CMA vs CPA - Which is the better option for you?

By IIC Lakshya

13 Sep 2024

CMA INDIA, CMA USA

In today's globalised finance and accounting business, accounting experts seek possibilities in various fields. To accomplish this, students must acquire cutting-edge skills, a thorough understanding of international standards, and strategic thinking. The CPA or CMA program is appropriate for those interested in accounting skills.

A CPA license normally leads to public accounting positions, but a CMA certification usually leads to management accounting positions. However, gaining these skills is difficult for those who intend to take a standard accounting course. When comparing CPA vs CMA to select the appropriate course, it is critical to understand what these credentials stand for and grasp the distinctions between the two accounting certifications. The following blog will help you select the best course for your career and ambitions.

What is CMA?

CMA or Certified Management Accountants courses are a global standard for management accountants and financial professionals looking to advance their careers. CMAs have substantial knowledge of not only basic financial accounting procedures but also commercial decision-making and strategic management. The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) provides the US CMA course in about 150 countries, and it is the top credential in the field of management and accounting. In India, the Institute of Cost Accountants of India administers the CMA India course.

Check out this detailed video comparing CMA India vs CMA USA, covering key differences in eligibility, syllabus, and course duration.

Explore more on related CMA topics by checking out these additional resources.

What is a CPA?

Certified Public Accountants (CPA) are licensed by their state's board of accountancy after passing the Uniform CPA Exam, which is administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. These certified public accountants are allowed to perform audits and approve tax and regulatory documents.

Explore more on related CPA topics by checking out these additional resources.

What is the difference between CPA and CMA?

If you are asking yourself, CMA or CPA which is better, comparing the two might help you answer that. A CMA identifies corporate growth ideas using detailed financial assessments. This is in contrast to a CPA, a broader accounting credential that is less involved in management and strategic decisions. Given below is a table that will further simplify the CMA vs CPA discussion:

Feature	CPA	CMA US	CMA India
Focus	Public accounting, external auditing	Management accounting, strategic financial analysis	Management accounting, financial management
Recognition	Globally recognized	Globally recognized	Recognized primarily in India
Eligibility	Bachelor's degree, 2 years of public accounting experience	Bachelor's degree	Bachelor's degree, 2 years relevant experience
Exam Format	4 parts, multiple choice and essay	2 parts, multiple choice and essay	4 parts, multiple choice and case study
Course Duration	1.5 years	6-9 months	3 years
Average Salary	US $75,000	US $80,000	US $9,698.13 p.a
Jobs	Auditor, Tax accountant, Forensic accountant	Management accountant, Financial analyst, Budget analyst	Cost accountant, Financial controller, Business analyst

CPA, CMA, or CFA - Which certification best fits your career goals?

If you have decided to pursue a career in accounting, you may be wondering whether to go for CPA, CMA, or CFA. You already know what a CMA is, but on the other hand, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a credentialed professional who specializes in finance and investment management.

The CFA Institute awards this certification only after completing the CFA program and meeting the necessary work experience requirements. CFA charter holders can pursue careers as investment managers, money managers, asset managers, portfolio managers, research analysts, risk managers, or even entrepreneurs. They can also advance to executive or senior-level positions.

To sum it up, when choosing between CPA, CMA vs CFA certifications, think about your career goals. CPAs excel in auditing and public accounting, CMAs focus on strategic financial analysis and management accounting, while CFAs specialize in investment analysis, portfolio management, and asset valuation. Before selecting any of these, consider your interests and choose the certification that best aligns with your career goals and the job you want.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a CMA better than a CPA?

The CMA is an increasingly prominent credential that can lead to a place at the table where important business decisions are made. As a CPA, you can also play an important part in the operations of financial institutions and organizations of all sizes. Unless you have a clear career aim, there is no advantage to one over another. Some might choose to obtain both the CPA and the CMA in order to maximize their chances.

Who earns more CPA or CMA?

There is no direct response to this question. Many regional and occupational factors influence how much you can earn as a CPA vs. a CMA.

Is CMA worth it after CPA?

With a CPA, you'll already have a lot of job prospects. People who hold both a CMA and a CPA have significantly higher earning potential and more distinguished employment alternatives. Even if you are a CPA, you must pass the CMA exam and complete the appropriate job requirements. Both qualifications must be renewed by continued education.

Is it worth getting a CMA?

The CMA is an excellent method to set yourself apart in the world of accounting and finance. If you wish to go beyond the calculated aspects of accounting and become a corporate leader, earning a CMA is an excellent method to accomplish it.

Is CFA tougher than CMA?

The CFA certification exam typically takes two to three years to pass, whereas the CMA USA exam can be passed in six to nine months. In terms of course length and difficulty, CFA outperforms CMA USA.