5 certifications that can help you become a Cryptographer
These certifications equip you with the essential skills to become a cryptographer.
Stepping into the world of cryptography can feel incredibly challenging, especially when you're not sure which certifications will actually give you the right skills to succeed. It's a bit like trying to build a super-secure digital vault without knowing where to even start.
At its heart, cryptography is the art of keeping secrets safe. It's about scrambling information so cleverly that only the person meant to see it can understand it, even if someone else tries to snoop. Think of it as the invisible shield protecting everything from your online shopping to your private messages every single day.
If you're ready to learn these essential skills and show you're serious about this important field, here are 5 certifications that can truly help you begin your journey into cryptography.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
1. (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
This is a brand-new, entry-level certification from a top cybersecurity organisation. It covers the basic ideas of cybersecurity, including how we keep information private and safe, which touches on simple cryptography concepts.
Why it’s needed: It's an excellent first step to show employers you understand fundamental security ideas and are serious about a career in the field, even with no prior experience.
What it helps you achieve: You'll gain a basic understanding of key security principles, including the building blocks of secure communication. It sets you up for more advanced learning.
Requirements: No work experience or formal education is required. Just pass the exam.
Price: Around $199 USD for the exam.
2. EC-Council Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES)
This certification focuses specifically on the core ideas behind encryption, a major part of cryptography. You'll learn how different methods of scrambling data work, like those used for secure websites.
Why it’s needed: If you want to specialise in how data is actually secured using codes, this is a dedicated starting point. It provides a deep dive into the "how-to" of encryption.
What it helps you achieve: You'll gain practical knowledge to understand, choose, and even help set up different ways to encrypt information. You'll grasp the fundamental ideas that make all secure communication possible.
Requirements: No strict prerequisites, making it very accessible for beginners. A basic understanding of computers is helpful. You just need to pass a written exam.
Price: Around $249 USD for the exam voucher.
3. CompTIA Security+
Security+ is a widely recognised entry-level certification for broad cybersecurity skills. It covers protecting computer networks, identifying digital dangers, and provides a practical introduction to how cryptography helps keep things secure.
Why it’s needed: It's a very popular and respected starting point for almost any job in cybersecurity. For someone interested in cryptography, it gives you a solid base, showing how the "secret-keeping" part fits into the bigger picture of keeping entire systems safe.
What it helps you achieve: You'll get a strong, all-around understanding of security rules and practical ways to keep things safe. It proves you know how different ways of scrambling data are used in real computer systems to fight off digital attacks.
Requirements: CompTIA recommends about two years of IT administration experience with a security focus, but it's not strictly required. Many people pass without it. You just need to pass one exam.
Price: Around $392 USD for the exam.
4. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
This is a comprehensive online program from Google, designed to teach skills for entry-level cybersecurity jobs. It covers topics like identifying threats, securing networks, and understanding how data is protected (which includes cryptography).
Why it’s needed: It's a great option if you prefer structured online learning with practical exercises. Google is a well-known name, and this certificate aims to prepare you for actual jobs, with connections to employers who recognise it.
What it helps you achieve: You'll gain practical, job-ready skills for roles like a cybersecurity analyst. It covers the basics of digital security, including how encryption helps keep things private, and prepares you for real-world situations.
Requirements: No prior experience or college degree is required. It's designed for anyone interested in starting a career in cybersecurity. You complete a series of online courses.
Price: Typically offered through Coursera, which costs around $49 USD per month, so the total cost depends on how quickly you complete it (often 3-6 months).
5. GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
GSEC is a respected entry-level certification that focuses on practical security skills. It covers how to secure networks, handle security issues, and includes key ideas about how cryptography works and is used.
Why it’s needed: It's known for its emphasis on hands-on learning, which is great if you prefer to learn by doing. It shows you understand not just the ideas, but also how to actually apply security controls, including those that use cryptography.
What it helps you achieve: This certification proves you understand how various security tools and methods are put into action to protect data and computer systems. For someone interested in cryptography, it solidifies your understanding of where digital "secret-keeping" fits into overall system defense.
Requirements: No formal prerequisites, but having some basic computer or networking experience is recommended. You need to pass one proctored exam.
Price: Around $999 USD for the exam attempt (often purchased with SANS training).
Conclusion
Starting a career in cryptography can feel overwhelming. However, these 5 entry-level certifications offer clear, practical pathways to build foundational knowledge, gain essential skills, and demonstrate your commitment to potential employers. By investing in these credentials, you're not just learning about digital locks and keys; you're actively preparing yourself to become a vital guardian in our increasingly connected world.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
