US CPA vs US CMA Career Comparison Guide

If you're considering a professional accounting certification, the debate between US CPA vs. US CMA is crucial. Both the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations offer lucrative career paths, but their focus areas differ significantly. Choosing between CPA vs. CMA depends on your career goals, industry preferences, and long-term aspirations. A CPA and a CMA certificate are both good for your accounting career. In the case of US CMA  and CPA USA make sure to review course before joining an institute to pursue CMA or to take the CPA examination

In this article, we’ll compare the US CPA vs. US CMA in terms of career opportunities, salary potential, exam requirements, and industry recognition to help you determine which certification aligns better with your professional journey.

US CPA vs. US CMA – Key Differences

Before diving into specifics, let’s clarify the differences between CPA and CMA:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This certification is globally recognised but primarily valued in the U.S. public accounting sector. It focuses on financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and regulatory compliance.

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA): This certification specializes in management accounting and financial management. It is highly regarded internationally and is recognized by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).

Career Opportunities for US CPA and US CMA Professionals

Both CPA and CMA career paths offer excellent job prospects. However, the industries and roles you qualify for differ depending on your CMA or CPA certification.

US CPA Career Path

• Work in public accounting as an auditor, tax consultant, or forensic accountant.

• Corporate roles such as financial analyst, internal auditor, or compliance officer.

• Government and nonprofit sector opportunities.

US CMA Career Path

• Positions in management accounting and financial strategy.

• Corporate finance roles include financial manager, risk manager, or corporate controller.

• Leadership positions such as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or VP of Finance.

Salary Potential for US CPA and US CMA Professionals

A major factor in deciding between CPA vs. CMA is salary potential.

US CMA Salary vs. US CPA Salary Breakdown

• US CPA Salary: The average salary for CPAs varies, with entry-level salaries around $66,000, while senior CPAs and partners in CPA firms can earn around $150,000 or more.

• US CMA Salary: The CMA salary is competitive, with CMAs earning a median base salary of $69,000 globally. Professionals in executive roles earn significantly more.

Exam Requirements for US CPA and US CMA Certifications

The CPA and CMA exams have distinct structures and eligibility requirements.

Difference Between US CPA and US CMA Exams

CPA Exam Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.

• Completion of 150 semester hours of education.

Passing the Uniform CPA Exam, which consists of: 

CORE PAPERS:

• Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
• Regulation (REG)

OPTIONAL PAPERS: 

• Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
• Information Systems and Control (ISC)
• Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)

• CPA eligibility requires one to two years of supervised experience under a licensed CPA.

CMA Exam Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

• Two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.

• Passing the CMA Exam, which has two parts:

1. Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

2. Strategic Financial Management

• 
  

Choosing Between US CPA or US CMA for Your Future

When deciding between CPA or CMA, consider your career goals:

• Choose CPA if: You want to work in public accounting, auditing, taxation, or financial reporting.

• Choose CMA if: You prefer management accounting, strategic planning, and financial decision-making.

• Pursuing both certifications can enhance your expertise and job opportunities in finance and accounting.

Conclusion

Both the US CPA and US CMA certifications provide excellent career prospects, but their focus areas differ. Assessing your professional goals, exam structure, salary expectations, and industry demand can help you choose the certification better for your career. CMA certification is more focused on topics that make it valuable for those looking for a role in finance and accounting. CMA is an accounting professional like CPA. Choosing between a CMA credential and CPA professional depends on your aspiration and needs.

At NorthStar Academy, we offer expert CMA USA Exam preparation and CPA US Courses to help you achieve your certification goals. Explore our CMA course and ACCA Courses to find the best path for your career.