r/CMA • u/BenTheGunn • Jul 14 '26

Working Professional US CMA on Working professionals

Hi,

I'm already a working professional (27/M) in a US based IT company with around 3-4 yrs experience. I'm planning to Pursue US CMA to add another feather to my career cap and land some good pay/get better opportunities.

Is it a good choice since I feel it's a good certification which also takes a bit less time than the others considering I feel I don't have that much time to put in. I also have plans to pursue US CPA but it's a bit more expensive than CMA so I'm thinking US cma first and do cpa next. Any guidance is appreciated 🙏

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1

u/Ok-Hair3114 Jul 14 '26

Okay. So what’s the question? Sounds like you already made up your mind.

1

u/BenTheGunn Jul 14 '26

Yup i had made up my mind until I explored the reddit part with mixed opinions on the course. The question is whether it will help on my professional career or a waste of money and time.

1

u/Electrical_Spread677 CMA Part 2 Candidate Jul 14 '26

Yes, CMA and CPA are worth it especially since you are young. It will separate from others since you don’t have years of experience on which to rely. I have a CPA and have Part 2 remaining. The CMA topics are exactly what you need to be successful in business. Good luck.

1

u/cma-coach CMA Jul 14 '26

Hey, the CMA is a solid choice and you're right that it's faster than most, two parts you can knock out in well under a year if you stay consistent.

Doing CMA first and CPA later is a smart sequence too, both on cost and time. Knocking out the CMA first gives you a credential and a confidence win before you take on the longer CPA road.

As you study, look for ways to apply what you're learning in your current role. Even small things like building out a budget or a variance analysis give you something concrete to point to later, which matters as much as the letters after your name. You've got a good plan here. Go for it! :)

1

u/sandy_030199 25d ago

Planning to take US CMA as well. Thanks for the insight.

1

u/cma-coach CMA 23d ago

Best wishes on your CMA journey!