Certified Management Accountant - Coles College of Business

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

CMAs are accountants and financial professionals who excel in analysis, control, decision support, and financial planning. CMAs serve in senior roles like controller, CFO, budget analyst, finance manager, and cost accountant. CMAs are equipped to answer the “what and why” behind the numbers. On average, CMAs make 37% more compensation than non-CMAs.

To become a CMA, candidates must pass the CMA exam and satisfy education requirements. The CMA exam is administered in two parts:

Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
Strategic Financial Management.

Candidates must complete both parts within three years. The typical time frame to pass is about 12 – 18 months.

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), circa 1919, oversees the administration of the CMA exam (circa 1972). The Atlanta Chapter of the IMA meets throughout the year.

KSU students are encouraged to start a Student Chapter!

CMA Requirements

Requirements for CMA certification:

Obtain an undergraduate degree or higher, or professional certification in a related field (e.g., CPA)
Pass the two-part CMA exam
- Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
- Part 2 – Strategic Financial Management
Two years of related work experience.

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) recommends 150 – 170 hours of study in preparation for the CMA Exam.

Learn more from these CMA student resources:

Know how to prepare for your CMA certification:

CMA FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification.

Where do I go to learn more about the CMA exam?

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) has an extensive FAQ section, including answers to concerns about the CMA Exam.
Who might I contact at KSU to learn more about the IMA and the CMA exam?

Our part-time Instructor of Accounting, Lee Woodward, can help answer your questions.
E-mail
Where do I take the exam?

The CMA Exam is administered at Prometric Testing Centers throughout Georgia. Locate a testing center nearest to you and get started today.
When can I take the exam?
Exams can be taken during three (3) testing time periods:
- January and February
- May and June
- September and October
Where are the scholarship application forms?

Please complete this form, and we will send you the relevant link.

Send the completed application form to Amanda York.
E-mail
When are the scholarship applications due?

KSU students should apply from November 1 until March 1.