Converged Security Institute (CSI) Certification Policy

This policy establishes the certification requirements, standards, and procedures for the Converged Security Institute (CSI) credentials, in accordance with European Union law and regulations. This policy applies to the following four certifications: Converged Security & Cybersecurity Expert (CSCE), Converged Security Professional (CSP), Converged Security Leader (CSL), and Chartered Converged Security Practitioner (C-CSP).

Credential Pathway Overview

The CSI certification pathway follows a progressive structure designed to develop expertise from foundational knowledge to chartered practitioner level. Each step builds upon the last, creating a comprehensive journey towards mastery in converged security.

CSCE: Expert

Foundational certification covering threat modelling, cyber-physical integration, and compliance standards.

CSP: Professional

Strategic and operational training delivered in a small group format, focused on leadership and planning.

CSL: Leader

Awarded upon completion of both CSCE and CSP, recognising readiness for enterprise leadership roles.

C-CSP: Chartered Practitioner

The highest designation, awarded upon verified framework implementation and leadership experience.

2. Certification Requirements

The following sections detail the specific requirements for each of the four CSI credentials. Each certification is designed to build upon the previous one, creating a robust and comprehensive skill set for the modern security professional.

Converged Security & Cybersecurity Expert (CSCE)

Foundational Certification

Overview

The CSCE certificate is a core credential recognizing professionals with essential cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills for integrated physical and digital security environments. It's ideal for individuals from physical security, facilities, and operations backgrounds transitioning into converged roles, providing the foundational expertise to collaborate with IT teams and manage hybrid systems.

Requirements to Earn

Candidates must complete the CSCE program, which includes a final written assessment and exam. Key areas covered include:

Physical security technologies and cyber integration.
Threat modelling and compliance.
Protocols such as OSDP, ONVIF, BACnet, and TLS.
Access control models including RBAC, ABAC, and PBAC.
Alignment with frameworks like GDPR, ISO 27001, and NIS2.

No prior cybersecurity experience required. The program is designed for professionals entering converged roles.

Credential Details

Instructor: Led by Dr. Vladimir Bunic, PhD in Cybersecurity.
Format: Digital certificate and badge, verifiable and shareable.
Delivery: Issued within 24 hours of verified completion.
Validity: 3 years.
Eligibility: Adults 18+ Professional Candidates.

Converged Security Professional (CSP)

Advanced Certification

Overview

The CSP certificate is an advanced credential for individuals who have demonstrated strategic insight and operational leadership. It is intended for professionals who have completed the CSCE program and are ready to lead cross-functional teams, drive enterprise-wide security initiatives, and influence executive-level decision-making.

Requirements to Earn

Candidates must complete the CSP program. Performance is evaluated through participation and a final group presentation. Key program features include:

On-site delivery in a small group format.
Focus on strategic planning and executive-level decision-making.
Scenario-based workshops, tabletop exercises, and peer collaboration.
Coverage of governance, risk management, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

No additional exam required. Performance is evaluated through active participation and a final group presentation.

Credential Details

Instructor: Led by Dr. Vladimir Bunic, PhD in Cybersecurity.
Format: Digital certificate and badge, verifiable and shareable.
Delivery: Issued within 24 hours of verified completion.
Validity: 3 years.
Prerequisite: CSCE certification is required. For adults 18+ in the IT/Security Industry.

Converged Security Leadership (CSL)

Leadership Credential

Overview

The CSL certificate is the highest credential awarded by the institute, recognizing advanced expertise, strategic insight, and operational readiness. It is reserved for professionals who have completed both the CSCE and CSP programs and are prepared to lead security initiatives across enterprise, critical infrastructure, and smart environments.

Requirements to Earn

The CSL is awarded automatically upon verified completion of both prerequisite programs. It confirms mastery of technical, procedural, and strategic competencies.

Completion of the CSCE program (including final assessment and exam).
Completion of the CSP program (including on-site strategic training).

No additional exam and no additional costs. CSL is awarded upon verified completion of both CSCE and CSP.

Credential Details

Format: Digital certificate and badge, verifiable and shareable.
Delivery: Issued within 24 hours of verified completion of both CSCE and CSP.
Validity: 3 years.
Eligibility: Adults 18+ Professional Candidates in the IT/Security Industry who hold both CSCE and CSP.

Chartered Converged Security Practitioner (C-CSP)

Premier / Chartered Designation

Overview

The C-CSP is the premier designation recognizing elite-level leadership, strategic integration, and operational excellence in implementing enterprise-wide converged security frameworks. This credential represents the culmination of a rigorous professional journey, requiring real-world implementation of a unified security framework. C-CSP holders are recognized as architects of resilience, compliance, and cross-functional collaboration.

Eligibility Criteria

To earn the C-CSP credential, candidates must meet all of the following criteria:

Hold valid CSCE, CSP, and CSL certifications.
Have a minimum of five years in a managerial or leadership role within IT, cybersecurity, physical security, or risk management.
Demonstrate active fulfillment of the Converged Security Practitioner (CSP) role as defined in the organisational blueprint.
Be an active holder of a fellowship or chartered status from a recognised and partnered institution affiliated with the CSI.
Submit verifiable evidence of leading the implementation of a Converged Security Framework within an enterprise.

Framework Implementation Requirements

Candidates must provide documentation demonstrating leadership in the following areas:

Strategic integration of physical, cyber, and operational domains.
Cross-functional collaboration across IT, OT, compliance, and physical security.
Adoption of standards like ISO 31000, ISO 27001, ISO 22301, GDPR, and NIST.
Integration of systems such as SIEM, PSIM, IAM, and open architecture.
Maintenance of a unified risk register and shared KPIs.
Deployment of Zero Trust Architecture and SASE frameworks.
Execution of scenario-based training, incident simulations, and convergence maturity assessments.
Alignment with strategic business goals and executive endorsement.

Application Process & Fees

Interested candidates should first check their eligibility with the Administration Team at info@convergedsecurity.es. The process involves:

Eligibility Check: Contact the administration team.
Application Submission: Pay a non-refundable application fee of €50.
Review Period: Processing time is up to 30 days.
Acceptance: If accepted, a final fee of €450 is due.

The total credential fee is €500.

Credential Details

Format: Digital certificate and badge, verifiable and shareable.
Delivery: Issued upon verified completion of all prerequisites and the C-CSP implementation and approval process.
Validity: 3 years (Chartered Award).

1. Legal Compliance

This policy and all certification activities adhere to the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), UK GDPR, the European Union Cybersecurity Act, and the European Union Network and Information Security (NIS) Directive. Certificate holders are expected to comply with these regulations and any applicable national laws of EU member states.

3. Ethical Standards

All certificate holders must adhere to the CSI's Code of Conduct. Violation of these standards may result in disciplinary action, up to and including the revocation of certification.

4. Certification Maintenance

4.1 Continuing Education

To maintain certification, holders must complete 40 hours of continuing education during the 3-year validity period. This ensures that professionals remain current with the evolving security landscape.

4.2 Renewal

All certifications must be renewed every 3 years through the official recertification process. This process verifies ongoing competence and adherence to the institute's standards.

5. Examination Policies

5.1 Format

Examinations and assessments are conducted in formats appropriate to the certification level:

CSCE: Examinations are conducted in an online format.
CSP: Assessments are delivered in a hybrid or live on-site format, focusing on practical application and leadership skills.

5.2 Scoring

A minimum score of 70% is required for passing the CSCE examination.

5.3 Retakes

Candidates are permitted one free retake attempt for the CSCE exam. After the first retake, a new application and additional payment are required for any subsequent attempts.

6. Confidentiality and Data Protection

CSI is committed to handling all applicant and certificate holder information in strict compliance with GDPR and other relevant data protection laws. The following principles guide our data handling practices:

Purpose Limitation: Personal data will be collected only for legitimate certification purposes.
Data Security: Data is stored securely using appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction.
Data Retention: Information is retained for no longer than necessary to fulfil certification requirements and legal obligations.
Transparency: Data subjects are provided with clear privacy notices regarding the processing of their data.
Controlled Sharing: Data is shared only with authorized personnel and approved third parties where necessary for certification activities.
Data Subject Rights: We uphold the rights of data subjects, including access, rectification, erasure, and portability as required by applicable law.

7. Disciplinary Procedures

CSI maintains a formal process to address breaches of its standards. Disciplinary action may be taken for various reasons, and a structured process ensures fairness and transparency.

7.1 Grounds for Disciplinary Action

Actions that may trigger the disciplinary process include, but are not limited to:

Breach of the CSI Code of Conduct.
Fraudulent or misleading statements in certification applications.
Cheating or misconduct during examinations.
Misrepresentation of certification status or credentials.
Criminal conviction related to professional activities.
Failure to meet continuing education requirements.

7.2 Disciplinary Process

The process is designed to be thorough and fair, involving an initial complaint review, a formal investigation, an opportunity for the certificate holder to respond, a review by a disciplinary panel, and a formal hearing if required.

7.3 Potential Sanctions

Depending on the severity of the misconduct, sanctions can range from a written warning to permanent revocation of the certification. Other sanctions include suspension, mandatory additional training, and public notification where appropriate.

8. Appeals and Complaints

8.1 Appeals Process

Candidates who wish to appeal a certification decision may do so by submitting a written appeal within 30 days of the decision. The appeal must include the grounds for the appeal and any supporting documentation. An independent appeals panel will review the case within 60 days and provide a written decision.

8.2 Complaints Process

Complaints against certificate holders are handled through a formal process. A written complaint must be submitted within 12 months of the incident. The process includes an initial assessment, investigation, and a response from the certificate holder, with a target resolution within 90 days.

9. Use of CSI Credentials

9.1 Proper Use

Valid certificate holders are encouraged to display their credentials on business cards, email signatures, LinkedIn profiles, and other professional documents. The use of official CSI certification logos and badges must be in accordance with brand guidelines.

9.2 Restrictions

Certificate holders are strictly prohibited from:

Using expired, suspended, or revoked certifications.
Misrepresenting the scope or level of their certification.
Using CSI logos or trademarks without authorization.
Transferring or sharing certifications with others.
Using credentials for unlawful or unethical purposes.

10. Fees

The following table outlines the fee structure for CSI certifications. All fees are listed in Euros (€).

Certification	Application Fee	Certification / Final Fee	Renewal Fee (every 3 years)
CSCE	N/A	€250	€250
CSP	N/A	€750 per student	€750
CSL	N/A	No additional fee	No additional fee
C-CSP	€50 (non-refundable)	€450 (upon acceptance)	€450

10.4 Refund Policy

Application fees are non-refundable once the application process has commenced.

Certification fees may be refunded if a candidate withdraws before the examination or assessment, minus a €50 administrative fee. No refunds are available after examinations have been taken or assessments completed.

Renewal fees are non-refundable once the recertification process has commenced.

11. Policy Changes

CSI reserves the right to update these policies at any time. Certificate holders will be notified of any changes via email to their registered address and through a posting on the CSI website within 30 days of the change.

Material changes affecting certification requirements or fees will be communicated at least 60 days in advance of implementation. Certificate holders who do not agree with policy changes may request credential cancellation with a pro-rated refund where applicable.