College students, or professionals who want to make a career change, might want to look into seeing what it takes to become and information technology auditor. If you are interested in an IT career that is brimming with career potential, this field holds plenty of opportunity. As our society becomes increasingly reliant on technology, according to Infosec Institute, it is important to have IT professionals who can evaluate processes and policies to ensure compliance.
What Does an Information Technology Auditor Do?
Before committing to the process of becoming an information technology auditor, it will help to learn more about the growing field. The primary responsibilities of an IT auditor include monitoring and reporting on the organization’s internal controls and determining the risks to the organization’s computing network, according to the Houston Chronicle. An information system auditor needs to stay aware of all regulations and rules that apply to their organization or industry and ensure continuous compliance.
Who Hires Information Systems Auditors?
It is always good to know the type of environment in which you will work once you obtain your education and necessary certification in IT auditing. Depending on your interests, you might end up working in a financial institution, an insurance company, a healthcare provide provider, an accounting firm, an accounting and information technology company, or any company in any industry that utilizes a technological network.
Will It Pay Off to Pursue a Career in Information Technology Auditing?
Salary.com reports that, as of February 2017, the annual average salary for an IT auditor is $58,271, with a range from $52,622-$68,558. Professionals who hold Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) can sometimes garner the $100,000 salary range, depending on a particular industry’s demand.
How Can You Start Your Path Toward Becoming an Auditor in the IT World?
Once you have decided this career path is the right one for you, can start with the following steps to become in information technology auditor.
Pursue your Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree
Choose to study either computer information systems or information technology to prepare you for future studies. A few of the key classes and areas of study you will encounter include “the basics of programming, networking, systems development, and computer architecture,” according to Learn.org. For the balance necessary in an information technology auditing position, you will also need to explore studies in organizational management, accounting, and business behavior.
Commit to an IT Auditing Internship
Real-world experience complements your educational experience and is particularly effective if you are able to do them simultaneously. Ideally, you can find an information system auditing internship in your desired industry. With such an experience, you can see what a day-in-the-life of an IT auditor is truly like and how your skills and knowledge stacks up to the position.
Obtain Your Certification
Many auditors in IT obtain certification as a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), the CISA designation, issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), is considered the gold standard in the IT auditing realm, according to the Institute of Internal Auditors.
Related Resources:
- 5 Great Books for Auditors
- Become a Finance Director
- How Do You Become an Information Technology Auditor?
- What Careers are in Information Management and Technology Assurance?
- What Is an Information Technology Accountant?
- What is an Information Technology Auditor?
- What is Information Management and Technology Assurance?
