How Do I Become an Information System Auditor?

An information system auditor looks for potential security risks in a company's network, physical systems and applications and often works in the finance, accounting and general technology fields. He or she follows a specific system auditing process and documents all findings in a report that shows all the potential threats. Information system auditors also determine the extent to which the found security risks could affect the organization and provides recommended solutions to the risks. To become an information system auditor, you will need a bachelor's degree related to technology or finance, multiple years of experience in information security and, possibly, some information security certifications.

A bachelor's degree is normally the minimum requirement for most information system auditing jobs. To become an information system auditor, you should major in information technology, management information systems, computer science or information security. You may choose to major in finance or accounting, however, if you want to work as an auditor in the finance field. Those who want to have opportunities in both general technology and finance also might choose to major in a technology field and minor in accounting or finance. Dual majors also are possible and can expand your career opportunities.

The Certified Information Systems Auditor® (CISA®) certification is a common requirement to become an information system auditor, but you have to have five years of experience in information systems before you can take the exam. Although general information technology professionals take the exam, it's especially common for those who work in finance and hold degrees unrelated to technology. The exam covers areas including the systems auditing process, systems management, asset protection, information support and disaster recovery. The Certified Information Systems Security Professional® (CISSP®) certification is a common requirement, as well, and covers access control, application security, disaster recovery, cryptography, cyber laws, physical security, network security, risk management and more.

The variety of technical skills the role requires means information system auditing is rarely an entry-level career. To become an information system auditor, you will need multiple years of experience in the technology field, specifically in a security auditing role. Some employers may require as few as two years of work experience in technology, but others may want candidates to have worked five or more years in information security. Employers also require experience in multiple areas of information technology, including the use of auditing tools, data analysis, networking, operating systems, database management and systems development.