Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

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CMAs are accountants and financial professionals who excel in analysis, control, decision support, and financial planning.  CMAs serve in senior roles like controller, CFO, budget analyst, finance manager, and cost accountant.  CMAs are equipped to answer the 鈥渨hat and why鈥� behind the numbers. On average, CMAs make 37% more compensation than non-CMAs.

To become a CMA, candidates must pass the CMA exam and satisfy education requirements.  The CMA exam is administered in two parts:

  1. Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
  2. Strategic Financial Management.

Candidates must complete both parts within three years. The typical time frame to pass is about 12 鈥� 18 months.

The  (IMA), circa 1919, oversees the administration of the  (circa 1972).  The  meets throughout the year. 

KSU students are encouraged to start a !

CMA Requirements

Requirements for CMA certification:

  1. Obtain an undergraduate degree or higher, or professional certification in a related field (e.g., CPA)
  2. Pass the two-part CMA exam
    • Part 1 鈥� Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
    • Part 2 鈥� Strategic Financial Management
  3. Two years of related work experience.

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) recommends 150 鈥� 170 hours of study in preparation for the CMA Exam.

Learn more from these CMA student resources:

Know how to prepare for your CMA certification:

CMA FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification. 

  • The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) has an extensive FAQ section, including answers to concerns about the .

  • Our part-time Instructor of Accounting, Lee Woodward, can help answer your questions.

    E-mail
  • The CMA Exam is administered at Locate a testing center nearest to you and get started today.

  • Exams can be taken during three (3) testing time periods:

    • January and February
    • May and June
    • September and October

  • Please complete this form, and we will send you the relevant link.

    Send the completed application form to Amanda York.

    E-mail
  • KSU students should apply from November 1 until March 1.