Accounting certifications are credentials that accounting professionals use to enhance their skill sets and progress professionally. You may choose one of the certifications based on your career path, eligibility criteria, and specialisation.
CFA: The CFA designation is a coveted certification in the finance world. Having three levels, this demanding certification by the CFA Institute can take up to 4 years to complete.Â
The main exam topics include ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, portfolio management, equity, fixed income, derivatives, and alternative investments.
The curriculum centres around portfolio management and investment analysis.Â
CPA: The Chartered Public Accountant is the gold standard in the accounting realm. The curriculum favours those who aim for accounting jobs. It includes auditing and attestation, business environment and concepts, financial accounting and reporting, and regulation.Â
FRM: Financial Risk Manager Certification is for you if the profiles of a risk analyst, risk officer and other positions in risk management excite you. It is a niche certification and can be cost-effective. Candidates must pass two rigorous exams and also work two years in the field of risk management. Financial Risk Managers (FRM) are accredited by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). FRMs specialise in assessing risk for central banks, insurance companies, accounting firms, regulatory agencies, and asset management firms.
CFP: Certified Financial Planner Certification is for those aiming to do well in investment and wealth management. Managing high-net-worth clients is at the forefront of the course.
The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. issues the credentials of a CFP. The education requirements comprise two major components.Â
- at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college.
- CFP Board approved the completion of a list of specific courses in financial planning
CMA: Certified Management Accountant Certification can work in corporate financial accounting and strategic management. The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) offers the CMA professional credential. It vouches for a person’s business management, management accounting, and corporate finance knowledge. To become a CMA, you must:
- hold a Bachelor’s degree.
- have two years of work experience in management accounting.