When it comes to accounting, there are a variety of different certifications that professionals can earn in order to improve their career prospects and earnings potential. Earning certain accounting certifications can help show employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the field. In this blog post, we’ll list and explain some of the best accounting certifications to earn.

There are many different accounting certifications available, but not all of them are equally valuable. In this blog post, we will list and explain the most important certifications an accounting professional can earn.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification

Earning your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is one of the best things you can do to improve your career prospects as an accountant. The CPA designation is the gold standard in the accounting profession, and it is recognized and respected by employers all over the world.

In order to earn your CPA certification, you must pass the Uniform CPA Examination, which is a three-part exam administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). The exam covers topics such as auditing, ethics, financial accounting and reporting, and tax.

The cost of the CPA exam varies depending on the state in which you are taking the exam, but it typically costs around $1,000 to register for and take the exam. In addition, most states require CPA candidates to complete 150 hours of college coursework before they can sit for the exam.

Once you have passed the exam and earned your CPA certification, you will need to complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain your license. The cost of continuing education varies depending on the type of coursework you choose to complete, but it typically costs around $100-$200 per year.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation, offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), is another great option for accounting. 

In order to earn your CMA certification, you must pass a two-part exam administered by the IMA. The exam covers topics such as financial accounting and reporting, financial statement analysis, corporate finance, cost management, managerial decision-making, and strategic planning.

This exam typically costs around $1,000 to register for and take the exam. In addition, CMA candidates are required to have at least two years of professional experience before they can sit for the exam.

The CMA certification also requires you to complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain your license. 

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a globally recognized designation that is offered by the CFA Institute.

To earn your CFA certification, you must pass a three-part exam administered by the CFA Institute. The exam covers topics such as ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, portfolio management, and equity investments.

The cost of the CFA exam typically costs around $1,000. In addition, CFA candidates to have at least four years of professional experience before they can sit for the exam. Like other accounting certifications, the CFA requires you to complete continuing education to keep your certification.

Takeaway: Accounting Certifications 

If you want a successful career in the accounting and finance industry, earning professional certifications can be a big help. While some employers don’t specifically require certification, most prefer it and earning one can give you an edge over the competition.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

Are you ready to find your next accounting career opportunity? Contact Burchard & Associates. We help accounting and finance professionals in the St. Louis area find career opportunities with some of the area’s premier employers. Check out our available career opportunities or contact us today to learn more.