I am not sure there is a one size fits all. I think for some the BCS/ISEB fits their needs. They may not have the time or resources to pursue a degree in the topic. Some organisations will be generous with time and even support some tuition for such courses, however it is rarer these days.
At the same time, people, in general, usually come to the job with a degree rather than a certificate. By that I mean, the logical progression after a BA is to go for an MA, rather than go for a BCS/ISEB certificate. The MA usually offers a rounded practical application to a wider area (information rights is pretty broad) while the certificate focuses on a particular area within that remit.
For example, it is highly unlikely (but not impossible) that I would go back to school for another degree because I already have a BA, two MAs and a PhD, (the vagaries of a misspent youth:) (my parents are very proud and I am in debt :)) so another degree is neither practical nor feasible. I never stop learning, but the formal qualifications will have to be honorary. :)
In the end, it all depends on what you want to achieve or see the degree or accreditation achieving. I was very interested in the LLM but it was just not doable within my personal circumstances nor the organisation's circumstances. I am fortunate that the organisation decided to invest in me for the BCS/ISEB.
If you want a wider understanding of information rights and want that rounded view, then go with an LLM. If you are looking for an in depth focus on a particular topic be it FOIA or DPA, go with the BCS/ISEB. However, that decision will depend more on your circumstances than the content of either option.
I hope this helps. Just as an aside, the more a field requires degrees and certifications the more mature it has become. The next stage is then sub specialisation, ie only DPA and overseas transfers etc. Will be interesting to see how DP ABCS/ISEB develop over the next 20 years especially with the proposed changed regulations coming.
Best,
Lawrence
-----Original Message-----
From: This list is for those interested in Data Protection issues [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jonathan Baines
Sent: 23 September 2013 10:58
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [data-protection] BCS ISEB DP Course
I think there's both a real call for this, and a real market for an appropriate accreditation. I've never got the ISEB under my belt, but I have the Northumbria LLM in Information Rights Law and Practice (as several others on the list have).
Although BCS do, apparently, give exemption to candidates who can demonstrate they have covered 70% of the ISEB syllabus in training other than that by accredited providers, I have heard that this is rarely granted http://certifications.bcs.org/content/conCertification/8
Anyone know any more about this?
Jonathan Baines
Complaints and Information Rights Officer Legal and Democratic Services Buckinghamshire County Council
01296 383681
follow us on twitter: @buckscclegal
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