It's a great self marketing tool. There are certification bodies for engineers and accountants. These organizations enable employers to choose from a qualified group of people. Information system security is a critical function for any enterprise. Only qualified people should work on security.
Computer security is more than just IDs and passwords.
Security professionals must have working knowledge of policies, investigations, and laws. It was hard work. But it formalized the knowledge I obtained on the job. Purewal offers some tips. It will help you identify the areas were more learning is required.