your volunteer profile. Access all volunteer policies here.

Interests:

Credentials
Infosecurity/cybersecurity

Volunteers Needed:

200 (0 open slots)

Experience Required:

1 to 3 Years Industry Experience

Engagement Points:

13

Staff Facilitator:

John Flanagan

ISACA's Philosophy on Volunteer Engagement

ISACA encourages the active participation of our dedicated professional community in relevant, compelling and innovative activities at both the regional and international levels. With appreciation for the talent, expertise and experience each person contributes, volunteers and staff work collaboratively to fulfill ISACA's purpose and promise, while benefiting from incredible experiences and accomplishments that instill confidence in our professional and personal growth.