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DestCert vs Learning Tree: Which CISSP Course Is Right for You?

The Easiest
Way to Get Your CISSP Certification

CISSP training that focuses on what you need to learn —
at a pace that works for you

Prepare to confidently pass
the CISSP exam

Why Choose the DestCert MasterClass over Learning Tree

A CISSP MasterClass that goes beyond standard preparation. See why DestCert's comprehensive approach to exam readiness makes it the top choice compared to Learning Tree's CISSP program

Key Features Comparison

Note: Learning Tree offers CISSP training primarily as a 5-day instructor-led course, available in both classroom and virtual formats. Classroom training is offered in various locations across North America. Unlike some providers, Learning Tree does not offer self-paced or one-on-one training options for CISSP preparation. The fixed 5-day schedule may be ideal for those who prefer intensive, structured learning experiences, but it may not suit professionals with unpredictable schedules or those who prefer more flexible, self-paced study options.

FeatureDestCertLearning Tree

Course Structure

PAID

FREE and PAID

ALL of the study materials you need

Personalized Study Schedule

Weekly Live Q&A Calls

1-on-1 Mentoring Sessions*

Flashcard App

Practice Question App

MindMap Review Videos

Proven Exam Strategies

Active Community Support
(Discord, Reddit)

Printed Guidebook and Workbook*

Integrated Learning System

Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Personalized Review Guide

Certified and Experienced Instructors

Video Lectures

Downloadable Resources

Lifetime Access

Available in Premier Plan

Value for Money

Flexible, Self-Paced Learning

Variety of Teaching Styles

*Included with Preferred & Premier MasterClasses

Master the CISSP exam with confidence

Plans and Pricing Comparison

PlanPriceContentAccess

Learning Tree

$4,095

5-day instructor-led training course, CISSP exam voucher, Official ISC2 Study Guide

Course duration

DestCert Essential
CISSP MasterClass

$1,697

Everything you need to confidently pass the exam:
In-depth study material, full access to the learning system, MasterClass videos, PDF workbook, CISSP Guidebook, personalized schedule, weekly group mentoring, flashcard app, practice question app, MindMap videos, exam strategies, and practice exam

1 year

DestCert Preferred
CISSP MasterClass

$2,197

Everything in Essential, plus 2 x one-hour 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, printed CISSP workbook and guidebook, unlimited email support

3 years

DestCert Premier
CISSP MasterClass

$5,297

Everything in Preferred, plus unlimited personal 1-on-1 mentoring, and an iPad

Lifetime

Success Rates and Outcomes

Destination Certification

  • Image of first time pass rate - Destination Certification

    High First-Time Pass Rate

    DestCert's CISSP MasterClass boasts a 93.6% first-time pass rate for participants.

  • Icon empowerment - Destination Certification

    Rapid Certification Achievemen

    Some dedicated students have successfully passed the CISSP exam in as little as 30 days after completing the MasterClass.

  • Icon simplifying path - Destination Certification

    Proven Success Track

    The combination of high pass rates and quick certification achievements underscores the real-world effectiveness of DestCert's CISSP MasterClass in preparing students for exam success and beyond.

Learning Tree

  • Icon varied user experience - Destination Certification

    No Pass Rate Data

    Learning Tree does not publicly disclose specific success rates or certification timelines for their CISSP course.

These are just a few success stories

  • “CCSP Masterclass – What a masterpiece! Well done on this incredible work. In addition, the strategy worked out! Thinking like a CEO made all the difference to me in passing the exam. HUGE THANK YOU!”
    CCSP student Rodrigo Souza - Destination CertificationRodrigo SouzaCCSP student
  • “The sheer experience and knowledge that DC instructors bring on to the table is impeccable. They provide a learning experience which propels the aspirants to completely immerse in the learning journey and when immersed with sincerity, one can say they are not only getting trained to attempt the CISSP examination but also become a responsible and sound Information Security professional of tomorrow who can serve our society to make an impact that truly matters.”
    CISSP student Kumar S S S K - Destination CertificationKumar S S S KCISSP student
  • “The Destination Certification team is fantastic! The material is well structured, engaging, and reassured me that the focus is on value. I found the way the service helped me focus on the weaker areas of my knowledge was a game changer in terms of effort/reward.”
    CISSP student Sean Fleming - Destination CertificationSean FlemingCISSP student
  • “I used DestCert to prepare for CISSP. The material was well-structured and engaging. Mindmaps helped me understand how different topics fit together. The personalized review helped me target my weaker areas of knowledge, making my study efficient. DestCert is a valuable resource in my exam preparation.”
    CISSP student Joe Koh - Destination CertificationJoe KohCISSP student
  • “Earning the CISSP felt like a daunting, almost impossible challenge. But I watched all the videos, read the book, reviewed flashcards and grew confident enough to sit it after three months. Though it is a really hard exam, the material was accurate and enough for me to pass at 100 questions on my first attempt. I highly recommend DestCert to anyone preparing for these exams.”
    CISSP student Devin Tauber - Destination CertificationDevin TauberCISSP student
  • “Preparing for and taking the CISSP exam can feel like a daunting task. DestCert's CISSP MasterClass helps plan out everything for you, and leads you through each of the many topics with engaging video content. I used their MasterClass (as well as Quantum Exams) to prepare for the exam and I passed the first time at 100 questions! I would 100% recommend DestCert in future to anyone looking to pass the CISSP exam. Their first time pass rate speaks for itself!”
    CISSP student Daniel LeFevre - Destination CertificationDaniel LeFevreCISSP student
  • “I took DestCert Masterclass, did the videos, assessments per domain, practice questions on the apps and flashcard while commuting. I read the book a few days before the exam to review the materials again. I only used them and one extra practice test. Easy to follow and understand, if you have got enough experience in the field, using their Masterclass would be enough to pass. Highly recommended.”
    CISSP student Andrew Rinaldo - Destination CertificationAndrew RinaldoCISSP student
  • “I found the DestCert material and questions to be excellent preparation for the CISSP exam. In particular I found the mindmaps to be a great resource for identifying topics to revisit during the home stretch. In going through DestCert I feel like I might have finally found my calling. Going through this course made me realize I'd much rather teach people about Technology Security than try to push the security boulder up a hill while everything in the world is on the opposite side trying to roll it right over me. Listening to Rob and John made me realize that there's a lot of value in what they do, and they are able to touch and impact technologists and companies all over the world to help fight the good fight.”
    CISSP student Jesse Giambatista - Destination CertificationJesse GiambatistaCISSP student
  • “I successfully passed the CISSP exam in March 2025 using the DestCert student workbook, training videos, mind maps, practice questions and flashcards thru the website and mobile app. In my case, I purchased the CISSP MasterClass. While the training materials are first rate, the mindset of “think like a CEO” as well as John Berti’s video on test-taking tips was hugely helpful and directly contributed to helping me pass the exam after just 100 questions. Importantly, DestCert is the ONLY training material I used for CISSP exam preparation, and I absolutely recommend DestCert for anyone considering the CISSP exam.”
    CISSP student Jason Miller - Destination CertificationJason MillerCISSP student
  • “Rob and John played an instrumental role in my success with the CISSP. Their teaching style and ability to present complex material in an easily digestible and engaging manner were truly exceptional. They not only made the learning process enjoyable but also genuinely inspired confidence in their students. I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this outstanding team to both individuals and businesses seeking top-notch training for Cybersecurity/GRC!”
    CISSP student Kyle Petro - Destination CertificationKyle PetroCISSP student
  • “The Destination Certification CISSP course was the key to my success in passing the exam. Rob and John’s teaching style gets right to the point and makes it easy to focus on the most important parts of each domain. Their advice to “think like a CEO” was also extremely helpful and really made the difference in my approach to the exam questions. I can’t thank the team enough for their commitment and passion to teach and help others accomplish this important milestone. Trust the system! It works.”
    CISSP student Jermaine Turnage - Destination CertificationJermaine TurnageCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification is the key factor I attribute to my success in achieving the CISSP. The comprehensive suite of materials—including online videos, flashcards, practice questions, discord channel, weekly calls, and expert guidance—provided everything I needed to conquer the CISSP journey. A big thank you to the Destination Certification team!”
    CISSP student Tyler Beels - Destination CertificationTyler BeelsCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification has proven to be a valuable investment, as it provided me with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully pass on my first attempt! John and Rob are very passionate about teaching, and I love that they lead AMAs every week with their students. I can't wait to try another Destination Certification program when I'm ready for my next certification 🙂”
    CISSP student Jasmine Kang - Destination CertificationJasmine KangCISSP student
  • “I embarked on the Destination Certification program, as I was feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for the CISSP exam. Having been out of school for over 20 years, I had forgotten how to study or even how "the right way to learn". With their daily guidance, I conquered the exam after only 100 questions and in an astonishing 90 minutes! The system taught me well beyond the CISSP material as it even helped me understand the perspectives and goals of executives who I previously didn't. My success is a testament to the incredible Destination Certification program and team, and I am forever grateful and excited about the knowledge and skills I have gained through this journey.”
    CISSP student Ryan Yagatich - Destination CertificationRyan YagatichCISSP student
  • “I highly recommend Destination Certification for anyone preparing for the CISSP exam. Their structured and well-organized course content, combined with easy-to-follow, pedagogical videos, provided me with a solid foundation for success. Unlike many other courses, their approach kept me motivated throughout my studies, thanks to practical tips and guidance from the entire team during our conversations. The quality of their materials and expert support truly made the difference in helping me pass the exam.”
    CISSP student Mirza Gogic - Destination CertificationMirza GogicCISSP student
  • “This course truly prepared me for the exam even though I took it in Japanese, plus it taught me lots of industry standard security-related English expressions that I can use in real work situations.”
    CISSP student Nomura, Makiko - Destination CertificationMakiko NomuraCISSP student
  • “I passed both the CISSP and CCSP exams using Destination Certification. With 90 days of focused study, their comprehensive materials and support helped me pass CISSP on April 9, 2024, and CCSP on January 8, 2025”
    CCSP student Murthy Mantha - Destination CertificationMurthy ManthaCCSP student
  • “DestCert really helped give me a peace of mind on exam day, that test likes to play tricks on you and make you second guess yourself, but DestCert is structured to not only provide you with the knowledge but it also gives you a firm confidence in yourself.”
    CISSP student Steven Tiller - Destination CertificationSteven TillerCISSP student
  • “I appreciated the format of the Destination Certification program. The multiple modes served as an effective method for reinforcing the materials. The subject matter was focused allowing for efficient learning in a compressed timeframe. I passed the test with the minimum amount of questions because I heard John's voice incessantly in my head saying, "Think like a CEO."”
    CISSP student Todd Chapman - Destination CertificationTodd ChapmanCISSP student
  • “I solely used DestCert resources to prepare, but I used all of them to the full...videos, mindmaps, printed book, ebook, flashcards, sample questions, etc. Without getting lost in too many details, DestCert provided me with the central understanding needed for each concept, and this clearly enabled me to pass the CISSP. When I took the exam, there were many questions were challenging and appeared to be beyond my scope, yet I had enough knowledge to be successful. I was happy to not only pass the exam, but deepen my knowledge across the cybersecurity industry. A foundation I intend to further grow from.”
    CISSP student Peter Student - Destination CertificationPeter StudentCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification is an excellent resource if you can make the price work. Dest Cert videos are professional and engaging. Rob and John really draw you in and bring flavor to dry content. Dest Cert Mindmaps (available outside of the class on youtube) are crucial for understanding how something fits into everything else. ESPECIALLY the mindmaps on the processes. I watched them all multiple times, and memorized a bunch of them.”
    CISSP student Wesley Barrier - Destination CertificationWesley BarrierCISSP student
  • “Regarding my experience with Destination Certification, I have to say that stunding for CISSP with you guys, was beyond all my expectations. This is the best training course material I ever studied for certification. It not only prepared me to pass this challenging exam, but above all it helped me to become a better cyber security professional.”
    CISSP student Alberto Afonso - Destination CertificationAlberto AfonsoCISSP student
  • “The CISSP Masterclass was outstanding—well-organized, easy to follow, and fully prepared me to pass. Rob, John, and Lou boosted my confidence with essential test-taking strategies, helping me conquer my toughest exam. Thank you, Destination Certification!”
    CISSP student Baburaj Sadanandan - Destination CertificationBaburaj SadanandanCISSP student

User Experience & Support

Destination Certification

  • Icon of a lightbulb with a book beside it - Destination Certification

    Complete CISSP Preparation Resources

    Forget about piecing together study materials from various sources. Our MasterClass provides everything you need for your CISSP journey in one comprehensive package. Books, practice exams, flashcards—it's all here, perfectly aligned and ready for you to dive in.

  • Icon accessibility - Destination Certification

    Flexible Learning Schedule

    Our program adapts to your lifestyle, allowing you to create a study plan that fits your personal rhythm. Whether you're a full-time professional, a night owl, or an early bird, you can tailor your CISSP preparation to your unique schedule and learning preferences.

  • Icon focus of learning - Destination Certification

    Comprehensive Video Curriculum

    Our collection of over 170 video lessons covers specific topics in concise, manageable segments. These lessons go beyond mere facts, illustrating how individual concepts integrate into the broader CISSP framework.

  • Icon of personalized mentoring - Destination Certification

    Personalized Expert Mentoring

    Preferred and Premier plan students benefit from one-on-one mentoring sessions. These personalized interactions with CISSP experts help clarify complex topics and refine your exam strategy.

  • Icon engage - Destination Certification

    Supportive Learning Community

    Engage with our active Discord community and subreddit. This network provides more than just study tips—it offers peer support, shared experiences, and encouragement throughout your CISSP preparation journey.

Learning Tree

  • Icon adapt - Destination Certification

    Multiple Delivery Options

    Learning Tree offers their 5-day CISSP course in both classroom and virtual formats, catering to different learning preferences.

  • Icon continues improvement - Destination Certification

    Structured Learning Environment

    The course follows a fixed 5-day schedule, which may suit those who prefer a more structured, intensive learning experience.

  • Icon of Comprehensive and Detailed Book - Destination Certification

    Access to ISC2 Materials

    Students receive access to the Official ISC2 Study Guide for exam preparation.

  • Icon support - Destination Certification

    Post-Course Support

    Learning Tree provides after-course coaching, offering additional guidance after the formal training concludes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any live elements to the course?

Both courses incorporate live elements. DestCert offers weekly live Q&A sessions for all students, with additional 1-on-1 mentoring for Preferred and Premier plan students. Learning Tree's entire course is live and instructor-led, whether in-person or virtual, providing real-time interaction throughout the 5-day program.

How up-to-date is the course material?

Both DestCert and Learning Tree ensure their course materials are current with the latest CISSP exam requirements. DestCert strictly follows the CISSP exam outline, developing and updating its comprehensive resource set to align precisely with the most recent standards. This approach ensures that DestCert's materials directly reflect the exam's content and structure. Learning Tree uses official ISC2 materials, which are also designed to cover the current exam domains. Both providers aim to keep pace with evolving cybersecurity developments, but DestCert's direct alignment with the exam outline offers a focused preparation experience.

Can I interact with other students taking the course?

Student interaction varies between the two providers. DestCert fosters a community through its Discord server and dedicated subreddit, allowing ongoing interaction with current students and alumni. Learning Tree's in-person and virtual classroom formats provide opportunities for student interaction during the 5-day course, but may not offer a persistent community platform.

DestCert vs. Learning Tree: Which Course Is Best?

Selecting the right CISSP training program is crucial for your certification journey. DestCert and Learning Tree offer distinct approaches to CISSP preparation, each with its own strengths.

Learning Tree provides an intensive, structured experience with their 5-day course. This format suits professionals who prefer concentrated learning periods and thrive in traditional classroom settings, whether virtual or in-person. The fixed schedule and official ISC2 materials may appeal to those who want a clearly defined study path.

DestCert, however, reimagines CISSP preparation for the modern learner. Our adaptive platform caters to busy professionals juggling multiple responsibilities. With our comprehensive resource library, including video lessons, interactive tools, and community support, you're equipped to tailor your study plan to your unique needs. This flexibility allows you to maintain your current commitments while steadily progressing toward CISSP certification.

Ultimately, your choice should align with your learning style, schedule constraints, and career goals. If you're ready to embark on a flexible, thorough, and engaging CISSP preparation journey, DestCert's CISSP MasterClass is designed to support your success.

Take control of your cybersecurity career advancement. Explore DestCert's CISSP MasterClass and discover how our innovative approach can propel you toward certification success.

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