2. Certified Information Security Manager

Holders of the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) bring in an average salary of $128,156, the survey found, up from $122,291 last year.

CISM is aimed at management and focuses on security strategy and assessing the systems and policies in place. More than 32,000 people have been certified in CISM since it was introduced in 2002, making it a highly sought-after area with a relatively small supply of certified individuals, Global Knowledge said.  

The certification requires at least five years of information security experience, with at least three of those as a security manager. The exam is only offered during three eight-week periods in 2017.

Continuing education credits are required each year to maintain the CISM certification.