Credential Information

2026-2027 Academic Year

DRAFT CMS until August 14, 2026.

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Information Technology Specialist - Network Security

Credential Name	Information Technology Specialist - Network Security
Credential Vendor Info	Certiport Matt Johnson 633 W. Innovation Way 5th Floor \| Lehi, Utah 84043 USA matt.johnson1@pearson.com 801-772-3254 https://certiport.pearsonvue.com/Certifications/ITSpecialist/Certification/Certify
Implementation Year	2026-2027
Credential Auto Collect	Yes
Diploma Endorsement	CI31 = Yes
Validation Artifact	"Results (264) Plus" report from Certiport OR Copy of certificate
Credential Lead Consultant	Brent Curran brent.curran@dpi.nc.gov
Course Code and Title	CI31 Cybersecurity II Honors
Credential as POL	CI31 POL = No
Pathway(s)	Network Security (NESE)
Cost of Instructor Training	$0.00
Instructor Training Requirements	None
Exam Voucher Expiration	12 months
Credential Lifespan	5 years
Renewal Options	Yes After 5 years
SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) Code(s)	Computer and Information Systems Managers (11-3021) Computer Network Architects (15-1241) Computer Network Support Specialists (15-1231) Database Administrators (15-1242) Detectives and Criminal Investigators (33-3021) Information Security Analysts (15-1212) Web Developers (15-1254)
Articulation	Yes The exam is recommended for 3 college credits by the American Council on Education (ACE).
Sequencing	Yes This credential is part of a structured, industry-recognized pathway that supports skill development and career progression in IT and cybersecurity. It validates foundational knowledge in core security principles, operating system protection, network and device security, and secure computing practices, making it an ideal starting point for roles in network operations, security support, and IT services. This credential complements postsecondary education, as the competencies align closely with college-level coursework in cybersecurity, network engineering, and systems administration, helping learners bridge theory with practical skills in real-world environments.
Employer Transferability	Yes
Delivery Format	On-line
Proctored Environment Required	Yes Proctors must be individuals who are registered with Certiport and have formally requested to become a proctor through their Certiport user profile. To qualify, the individual must read, agree to, and accept the Certiport Proctor Agreement, which outlines the terms, conditions, and responsibilities required for proctoring. No additional credentials or qualifications are required beyond accepting the agreement. Documentation of proctor requirements can be found at the following link: https://www.certiport.com/Portal/common/documentlibrary/Q10_BecomeProctor.pdf
Proctored Requirements	N/A
Test Site Options and Requirements	Schools are eligible to serve as official Certiport test sites or administer exams remotely using approved proctoring methods. To become a test site, institutions must register with Certiport and meet specific technical, administrative, and security requirements outlined by the testing provider. Complete requirements for becoming a Certiport Authorized Testing Center (CATC) can be found at: https://certiport.pearsonvue.com/Educator-resources/Get-started.aspx If a school is unable to serve as a test site or proctor remotely, students may take the exam at an authorized external Certiport testing center, such as a local college, library, or workforce development center. Availability may vary by region.
Testing Environment Requirements	N/A
Exam Time Allotment	50 minutes
Exam Passing Requirement	700/1000 or 70%
Retakes	Yes If a student does not pass an exam on the first attempt, they must wait 24 hours before retaking it. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, a seven-day waiting period is required before a third attempt. This seven-day waiting period applies to all subsequent exam retakes.
Student Accommodations	Yes Step-by-step instructions for submitting a request and additional information can be found here: https://certiport.pearsonvue.com/Educator-resources/Exam-policies/Accommodations.aspx#apply
Multilingual Resources*	Yes View the list of available languages for each certification by visiting: https://certiport.pearsonvue.com/Educator-resources/Exam-details/Exam-releases.aspx
Directory Notes	None

The North Carolina Office of Career and Technical Education provides multiple opportunities for students to obtain Industry-Recognized Credentials during their high school career.
Industry-recognized credentials hold immense value as they not only validate student skills and knowledge in a specific field but also serve as a powerful stepping stone toward future careers.

They provide a competitive edge in the job market, making students more attractive to potential employers and increasing their earning potential.

Moreover, industry-recognized credentials often lead to more job opportunities and pathways for advancement, helping students embark on successful and fulfilling career journeys.

Beyond the immediate benefits, these credentials instill a sense of accomplishment and confidence, motivating students to pursue higher education or dive directly into the workforce with the skills and certifications needed to excel.

Ultimately, industry-recognized credentials empower high school students to bridge the gap between education and real-world employment, setting them on a path toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Access the NCDPI Credentials and Reporting website to submit a credential application and to view the latest Credential Attainment Report.

^ Indicates the pathway is an approved Local Course Option (LCO) pathway.

* Where multilingual exams are indicated, please be advised that the state of North Carolina adheres to general statute as follows:
G.S.§115C-81.45(a) requires classes (silent on exams) to be conducted in English "[e]xcept when a board authorizes teaching in a foreign language to comply with federal law."
Therefore, NC CTE will abide with the Accountability guidance that LEAs are not required to provide exams in other languages. If they choose to do so, it will be at local discretion.