When most accountants think about career growth, the question usually sounds like this: Should I go after the CPA or the CMA?
But here’s the real secret—sometimes the smartest move isn’t choosing one at all. It’s stacking both credentials.
The CPA license gives you authority in public accounting, auditing, and tax. The CMA certification builds expertise in strategy, corporate finance, and management. Together, they create a powerful toolkit that can make you stand out in any corner of the profession.
Think of it this way: the CPA proves you’ve mastered the rules, while the CMA shows you know how to apply them to drive business decisions. Having both the CPA and CMA isn’t about doubling your workload; it’s about doubling your opportunities.
Quick quiz: Should you pursue both the CPA and CMA?
Answer these questions honestly. If you say yes to most, the dual path might be for you.
Do you already have your CPA license but want to move into leadership roles (controller, CFO, VP of Finance)?
→ Yes? Add the CMA.Do you want career options in both public accounting and corporate finance?
→ Yes? Dual credentials will give you that flexibility.Are you interested in international opportunities?
→ Yes? The CMA is globally recognized and pairs perfectly with the CPA.Do you want to differentiate yourself in a competitive hiring pool?
→ Yes? Having both CPA and CMA after your name sets you apart.Are you aiming for higher long-term earning potential?
→ Yes? Studies show dual-certified professionals often out-earn peers.
CPA vs. CMA: What’s the difference?
Before you understand why they’re stronger together, let’s look at what makes each unique:
CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
- Covers broad areas: auditing, tax, financial reporting, and regulation.
- Career paths: public accounting, government, corporate finance, consulting.
- Seen as the gold standard for accounting credibility and compliance.
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CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
- Focuses on management accounting, strategy, risk, and decision-making.
- Career paths: corporate controller, FP&A, CFO track, operations.
- Seen as the credential for leadership and financial strategy.
On their own, each certification is powerful. But if your goal is to move beyond entry- or mid-level accounting roles into senior leadership, having both signals that you’re fluent in the language of compliance and the language of strategy.
How CPA and CMA Work Together
You don’t have to silo your learning. These two credentials complement each other in several ways:
- Shared knowledge base: Both CPA and CMA Exams test financial reporting and controls, meaning studying for one can reinforce the other.
- Career flexibility: You can move between public accounting and corporate management roles without starting from scratch.
- Experience overlap: Work experience for the CPA often counts toward CMA requirements, saving you time.
- CPE synergy: Continuing education can often fulfill requirements for both licenses at once.
Why Pursue Both?
Here’s what dual certification really gives you:
- Career Mobility: Want to shift from public accounting to a corporate finance role—or vice versa? Having both credentials makes that transition smoother.
- Leadership Advantage: Many CFOs and CEOs hold multiple credentials. The combination of CPA and CMA tells employers you can handle compliance and strategy at the highest level.
- Global Recognition: The CPA is widely respected in the U.S., while the CMA carries international weight. Together, they open both domestic and global doors.
- Differentiation: Plenty of candidates will have one or the other. Fewer will have both. Two sets of three letters after your name can set you apart in a competitive hiring pool.
- Higher Earning Potential: Studies consistently show dual-certified accountants earn more than peers with a single credential. Companies pay for versatility and leadership readiness.
When to Add the CMA to Your CPA
If you already hold your CPA license, here’s when it makes sense to add the CMA:
- You’re eyeing corporate leadership (controller, FP&A, CFO).
- You want to transition from auditing/tax to strategic finance.
- You’re looking for international career opportunities.
- You want to boost your earning potential without leaving accounting.
Even if you’re happy in public accounting, having CMA-level strategy skills makes you a more valuable advisor to your clients.
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to see the CPA and CMA as competing paths, but they don’t have to be. Earning both is like building a bridge between compliance and strategy, technical knowledge and executive decision-making.
Ready to explore both credentials? Becker offers full prep for both exams, with resources that help you build on overlapping content and streamline your study. Start with Becker’s CPA Exam Review or CMA Exam Review today and see how far your dual certification can take you.
