By:

Dennis Elam PhD CPA

Assistant Professor Accounting, San Antonio A & M

1450 Gillette Blvd., San Antonio, TX  78224

Dennis.elam@att.net

Work goes much better if one has the right tool matched to the right job.  Life goes better that way, too.  Make sure your certification matches your job description.

Accounting is no longer a one size fits all profession.  In response to this trend, there are now certifications to "fit" specific job descriptions.  Say hello to the Certified Management Accountant CMA designation.

Globalization and competition has ramped up the competitive environment.  CMA's assist their organizations in operating on the highest efficiency frontier.  CMA's enjoy benchmarking of best practices.  A significant percentage of the accounting profession is employed in industry.  Yet the CPA designation is not designed for this purpose.  A CMA will work with management, marketing, engineering, and accounting, perhaps all in one day.  The focus of the CMA is internal best practices.  The CMA is forward looking.  A CPA, on the other hand, is often looking in the rear view mirror. 

Unlike the CPA exam, one may take the CMA with a Bachelor's Degree.  Beginning May 1, 2010 the CMA exam will consist of two parts.  Testing for the current 4-part exam will continue through December 31, 2010.   For more information, click this link to IMA National website  IMA - Certification Info