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Professional Titles

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By developing professional registration schemes, governments and professionals can help the maturing cyber security profession, which requires specialist insight and continuous development. Cyber security professionals work across various areas to prioritise the safety of individuals and employers. By demonstrating professional competence and ethical operation, they earn trust and achieve professional registration.

Professional registration assures that individuals meet current cyber security standards and are committed to ongoing learning through Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It is crucial for the growing maturity of the cyber security sector, as it provides confidence to employers, governments, and society in the competence and ethical behavior of cyber security professionals.

CREST is actively supporting the development of professional registration in the UK and globally, collaborating with different governing bodies to enhance standards and recognition within the cyber security profession.

What are UK CSC Professional Titles?



The UK Cyber Security Council (UK CSC) is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and diverse cyber security industry, supporting individuals as they develop the skills necessary to achieve global cyber excellence.

Through this programme, cyber professionals can apply for Professional Titles aligned with the UK CSC’s Professional Standard. Each title requires increasing levels of demonstrable experience and expertise.

Becoming professionally registered not only reflects an individual's commitment to their industry but also provides proof that their skills have been validated in a practical, work-based environment. This recognition can also open opportunities for career development.

Professional Registration

As an organisation granted Royal Chartered status, the UK Cyber Security Council has the authority to set industry standards and award professional titles to those working in the cyber profession.

CREST, approved as a Licensed Body in 2023, assesses and recommends individuals for Professional Titles. We are currently evaluating registrations for the Security Testing and Incident Response specialisms.

There are four professional registration titles aligned with the Council’s professional standard. These are:

Currently available

Chartered Cyber Security Professional (ChCSP)

Becoming Chartered is the highest recognition and a significant milestone in a professional’s career, validating their considerable expertise and competence.

 

Who Should Apply? 

– Professionals with significant practical knowledge in a broad range of specialisms. 

– Experts in a particular specialism, contributing to the development of the cyber security profession. 

 

Requirements: 

– Demonstrated competence and commitment in all areas outlined by the UK Cyber Security Council Standard for Professional Competence and Commitment (UK CSC SPCC). 

– Relevant qualifications that meet the Minimum Qualification Level depending on specialism. 

– Evidence of effective communication, management skills, integrity, and commitment to professional development. 

 

Key Competencies: 

– Effective communication and interpersonal skills at all levels. 

– Developed management skills, with the ability to lead and mentor. 

– High integrity, morals, and ethical values. 

– Commitment to continuous personal and professional development. 

Principal Cyber Security Professional (PCSP)

Achieving the Principal level is a significant milestone, recognising advanced expertise and leadership in the cyber security field. 

 

Who Should Apply? 

– Professionals with advanced practical knowledge in a range of specialisms.  

– Leaders in a particular specialism, driving the development of the cyber security profession. 

 

Requirements: 

– Demonstrated advanced competence and commitment in all areas outlined by the UK Cyber Security Council Standard for Professional Competence and Commitment (UK CSC SPCC). 

– Relevant qualifications that meet the Minimum Qualification Level depending on specialism. 

– Evidence of advanced communication, leadership skills, integrity, and commitment to professional development. 

 

Key Competencies: 

– Advanced communication and interpersonal skills at all levels. 

– Strong leadership skills, with the ability to lead and mentor teams. 

– High integrity, morals, and ethical values. 

– Commitment to continuous personal and professional development. 

Practitioner Cyber Security Professional (PraCSP)

Achieving the Practitioner level recognises practical experience and effective application of cyber security expertise. 

 

Who Should Apply? 

– Professionals with practical experience in cyber security. 

– Individuals effectively using their expertise in their current roles. 

 

Requirements: 

– Demonstrated competence and commitment in all areas outlined by the UK Cyber Security Council Standard for Professional Competence and Commitment (UK CSC SPCC). 

– Relevant qualifications that meet the Minimum Qualification Level depending on specialism. 

– Evidence of practical experience, communication skills, and commitment to professional development. 

 

Key Competencies: 

– Practical knowledge and experience in cyber security. 

– Effective communication and interpersonal skills. 

– Understanding of management skills and some supervisory experience. 

– Integrity, morals, and ethical values. 

– Commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Associate Cyber Security Professional (ACSP)

The Associate level is ideal for those starting their career in cyber security, demonstrating foundational knowledge and readiness for professional roles. 

 

Who Should Apply? 

– Individuals with foundational knowledge in cyber security. 

– Those ready for employment or currently employed in cyber security roles. 

 

Requirements: 

– Demonstrated competence in areas of cyber security knowledge. 

– Relevant qualifications that meet the Minimum Qualification Level. 

– Evidence of communication skills, integrity, and commitment to professional development. 

 

Key Competencies: 

– Foundational knowledge and application of cyber security expertise. 

– Reasonable communication and interpersonal skills. 

– Understanding of management skills and some supervised activities. 

– Integrity, morals, and ethical values. 

– Commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Why apply through CREST?

Flexible Application Process: Skip the formal interview. Complete an application form and provide an employer testimonial.

Inclusive and Time-Saving: Ideal for those who find interviews challenging, saving you valuable time.

Employer Support: Allows your employer to actively support your professional growth.

Join CREST’s global community: Become part of our network of thousands of cyber professionals.

Take the Next Step in Your Career: Apply through CREST and gain the career recognition you deserve.

Find out more about Professional Titles through CREST

Check out our useful information

The information on this page supports and is informed by the UK Cyber Security Council.