Hi Brielle good day,
Surprisingly your bosses don't know what a CMA is. As the profession encourages continuing education & current knowledge on industry trends. You currently work for a national CPA firm, if you transition to industry, they will value the CMA.
If there are no constraints, I say take the CPA first because it is widely recognized in the U.S. and can get you in to any company, or your own company. You're also working under a CPA which is a requirement of the CPA. Then take the CMA shortly thereafter.
If education is a restraint, get the CMA first. If finances are a constraint, get the CMA first. If technical accounting is a constraint, get the CMA first.
I believe a CMA is wonderful for small businesses. You will be well prepared by taking the CMA. Also by pursuing both, you can advise clients and firms on whether they are actually interested in a CPA or a CMA. Because most clients think they need a CPA when they actually need a CMA.
I'm a CMA, not a CPA, but am interested.
P.S. the CPA test is currently undergoing a format change, this may encourage you to take the CMA test first.
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Ross Doussan CMA
Financial Analyst
Lexington SC
United States
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-18-2023 09:20 AM
From: Brielle Beard
Subject: Pursuing both CMA and CPA
I have always wanted to be a CMA first and foremost, I believe I learned about it first in my Intro to Accounting class. Small business are where my heart is. I am currently working full-time at a national CPA firm while finishing school. Unfortunately, when I mentioned this to my bosses, they had no idea what it was and are exclusively focused on CPAs; as is the rest of the hiring in the industry.
So here is my question, for those of you who are both CPAs and CMAs: which order would you recommend taking the tests?
CPA first and then take the CMA; reverse? Simultaneously?
Please advise.
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Brielle Beard
Accountant
Tulsa OK
United States
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