Top 11 Asset Management Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for an asset management analyst in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge. Certifications show employers that the candidate has the specialized skills and qualifications necessary to do the job. They also prove that the analyst has taken the time to invest in their own professional development, which is highly valued by employers. Additionally, certifications give analysts access to a larger network of professionals in the industry, providing them with more opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Asset Management Analysts, and explains how they can contribute to an asset management analyst's career.

What are Asset Management Analyst Certifications?

Asset management analyst certification is a designation given to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the field of asset management. This certification is typically earned after completing an approved course of study and passing an exam. The certification process provides individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage assets, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate investments, and other financial instruments.

This certification can be beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in asset management or for those currently working in the field who want to demonstrate their expertise. With this certification comes increased credibility and recognition from employers and peers alike. It also demonstrates that the individual has deep knowledge of the industry and its various regulations. Additionally, it can help individuals make more informed decisions when it comes to investing and managing assets. Having this certification may also open up new job opportunities or advancement opportunities within their current organization.

Pro Tip: Asset Management Analyst Certifications can provide a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field of asset management. Take the time to research different certifications offered by professional organizations, as well as their requirements and benefits. Doing so will ensure that you select the certification that best meets your needs.

Related: What does an Asset Management Analyst do?

Top 11 Asset Management Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Asset Management Analysts today.

1. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a professional designation given by the CFA Institute, a global association of investment professionals. The CFA designation is widely recognized as the highest standard of excellence in the field of investment analysis and portfolio management.

The CFA program consists of three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III. Each level requires passing an exam and completing four years of qualifying work experience in the investment industry. To receive the CFA charter, candidates must pass all three levels and meet certain ethical requirements.

It typically takes around 4-6 years to complete all three levels of the CFA program. Candidates can begin their studies for each level at any point during the year; however, they must register for each exam before it is administered by the CFA Institute.

To get started with studying for the CFA Program, candidates should first register with the CFA Institute and purchase study materials from them or other providers such as Kaplan Schweser or Wiley CPAexcel. Once registered, candidates should create a study plan that includes regular practice exams to ensure they are prepared for each level’s exam day.

The cost to take each level of the CFA Program varies depending on when you register; however, it typically costs around $1,000-$2,000 per exam plus additional fees for registration and study materials.

2. Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA)

The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation is a professional certification for individuals who specialize in alternative investments. It is the first and only globally recognized credential for alternative investment professionals. The CAIA program was developed to provide a comprehensive education in alternative investments, covering topics such as hedge funds, private equity, real estate, commodities, structured products and derivatives.

The CAIA program consists of two levels of exams that must be passed to earn the designation. Level I focuses on core knowledge of the alternative investment industry and Level II covers more advanced topics such as portfolio management and risk management. The exams are offered twice per year at testing centers around the world.

In order to sit for the exams, candidates must have a minimum of four years of relevant work experience or have completed an approved academic program. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements such as having a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or equivalent international qualifications.

It typically takes about one year to complete both levels of the CAIA exam if studying full-time; however, it can take longer depending on individual study habits and commitments outside of studying for the exam.

The cost of taking both levels of the CAIA exam is approximately $2,500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. This fee includes all materials needed to prepare for and take the exam as well as access to online study resources.

3. Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA)

Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA) is a professional designation offered by the Investments & Wealth Institute. It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of investment management. The CIMA certification requires individuals to pass an exam that covers topics such as portfolio construction, asset allocation, risk management, investment analysis, and financial planning.

The CIMA certification program consists of two parts: a self-study program and an examination. The self-study program includes online courses, textbooks, and other resources that cover the topics listed above. After completing the self-study program, candidates must pass a three-hour multiple choice exam administered by Prometric Testing Centers.

It typically takes around six months to complete the CIMA certification process from start to finish. However, this timeline can vary depending on how quickly you work through the self-study material and when you are able to take the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CIMA certification varies depending on where you live and which study materials you choose to use for your preparation. In general, it costs around $2,500-$3,000 USD for all of the required materials and exams fees.

4. Financial Risk Manager (FRM)

Financial Risk Manager (FRM) is a professional certification offered by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). It is designed to demonstrate an understanding of the core principles and methods used in financial risk management. The FRM certification is considered one of the most respected certifications in the finance industry.

The FRM exam consists of two parts, Part I and Part II. Part I focuses on quantitative analysis and covers topics such as probability theory, statistics, financial markets and products, portfolio management, derivatives, and market risk measurement. Part II focuses on qualitative analysis and covers topics such as credit risk measurement, operational risk management, legal aspects of risk management, enterprise risk management, investment management and more.

The FRM exam is offered twice a year: once in May and once in November. Each part must be taken separately; however, candidates can take both parts at either time. The exams are administered over a two-day period with four-hour sessions each day.

In order to become certified as an FRM professional, candidates must pass both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 70%. Candidates who pass both parts will receive their official certificate from GARP within 6-8 weeks after completing their exams.

The cost for taking the FRM exam varies depending on when you register for it; however, typically it costs around $1,000 USD for both parts combined. This fee includes registration fees for each part as well as study materials provided by GARP.

5. Certified Portfolio Manager (CPM)

Certified Portfolio Manager (CPM) is a professional designation awarded by the Academy of Certified Portfolio Managers. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in portfolio management. The program consists of three levels of certification, each focusing on different aspects of portfolio management.

The first level is the CPM Level 1, which covers fundamental concepts such as asset allocation, risk management, and performance measurement. This level requires passing an exam and completing a two-day seminar. The second level is the CPM Level 2, which focuses on advanced topics such as portfolio construction, trading strategies, and portfolio optimization. This level also requires passing an exam and completing a four-day seminar. The third level is the CPM Level 3, which focuses on topics related to institutional investing such as hedge funds and private equity investments. This level also requires passing an exam and completing a six-day seminar.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three levels of certification for the CPM designation depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exams and attending seminars.

To get started with becoming a Certified Portfolio Manager (CPM), you must first register with the Academy of Certified Portfolio Managers (ACPM). Once registered, you will be provided with access to study materials for each of the three levels as well as information about upcoming seminars that are required for completion of each level’s certification process.

The cost for obtaining the CPM designation varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD for all three levels combined including registration fees, study materials, exams fees and seminar costs.

6. Certified Fund Specialist (CFS)

Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) is a professional designation offered by the Institute of Business & Finance (IBF). It is designed to provide financial advisors and other professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to help clients make informed decisions about their investments. The CFS program consists of three courses: Investment Planning, Retirement Planning, and Tax Planning. Each course is comprised of five modules that cover topics such as asset allocation, portfolio management, risk management, retirement planning strategies, and tax planning techniques. To earn the CFS designation, individuals must successfully complete all three courses within 18 months.

To get the CFS designation, individuals must first register for the program through IBF's website. Upon registration, they will receive access to study materials and be able to take practice exams before taking the actual exam. Once an individual has passed all three exams, they will be awarded their CFS designation.

The cost for the Certified Fund Specialist program varies depending on which payment plan you choose. The full price for the program is $1,495 USD but there are also installment plans available that allow you to pay in monthly or quarterly payments over 18 months at a reduced rate.

7. Professional Risk Manager (PRM)

Professional Risk Manager (PRM) is a certification program offered by the Professional Risk Managers' International Association (PRMIA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of risk management professionals. The PRM designation is widely recognized as the industry standard for risk management professionals.

The PRM certification consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional, and Master. To obtain the PRM designation, candidates must pass all three exams within a five-year period.

The Foundation exam covers topics such as risk management fundamentals, financial markets and instruments, derivatives, portfolio management, operational risk management, insurance principles, and enterprise risk management. The Professional exam focuses on advanced topics such as credit risk modeling, market risk modeling, asset liability management (ALM), liquidity risk modeling, stress testing models, and capital adequacy models. The Master exam focuses on topics such as enterprise-wide risk management strategy development, regulatory compliance issues in banking and finance industries, managing systemic risks in global markets, and advanced quantitative methods for measuring financial risks.

The cost of the PRM certification program varies depending on the level of certification you are seeking. The cost for the Foundation exam is $595 USD; for the Professional exam it is $695 USD; and for the Master exam it is $795 USD. Additionally there may be additional costs associated with study materials or courses that you choose to take to prepare for each exam.

In terms of time commitment to complete the program it typically takes 6-12 months to complete all three exams depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying per week/month.

8. Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP)

GARP is a global professional organization dedicated to the advancement of risk management. It was founded in 1996 and has since grown to become the leading international association for risk professionals. GARP provides education, training, and certification programs in order to promote best practices in risk management.

The GARP Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designation is the most widely recognized certification for financial risk managers. It is a two-part exam that covers topics such as quantitative analysis, financial markets and products, valuation and risk models, and current issues in financial markets. The FRM Exam typically takes place twice a year in May and November.

In order to get the FRM designation, applicants must first register with GARP by submitting an application form along with payment of the registration fee. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility criteria such as having at least two years of professional experience in finance or related fields. After registering, applicants can then begin studying for the exam using GARP’s study materials which include textbooks, practice tests, webinars, and other resources.

The cost of registering for the FRM Exam varies depending on when you register but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD per part of the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or taking practice tests.

9. Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement (CIPM)

The Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement (CIPM) is a professional certification program offered by the CFA Institute. It is designed to provide financial professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to measure and evaluate investment performance. The CIPM program consists of two exams, Principles of Investment Performance Measurement (PIPM) and Advanced Investment Performance Measurement (AIPM).

The PIPM exam covers topics such as portfolio performance measurement, risk analysis, attribution analysis, and benchmarking. The AIPM exam focuses on advanced topics such as factor-based performance measurement, portfolio optimization, and asset allocation. Both exams are offered twice a year in June and December.

To get the CIPM designation, candidates must pass both PIPM and AIPM exams within three years of starting the program. Candidates must also have four years of professional experience in investment management or related fields.

The cost for the CIPM program varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 USD for all materials required to complete the program. This includes registration fees for both exams, study materials such as textbooks and practice tests, as well as any additional costs associated with taking the exams at a testing center or online proctoring service.

10. Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)

Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to build financial models, analyze financial statements, and value companies. The program is offered by the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI), an online education provider.

The FMVA certification requires completion of five courses: Financial Analysis & Modeling Fundamentals, Advanced Excel Modeling, Financial Statement Modeling, Valuation & Financial Modeling Best Practices, and Business & Corporate Finance. Each course takes approximately 20-25 hours to complete. In total, it generally takes 40-50 hours to complete all five courses and receive the FMVA certification.

To get the FMVA certification, you must first register for the program on CFI’s website and pay for the course bundle. The cost of the bundle varies depending on whether you are a student or professional but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. Once you have completed all five courses, you will be eligible to take an online exam which will assess your understanding of financial modeling and valuation concepts. Upon passing this exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your FMVA certification.

11. Chartered Wealth Manager (CWM).

Chartered Wealth Manager (CWM) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of wealth management. It is awarded by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), a leading professional body for financial services professionals in the UK and internationally.

To become a Chartered Wealth Manager, an individual must meet certain criteria, including:

• Have at least five years’ experience in wealth management or related fields;
• Hold one of the CISI’s approved qualifications;
• Pass the Chartered Wealth Manager Examination; and
• Demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development.

The Chartered Wealth Manager Examination consists of three papers: Financial Markets and Products, Financial Planning, and Investment Management. The exam takes place twice a year, usually in April/May and October/November. It is held over two days and costs £1,000 plus VAT to take part.

Once you have passed the examination, you will be eligible to apply for membership with the CISI as a Chartered Wealth Manager (CWM). This will cost an additional fee of £150 plus VAT per year. As well as providing recognition of your expertise and experience, this also entitles you to access exclusive benefits such as discounts on training courses and events.

Do You Really Need a Asset Management Analyst Certificate?

An Asset Management Analyst Certificate can be beneficial for those looking to break into the asset management field. However, it is important to consider the cost and time associated with obtaining a certificate before making the decision to pursue one.

The primary benefit of an Asset Management Analyst Certificate is that it provides evidence of specialized knowledge in the asset management field. This credential may give you an advantage over other candidates when applying for jobs. It also demonstrates your commitment to professional development and mastery of a specialized field of study. Additionally, some employers may require applicants to have a certificate in order to be considered for certain positions.

On the other hand, obtaining an Asset Management Analyst Certificate can be expensive and time-consuming. Depending on your current job responsibilities and budget, taking courses or attending seminars may not be feasible at this time. Furthermore, many employers prefer experience over certification when hiring for asset management positions. Therefore it is important to weigh the costs and benefits before deciding whether or not to pursue a certificate in this area.

In conclusion, an Asset Management Analyst Certificate can be beneficial for those looking to enter or advance in the asset management field; however, it is important to consider all aspects before making this commitment. If you are interested in pursuing a certificate, you should research available programs and determine if they fit your needs and budget before making any decisions.

Related: Asset Management Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Asset Management Analyst Certifications

1. What is an Asset Management Analyst Certification?

Answer: An Asset Management Analyst Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the principles of asset management and its application to real-world scenarios. It is designed to give practitioners the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage portfolios, investments, and financial assets.

2. How do I become certified as an Asset Management Analyst?

Answer: To become certified as an Asset Management Analyst, you must pass a series of exams administered by a recognized financial institution or professional association. You may also be required to complete additional coursework in asset management topics such as portfolio construction and risk management.

3. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an Asset Management Analyst certification?

Answer: Yes, there is usually a fee associated with obtaining an Asset Management Analyst certification. The cost will vary depending on the certifying organization and the type of exam required for certification.

4. How long does it take to become an Asset Management Analyst?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become an Asset Management Analyst depends on the individual's experience level and ability to study for and pass the necessary exams. Generally speaking, most people can expect to obtain their certification within 6-12 months if they are dedicated to studying for the exams and completing any required coursework.

5. Are there any other benefits associated with obtaining an Asset Management Analyst certification?

Answer: Yes, having an Asset Management Analyst certification can open up career opportunities in areas such as investment banking, wealth management, private equity, hedge funds, or venture capital firms. Additionally, some employers may offer salary incentives or bonuses for employees who hold this type of certification.