If an individual is interested in numbers and is driven by ambition, it’s no surprise they will be drawn to areas like accounting and finance. If one wants to pursue these numbers-focused areas then polishing one’s natural skills is essential as it will be very helpful for getting advancement opportunities.

While a degree in Accounting or Finance is a perfect way to begin, one may be wondering about potential accounting & finance certifications to pursue down the line in order to help bolster one’s resume.

Doing certification in finance and accounts highlights that one has put in the time and effort to enhance their knowledge and skills by expanding it in better ways. More and more individuals nowadays have access to university education. Consequently, this means that bachelor’s degrees have become less valuable. Therefore, acquiring a professional certification will help an individual to stand out from the crowd and to gain an edge over the current competition.

Financial accounting certification is perfect proof for employers that one possesses the skills and specialized knowledge to succeed. Thus, it is a great way to enhance reputation, earning power, and job prospects. There are quite a few certifications related that are related to finance and accounting to choose from. One wants to make sure there are putting their energy toward earning the credential that perfectly fits the career goals.

In this article, let’s have a rundown on top accounting & finance certifications that will ensure to enhance one’s ability to deliver top-quality financial analysis as well as makes the employer take notice.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) financial accounting certification needs are offered by the IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) which is recognized globally. It verifies competency in cost management, decision analysis, forecasting, and internal control auditing. It also provides a mastery of critical accounting and financial management skills from an internal, managerial, and generalized perspective.

Most accountants get both the CPA and CMA credentials, mainly if they are pursuing careers in big, multinational firms. The CMA is described as a mainly practical application of theoretical concepts tested in the CPA exam. Aspirants should have a bachelor’s degree and two consecutive years in management accounting or financial management. The exam has two levels for a total of 8 hours. The ongoing prerequisites consist of 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) credits.

Chartered Investment & Management Accountant (CIMA®) 

Chartered Investment and Management Accountant (CIMA®) is the perfect certification in finance and accounts for those professionals who are looking to start a global career to be an investment & management accountant professional. It is among the world’s most uniquely designed credentials in the discipline of finance and accounting from the United States.

CIMA® is a perfectly distinctive validation of advanced-level competence of individuals in two of the most quickly emerging super-specialization areas in accounting – investment accounting, and management accounting. It is top financial accounting certification, the CIMA® charter offers every applicant with a proven promise and readiness for gathering the needed and in-demand financial intelligence that globally several firms are required to monitor, manage and grow their businesses and investment assets and portfolios.

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

The American Payroll Association (APA) awards the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification to payroll specialists who are looking to advance their careers. Earning the CPP credential signifies an in-depth knowledge of payroll taxes, benefits issues, compliance, and more.

Payroll professionals are eligible to take the CPP exam if they have worked in payroll for at least three of the last five years. However, those with less work experience have the option of completing certain APA payroll programs and taking the exam sooner. Once certified, CPP-holders should remain in good standing through continuing education hours.