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Topic: value of cpa exam vs cma license? (

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kwonp
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Joined: 29 Jun 2009
Location: United States
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Posts: 1

Posted: 29 Jun 2009 at 19:09 \| IP Logged

Hi all,

Just wanted to get a few thoughts at this point in my life.
I'm getting a masters in accounting which will qualify me
to sit for the CPA Exam. I have 5 years basic accounting,
budgeting, and analyst experience, but don't have audit
experience. And I don't plan on working in audit in the
future which will not let me become licensed. Is there
value in just passing the tests? And do some believe that
I should go the CMA route since the CMA experience
requirments do not require audit?

Tifferbugz
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Joined: 18 Feb 2009
Location: United States
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Posts: 218

Posted: 29 Jun 2009 at 20:07 \| IP Logged

The value of a CMA in certain positions is as high or higher than the CPA. That being said, for most accounting jobs the CPA is what employers like to see. This is because the CPA is more well-known than the CMA and more focused on public accounting. The CMA will help you if you are looking for something in manufacturing, particularly a Senior Financial Analyst or a Cost Accountant position.

Because the CPA is more recognized, I would go for it first if I were you. Unless of course you are looking for something very specialized like cost accounting.

Good luck!

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DanielleIvy
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Joined: 13 May 2009
Location: United States
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Posted: 02 Jul 2009 at 16:51 \| IP Logged

I agree with Tifferbugz. The CPA is more highly valued in the business world as a whole. In addition, nearly everyone I know who has a CMA has gotten their CPA first. The CMA is important in private accounting, but take a look at job ads. I guarantee more will seek CPAs than CMAs (I'm including employers who may want both designations in this statement). And if you ever find yourself out of a job, the CPA will open more doors for you than the CMA will.

Even if you are not licensed, having your CPA means a hell of a lot in the business and accounting world.

I'm not saying don't pursue a CMA, because it is a good credential to have, but a CPA would my first pursuit

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