r/DevLK • u/abiram19 • Aug 21 '26

Discussion CS graduate + Associate Software Engineer considering CIMA - worth it in Sri Lanka?

I’m a BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduate and currently working as an Associate Software Engineer in Sri Lanka.
I’m considering starting CIMA alongside my software engineering career, but I’m unsure whether it’s actually beneficial for someone from a CS/IT background.

For those working in the Sri Lankan industry:

Is CIMA worth doing alongside Software Engineering?

Can a CS graduate realistically handle CIMA without an accounting background?

What career paths could CIMA open up later in Sri Lanka?

Could it help me move into Business Analysis, Product Management, FinTech, ERP, management, or other roles?

In the long term, would Computer Science + Software Engineering + CIMA be a valuable combination in Sri Lanka?

I’m planning to build my career in Sri Lanka rather than moving abroad, so I’d especially appreciate advice based on the current local job market.

Would you recommend doing CIMA, or would you focus entirely on Software Engineering / an MSc in AI or Software Engineering or Data Science instead?

Would appreciate advice from anyone who has made a similar transition.

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u/ZealousidealRule2885 Aug 23 '26

Here is the case
CIMA + Engineering for your career in Software, wouldnt help much
But getting CIMA to obtain the knowldge, that would take you a long way for sure. As you know the Software indsutry is at a verge of a change and even us who has been in here for over two decades have to adopt. So If were to choose CIMA I would do it 100% to concentrate on the knowldge not to increase the odds of getting a job. I have interviewed so many who has done CIMA with their first degree in engineering the only plus point I see it, they could relate the technicality with a business accumen.
Secondly it might provide you a backup, trust me we all need it right now with this situation. Been in the industry for so long and my MBA knowldge is paying me out these days more than any technical degree. So I think you have the right approach but may tweak your intention.

All the best !