Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

 CMA: Certified Management Accountant

 Objectives

• To establish management accounting as a recognized profession by identifying the role of the management accountant and financial manager, the underlying body of knowledge, and course of study by which such knowledge is acquired;
• To encourage higher educational standards in the management accounting field;
• To establish an objective measure of an individual's knowledge and competence in the field of management accounting; and
• To encourage continued professional development by management accountants.

 About CMA Examination

The candidate must successfully complete a rigorous examination that serves as an objective measure of that individual's knowledge and competence in the field of management accounting. Moreover, the exam questions are constructed to test an individual's ability to analyze information and communicate the results in a meaningful and understandable manner to aid management in making decisions.

Beginning December 1, 1997, the CMA and CFM Examinations, will be given in a computer-based format. The examinations will be 100% objective and will consist of carefully constructed multiple-choice questions that will test all levels of cognitive skills. The exams will be offered daily (except Sundays and holidays) at an extensive network of Sylvan Technology Centers located throughout the U.S. and internationally.

The exam consists of four parts:

• Part 1: Economics, Finance, and Management
• Part 2: Financial Accounting and Reporting (* waived for individuals who have passed the U.S. CPA exam.)
• Part 3: Management Reporting, Analysis, and Behavioral Issues
• Part 4: Decision Analysis and Information Systems

 Requirements 

To become a CMA:

• file an Application for Admission with the ICMA and register for the CMA Examination;
• become a member of the IMA;
• pass all four parts of the CMA Examination within a three-year period;
• satisfy the CMA experience requirement; and comply with the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Management Accountants

Once the certificate is earned, the CMA must:

• satisfy the continuing education requirement;
• comply with the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Management Accountants; and
• maintain membership in the IMA

 After CMA

Earning potential for management accountants and financial managers with the CMA designation are $9,000 - $15,000 (U.S. dollars) more than those without any designation, according to a recent survey of IMA members.

And, having a professional designation gives you the competitive edge. The CMA program is actively supported by over 170 corporation, both large and small. These business leaders recognize that the CMA identifies an individual determined to meet a professional challenge. Formal support of the program also demonstrates to employees your company's commitment to their professional development.

More and more, executives throughout the U.S. look for the CMA designation when filling key management accounting and financial management positions in their organization. The reason is simple. The Certified Management Accountant is a highly-qualified, skilled professional.

Does this certification bear any recognition in India ?