Different certifications for different work
The CMA and the CPA are both well-known accounting credentials, but they lead in different directions. The CMA, from IMA, is about management accounting: helping a business plan, control costs and make decisions.
The CPA is the US license for public accountants. It is about auditing, financial reporting and tax, often for outside clients.
Choose the CMA to work inside a company
Think about the CMA if you see yourself in a company's finance team, working on budgets, costs, financial analysis or finance management. Its exam has two parts, which together cover planning, analysis, control and decision support.
IMA also asks for a degree or an accepted professional certification, and for relevant work experience.
Choose the CPA for public accounting, audit or tax
Think about the CPA if you want to audit financial statements, advise on tax, or work at an accounting firm. Each US state board sets its own education, exam and experience rules.
If you plan to work as a public accountant in Lebanon, also look at the local certified public accountant title granted by the Lebanese Association of Certified Public Accountants (LACPA).
Can you earn both?
Yes. Some accountants earn both over their careers. It usually makes sense to start with the one that matches your next job, and decide on the other later.
Whichever you choose, requirements change over time. Check the IMA website for the CMA, and the AICPA website for the CPA, before you plan.
Where to start
Our Accounting course builds a foundation for both the CMA and the CPA. It covers financial and managerial accounting, financial reporting and analysis.
Our Financial Advisor course builds a foundation for the CMA, through investment strategy, risk and financial planning. Read our CMA and CPA pages, then message us on WhatsApp if you want help deciding.