Order CMA Certificate Online: Updated 2025 Guide

CMA Certification: Meaning, Requirements, and Career Benefits

The CMA (Certified Management Accountant) is a globally recognized professional certification designed for finance and accounting professionals who specialize in management accounting and financial strategy. Awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), the CMA certification focuses on advanced financial management skills that support business decision-making and organizational performance. How much to order a CMA certificate? 

This article explains what the CMA certification is, what it covers, and why it is valued by employers worldwide.

What Is CMA?

CMA stands for Certified Management Accountant, a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in:

• Financial planning and analysis

• Cost management

• Internal controls

• Strategic decision-making

• Corporate finance

Unlike traditional accounting qualifications that emphasize external reporting, the CMA focuses on internal management, strategy, and performance management.

CMA Exam Structure

The CMA certification consists of two exam parts:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

This section covers:

• Financial statements

• Planning, budgeting, and forecasting

• Performance management

• Cost management

• Internal controls

• Technology and analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

This section focuses on:

• Financial statement analysis

• Corporate finance

• Decision analysis

• Risk management

• Investment decisions

• Professional ethics

Each exam includes multiple-choice questions and essay scenarios designed to test real-world problem-solving skills.

CMA Eligibility Requirements

To earn the CMA certification, candidates typically must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

• Two years of relevant professional experience in management accounting or financial management

• Successful completion of both CMA exam parts

• Active membership with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)

These requirements ensure that CMA holders meet professional and ethical standards.

Career Benefits of CMA Certification

Holding a CMA certification can offer several advantages:

• Career advancement into management and leadership roles

• Higher earning potential compared to non-certified professionals

• Global recognition, especially in multinational organizations

• Strategic skill development beyond traditional accounting functions

CMA professionals commonly work in roles such as:

• Management accountant

• Financial analyst

• Finance manager

• Controller

• Chief financial officer (CFO)