Executive Summary
41% of cybersecurity professionals feel unprepared to secure AI/ML systems (ISC2 AI in Cyber 2024), creating unprecedented demand for certified AI security expertise. Over one-third of organizations cite AI as their biggest skills gap.
ISACA launched the first AI-centric security certification (AAISM) in 2025, while ISC2 introduced AI strategy certificates for existing CISSP holders. This guide compares all major programs, prerequisites, and career paths.[1]
In This Guide
AI Security Certification Landscape
The AI security certification market exploded in 2024-2025 as organizations scrambled to address the security implications of widespread AI adoption. Two major credentialing bodies now offer AI-specific security certifications, while several others have added AI content to existing programs.
The Market Gap
ISC2's AI in Cyber 2024 survey revealed the scale of the problem: 41% of professionals feel unprepared to secure AI/ML systems, and 82% want specific regulations governing AI security. Meanwhile, ISACA's AI Pulse Poll found that 95% of digital trust professionals worry that generative AI will be exploited by bad actors.[1]
Major Certification Programs
ISACA AAISM
Advanced in AI Security Management
The first and only credential specifically focused on AI security management. Requires CISM or CISSP as prerequisite.
ISC2 AI Security Certificate
Building AI Strategy Certificate
Six courses covering responsible, ethical, and secure AI adoption. Designed for CISSP holders seeking AI specialization.
ISC2 AI for Cybersecurity
Foundational Course
3-hour on-demand course covering AI applications in cybersecurity. Entry point for those new to AI security.
ISACA AAISM: The First AI Security Certification
ISACA's Advanced in AI Security Management (AAISM) launched in 2025 as the first and only credential of its kind. It's designed to equip cybersecurity leaders with specialized skills needed to manage evolving AI security risks, implement policy, and ensure responsible AI use.[2]
AAISM at a Glance
Prerequisites
- CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), OR
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
Key Domains
- AI governance and policy
- AI security risk assessment
- AI technology deployment and controls
- Responsible AI implementation
Prerequisite Barrier
AAISM requires CISM or CISSP, meaning candidates need 5+ years of security experience before specializing in AI security. This ensures depth but limits accessibility for early-career professionals.
ISC2 AI Security Programs
ISC2 launched the Building AI Strategy Certificate alongside six courses designed to help cybersecurity professionals lead AI adoption securely. The program positions CISSP holders as security leaders in AI-centric workplaces.[3]
| Program | Duration | CPE Credits | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building AI Strategy Certificate | 6 courses | 18+ | Security leaders |
| AI for Cybersecurity | 3 hours | 3 | All security professionals |
| Securing AI Strategy Workshop | 2 days | 16 | Enterprise teams |
Certification Comparison
| Factor | ISACA AAISM | ISC2 AI Certificate | IAPP AIGP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | AI Security Management | AI Strategy & Security | AI Governance & Ethics |
| Prerequisites | CISM or CISSP | None (CISSP recommended) | None |
| Best For | Security managers | Security architects | Privacy/compliance pros |
| Technical Depth | High | High | Medium |
| Regulatory Coverage | AI security controls | Enterprise AI policy | EU AI Act, NIST AI RMF |
Which Should You Choose?
- AAISM: If you're a CISM/CISSP holder wanting to specialize in AI security management
- ISC2 AI Certificate: If you're a security architect needing AI strategy skills
- AIGP: If you're in privacy/compliance and need AI governance expertise (see our AIGP guide)
Career Paths & ROI
AI security certification opens doors to specialized roles that command premium compensation. The skills gap is severe—ISC2 research shows over one-third of organizations cite AI as their biggest skills shortfall.[1]
AI Security Roles
- AI Security Architect
- AI/ML Security Engineer
- AI Red Team Lead
- Chief AI Security Officer
Industry Demand
- Financial services (AI fraud detection)
- Healthcare (HIPAA AI compliance)
- Tech (LLM security)
- Government (AI risk management)
Preparation Strategy
Recommended Learning Path
Foundation: OWASP Top 10 for LLMs
Understand the core LLM security risks including prompt injection, data poisoning, and supply chain attacks.
Frameworks: NIST AI RMF & ISO 42001
Master the NIST AI Risk Management Framework and ISO 42001 standards.
Hands-On: AI Red Teaming
Practice with tools like PyRIT and Garak. See our AI Red Teaming guide for methodologies.
Certification Exam
Register for AAISM (if CISM/CISSP holder) or ISC2 AI Certificate program.
References
- [1] ISC2. "ISC2 Launches AI Security Certificate." July 2025. (41% unprepared, 82% want regulation)
- [2] ISACA. "AAISM Certification." 2025.
- [3] ISC2. "AI for Cybersecurity Course." 2025.
- [4] ISACA. "ISACA Introduces First AI-Centric Security Management Certification." 2025.
Disclaimer: Certification requirements and pricing may change. Verify current details with ISACA and ISC2 directly. This guide is for informational purposes only.