- Malware analyst certifications and costs
- Renewal/Continuing education
- Jobs and salary info
- Related resources
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Malware analysts are the cybersecurity world’s code detectives — experts who dissect and reverse-engineer malicious software to uncover how it operates, spreads, and impacts systems.
Their deep technical knowledge provides the intelligence that fuels incident response, digital forensics, and threat hunting.
Earning a malware analyst certification validates mastery in these highly specialized skills, from reverse engineering (RE) and binary analysis to network forensics and threat attribution.
Certifications help professionals prove their technical competence, stay ahead of evolving malware threats, and advance in one of cybersecurity’s most complex and in-demand career paths.
This guide explores the top malware analyst certifications, what they cover, who they’re for, and how they can elevate your expertise in defending against the world’s most sophisticated cyber threats.
Malware analyst certifications
While many general security certifications touch upon malware, a few are recognized as being specifically focused on the advanced skills needed for deep malware analysis and reverse engineering.
GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) – The Benchmark
- Prerequisites:
- No formal prerequisites.
- Strongly Recommended: Extensive experience with digital forensics, assembly language, and C/C++.
- Most candidates take the associated SANS course: FOR610: Reverse-Engineering Malware.
- Exam Information:
- Exam Format: Proctored, non-practical exam (multiple-choice).
- Number of Questions: 66 questions.
- Time Limit: 3 hours.
- Passing Score: 73%.
- Estimated Cost (Exam Only):
- Approximately $2,499. (This cost does not include the SANS training course).
EC-Council Certified Reverse Engineering Analyst (C|REA)
- Prerequisites:
- Complete official EC-Council training, OR
- Have at least 2 years of verified information security experience (requires a non-refundable $100 application fee for eligibility).
- Exam Information:
- Exam Format: Typically a mix of multiple-choice (knowledge) and practical exams (skills), as is common for advanced EC-Council tracks.
- Estimated Cost (Exam Only):
- Typically falls within the $950–$1,200 range for an advanced EC-Council exam voucher.
Certificate Renewal and Continuing Education
Maintaining these certifications ensures that analysts keep up with the rapid evolution of malware and anti-analysis techniques.
- GIAC GREM Renewal:
- Renewal Period: 4 years.
- Requirements: Earn 36 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over the four years and pay a renewal fee (around $469).
- CPEs are earned through activities like taking related training, teaching, writing articles, attending conferences, or publishing research.11 Candidates can also opt to retake the current exam.
- EC-Council (C|REA) Renewal:
- Renewal Period: 3 years.
- Requirements: Earn 120 EC-Council Continuing Education (ECE) credits within the three-year cycle and pay an annual membership fee (approximately $80/year).
- ECE credits cover a broad range of professional development activities, including training, research, and self-study.
In a field where attackers are constantly innovating, malware analyst certifications are more than just resume builders; they are a commitment to maintaining a crucial, high-demand skill set.
Certification jobs and malware analyst salary information
Certifications can lead to better jobs and more money.
Certified Ethical Hackers can find work in several different industries. Some of the most common positions include malware analyst, penetration tester, security analyst, and security consultant.
The CEH certification is a good option for those who want to enter the cybersecurity field or who are looking for a career change. It is also a good certification for those who want to move into a leadership role within their organization.
OSCP-certified professionals work in much the same roles as CEH certification holders. The emphasis on offensive skills and tactics makes them ideal for malware analysts.
OSCP holders can also find work in other areas such as system administration, audit, and forensics. With additional experience and training, OSCP-certified professionals may be able to move into roles such as vulnerability assessment engineer, incident response handler, or malware reverse engineer.
A CISSP certification is widely recognized and respected in the cybersecurity industry. It demonstrates that the holder has a comprehensive understanding of information security and is capable of managing an organization’s information systems.
Many leadership jobs in the cybersecurity field require a CISSP certification. Positions that commonly require a CISSP include CISO and security engineer.
A malware analyst can earn an excellent living in North America. In fact, according to Glassdoor, the average salary for this position is over $125k per year.
Of course, salaries will vary depending on experience, education, and location. For example, analysts working in major cities such as New York or Los Angeles typically earn more than those working in smaller towns or rural areas.
However, regardless of location, a malware analyst can expect to make a very competitive salary. And with the ever-growing threat of cybercrime, the demand for skilled analysts is only likely to increase in the years to come.
Related resources
Conclusion
Professional certification is an essential tool for success in any field. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, a professional certification can be the key to success.
Earning a certification demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills required to excel in your chosen profession. In addition, a certification can help you to stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or promotions.
Furthermore, many employers offer incentives for employees with professional certifications, such as higher pay or bonuses. Finally, a professional certification can give you a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that you have achieved a significant milestone in your career.
If you want to advance your career as a malware analyst, consider gaining one or more of the professional certifications mentioned in this guide.
Be sure to check with the supporting organization for each certification to get all the details on what is required before taking the plunge. The benefits of having a certification will far outweigh the costs, and you can usually recoup the investment in only a few short months.
Frequently asked questions
It’s a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in analyzing and understanding the behavior of malicious software, including viruses, worms, and trojans.
It can enhance your credibility in the cybersecurity field, increase job opportunities, and potentially lead to higher pay.
Several organizations, including EC-Council (Certified Malware Investigator), GIAC (Reverse Engineering Malware), and CompTIA (CySA+), offer malware analysis certifications.
Many organizations offer training courses. Additionally, self-study using books, online resources, and hands-on malware analysis labs can be effective.
While other cybersecurity certifications may cover a broad range of topics, malware analyst certifications focus specifically on the skills needed to analyze and reverse-engineer malicious software.
Yes, after gaining experience, professionals can pursue advanced certifications in related areas like threat intelligence, incident response, or advanced penetration testing.
Remember, the field of malware analysis is constantly evolving. Regularly updating your skills and knowledge is crucial to staying relevant and effective in the role. If you’re considering a certification, thorough research and preparation will be key to your success.