{"id":3000,"date":"2024-11-07T22:23:51","date_gmt":"2024-11-08T04:23:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/?p=3000"},"modified":"2026-06-16T17:18:45","modified_gmt":"2026-06-16T23:18:45","slug":"cma-requirements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/cma-requirements\/","title":{"rendered":"CMA Requirements: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":" <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re interested in pursuing a career in management accounting, you&#8217;ve heard of the importance of becoming a Certified Management Accountant.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On average, CMAs report total compensation of around <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imanet.org\/career-resources\/salary-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">$158,000<\/a><strong>,<\/strong> with Certified Management Accountants enjoying strong salary growth and job satisfaction. About 75% of CMA holders also say they &#8220;love their job,&#8221; underscoring the rewarding nature of this career path.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it isn\u2019t just CMAs that benefit. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CMA certification proves to employers that not only do you have an invaluable skill set and knowledge bank, but you also have the hard work and dedication to go with it. Because yes\u2014the exam is no piece of cake. Yet, for strategic people passionate about making smart financial decisions, the journey to this rewarding and lucrative career is well worth it.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But what exactly are the CMA requirements, and what steps do you need to take to earn your CMA designation? Let\u2019s break it down.<\/p> <p class=\"custom_key wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list custom_underline\"> <li><strong>Education Requirement:<\/strong> To pursue the CMA, you need a bachelor\u2019s degree from an accredited college or an approved equivalent certification.<\/li> <li><strong>Two-Part Exam:<\/strong> The CMA exam consists of two parts: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics (Part 1) and Strategic Financial Management (Part 2).<\/li> <li><strong>Work Experience Requirement:<\/strong> CMA candidates need two years of continuous, relevant work experience in management accounting or financial management.<\/li> <li><strong>Continuing Education:<\/strong> Maintaining your CMA certification requires 30 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) each year.<\/li> <li><strong>Higher Career Potential:<\/strong> CMA certification opens doors to advanced roles in financial management, with strong earning potential and global recognition.<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-a-certified-management-accountant\"><strong>What is a Certified Management Accountant?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before diving into the requirements, it helps to understand what <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/what-does-a-cma-do\/\">being a CMA is all about<\/a>. The Institute of Management Accountants rules over the CMA credential and is globally recognized in the finance and accounting industry. Certified Management Accountants focus on areas like strategic financial management, financial planning, analysis, cost management, and risk management\u2014basically, all the skills you\u2019d need to make high-level financial decisions within a company.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earning the CMA certification demonstrates a deep understanding of financial management and analytical skills, positioning you as a leader in the field. Plus, as a CMA, you\u2019ll stand out among accounting professionals, which can open doors to higher-level roles and increase earning potential.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cma-requirements-education-exams-and-experience\"><strong>CMA Requirements: Education, Exams, and Experience<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To earn the CMA designation, candidates must meet specific education, exam, and experience requirements. Here\u2019s a breakdown:<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-education-requirements-for-cma\"><strong>Education Requirements for CMA<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To be eligible for the CMA program, you need to have:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>A <strong>bachelor\u2019s degree<\/strong> from an accredited college or university. (Or you could fulfill this requirement with a professional accounting certification approved by the IMA.)<\/li> <li>If you\u2019re still a student, you can start taking the CMA exam before you finish school, but you\u2019ll need to <strong>complete your degree within seven years of passing the exam<\/strong>.<\/li> <\/ul> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cma-exam\"><strong>CMA Exam<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The CMA exam is at the core of the certification process and covers various topics critical for management accountants.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Two-Part Exam:<\/strong> The CMA exam has two parts. <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Part 1<\/strong>: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics<\/li> <li><strong>Part 2<\/strong>: Strategic Financial Management<\/li> <\/ul> <\/li> <li><strong>Topics Covered<\/strong>: The exams test you on key areas, including financial statement analysis, external financial reporting decisions, cost management, internal controls, and risk management.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each part of the CMA exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and two question sets based on their own corresponding case study. You need to pass both parts within three years of starting the CMA program.<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-experience-requirement\"><strong>Experience Requirement<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the education and exam components, CMAs are also required to demonstrate full-time professional experience in management accounting or financial management.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Two Years of Experience<\/strong>: You\u2019ll need two years of relevant work experience in roles such as financial analysis, budget preparation, management accounting, or financial statement analysis.<\/li> <li><strong>Verification<\/strong>: Submit verification of your work experience to the IMA. This typically means having your employer confirm that your duties meet CMA standards.<\/li> <\/ul> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-continuing-professional-education-cpe\"><strong>Continuing Professional Education (CPE)<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To maintain your CMA certification, you must complete 30 hours of continuing professional education each year, including 2 hours of ethics courses. This keeps you up-to-date on the latest in management accounting, including ethics, financial analysis, and corporate finance.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-steps-to-earning-the-cma-credential\"><strong>Steps to Earning the CMA Credential<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The certification process might seem intense, but with the right approach, you can succeed. Here\u2019s how to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/how-to-become-a-cma\/\">become a CMA<\/a> in a few steps:<\/p> <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Enroll in the CMA Program<\/strong>: Register with the IMA and pay the CMA entrance fee. You\u2019ll need an active IMA membership throughout the process.<\/li> <li><strong>Meet the Education Requirements<\/strong>: Earn a bachelor\u2019s degree from an accredited school or have an equivalent professional certification.<\/li> <li><strong>Pass the CMA Exam<\/strong>: Plan your study schedule, consider getting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/best-cma-prep-courses\/\">CMA study materials<\/a>, and register for the CMA exam at a Prometric testing center.<\/li> <li><strong>Submit Verification of Experience<\/strong>: Once you\u2019ve passed the exam and met the education requirement, provide proof of your relevant work experience.<\/li> <li><strong>Maintain Certification Through CPE<\/strong>: Once certified, complete your annual 30-hour CPE requirement to keep your CMA status active.<\/li> <\/ol> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-makes-the-cma-worthwhile\"><strong>What Makes the CMA Worthwhile?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The CMA is more than a title\u2014it\u2019s a career-enhancing qualification that signals expertise in financial planning and analysis, cost management, and decision-making. Here\u2019s why you might find the CMA valuable:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Higher Earning Potential<\/strong>: CMAs generally earn more than their non-certified peers, thanks to the high-demand skillset they bring.<\/li> <li><strong>Broader Career Options<\/strong>: From financial planning to corporate finance, CMA skills apply to many roles.<\/li> <li><strong>Global Recognition<\/strong>: The CMA is a globally respected credential that is recognized across industries and countries.<\/li> <li><strong>Enhanced Skills<\/strong>: Passing the CMA exam and continuing with CPE ensures you\u2019re always at the top of your game.<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-tips-for-success-on-your-cma-journey\">4 <strong>Tips for Success on Your CMA Journey<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Preparing for the CMA certification requires strategic planning and dedicated effort. Here are some practical tips to help you along the way:<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-plan-your-study-schedule\"><strong>1. Plan Your Study Schedule<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since the CMA exam covers extensive material across financial planning, management accounting, and strategic financial management, it\u2019s essential to create a study plan. Breaking the material into manageable parts can make the process less overwhelming. Aim for consistent study sessions each week and adjust based on your progress.<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-use-a-cma-review-course\"><strong>2. Use a CMA Review Course<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Investing in a reputable CMA review course is a smart move. These courses provide structured material, practice exams, and sometimes access to mentors who can guide you through challenging topics. Popular choices include Becker, Wiley, and Gleim, each offering various study formats like live classes, online modules, or self-paced courses.<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-connect-with-other-cma-candidates\"><strong>3. Connect with Other CMA Candidates<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Joining a study group or finding a study partner can boost motivation and provide helpful insights. You might be able to connect with others through online forums, CMA-related social media groups, or even local IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) chapters. Sharing tips, discussing difficult topics, and holding each other accountable can make a big difference.<\/p> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-practice-exam-questions\"><strong>4. Practice Exam Questions<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Familiarize yourself with the CMA exam format by practicing multiple-choice questions and working through past CMA exams. Practice CBQs are also essential for mastering the mix of question types associated with the sections. Many prep courses offer full-length practice tests, which can help you identify areas needing more focus.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re ready to take your career (and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/cma-salaries\/\">salary<\/a>) to the next level, earning your CMA certification could be a game-changer. The journey requires hard work and perseverance, but the rewards\u2014higher earning potential, increased job opportunities, and a respected credential\u2014are <em>well <\/em>worth your time and energy.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, each step in the certification process, from the educational requirements to passing the CMA exam, helps you build skills that make you a highly desirable asset in the business world.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If becoming a CMA is your dream, then go after it! You&#8217;ll never know what could&#8217;ve been if you don&#8217;t give it your best shot. Good luck, my friend\u2014you&#8217;ve got this!<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\"><strong>FAQs<\/strong><\/h2> <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1730884273557\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Do I need a bachelor&#8217;s degree to become a CMA?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, a bachelor\u2019s degree from an accredited college or university is required to meet the educational criteria to become a CMA candidate, or you can use an equivalent professional certification.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1730884279699\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How long do I have to pass the CMA exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You must take the CMA exam and pass both parts within three years of entering the program.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1730884285224\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What kind of work experience is eligible for the CMA certification requirements?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You\u2019ll need two years of full-time, relevant work experience in financial management, management accounting, or a similar role to qualify.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1730884291746\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can I start the CMA program as a student?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, students in their final year of a bachelor\u2019s program can begin the CMA exam process as long as they complete their degree within seven years.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1730884297883\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What topics are on the CMA exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The CMA exam includes financial planning, performance management, cost management, and professional ethics, covering essential skills for strategic decision-making in finance and accounting.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&#8217;re interested in pursuing a career in management accounting, you&#8217;ve heard of the importance of becoming a Certified Management Accountant. On average, CMAs report total compensation of around $158,000, with Certified Management Accountants enjoying strong salary growth and job satisfaction. About 75% of CMA holders also say they &#8220;love their job,&#8221; underscoring the rewarding [&hellip;]<\/p> ","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":3001,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,241],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3000","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-careers-education","category-accounting"],"acf":{"external_author":[129],"external_editor":"","select_template":"default","not_show_feature_image":false,"hide_toc":false},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/11\/CMA-Requirements-768x427.png","author_info":{"display_name":"","author_link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/author\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>CMA Requirements: What You Need to Know<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover the essential requirements for CMA certification, from your education and experience needs to passing the CMA exam.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/cma-requirements\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"CMA Requirements: What You Need to Know\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover the essential requirements for CMA certification, from your education and experience needs to passing the CMA exam.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/cma-requirements\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Kansas City Star - Careers &amp; 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