Top 10 Intermediate Accountant Certifications

Certifications for an intermediate accountant are important in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge. They can help to set an individual apart from other applicants and may lead to more job opportunities or advancements in their career. Certifications also signal to employers that the individual is committed to developing their professional skills and staying up-to-date with industry standards. In addition, certifications can make it easier for individuals to transition into new roles or industries as they demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles. Finally, certifications can be beneficial for networking purposes and provide individuals with access to a larger professional network.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available to intermediate accountants and how they can help to further their career.

What are Intermediate Accountant Certifications?

Intermediate accountant certification is an intermediate-level accounting credential offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It is a step up from the basic CPA certification and provides a more advanced level of professional competency in the field of accounting. The Intermediate Accountant Certification is designed to provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and other related topics. This certification can be beneficial to those who are looking to advance their career in the field of accounting and gain additional knowledge and skills that will help them succeed in their profession.

The Intermediate Accountant Certification provides professionals with increased opportunities for higher-level positions within organizations or even open up the possibility of starting their own business. With this certification, individuals are better equipped to handle complex financial transactions, analyze data, and make sound decisions based on their knowledge. Additionally, having this certification can demonstrate one’s commitment to staying current with best practices and industry standards, as well as show potential employers that they have a deep understanding of the accounting field.

Pro Tip: When pursuing an intermediate accountant certification, make sure to research the requirements and fees associated with the program. This will help you to prepare ahead of time and ensure that you have all of the necessary qualifications to successfully complete the certification.

Related: What does an Intermediate Accountant do?

Top 10 Intermediate Accountant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Intermediate Accountants today.

1. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification in the field of management accounting that is awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The CMA credential demonstrates that an individual has achieved a mastery of financial planning, analysis, control, decision support and professional ethics.

It typically takes 1-2 years to complete the CMA program. To get the CMA designation, you must pass two exams: Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance and Control, and Part 2 – Strategic Financial Management. You must also meet educational requirements and have at least two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.

The cost to become a CMA varies depending on your location and how you choose to study for the exam. The IMA offers various packages with different levels of support ranging from $1,000 to $3,500 USD. In addition to the exam fees, there are also membership dues which range from $50-$150 USD per year.

2. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is the most widely recognized certification for internal auditors and demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field. The CIA designation is awarded to individuals who have met specific educational, experience, and examination requirements.

To become a Certified Internal Auditor, candidates must meet certain education and experience requirements as well as pass three exams: Essentials of Internal Auditing, Practice of Internal Auditing, and the Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing exam. Candidates must also agree to abide by the IIA Code of Professional Ethics.

The process typically takes between six months to two years depending on how quickly you complete the education and experience requirements. Once you have completed all requirements, you can register for the exams through IIA's website.

The cost of becoming a Certified Internal Auditor varies depending on your country or region but typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 USD including registration fees, exam fees, study materials, and other associated costs.

3. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It is one of the most respected and sought-after credentials in the accounting field. CPAs are licensed to provide a variety of services, such as auditing financial statements, preparing tax returns, giving financial advice, and providing consulting services.

In order to become a CPA, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements set by the AICPA. Generally speaking, it takes approximately five years to become a CPA. This includes completing 150 hours of college coursework in accounting and related topics; passing the Uniform CPA Examination; and meeting any additional state-specific requirements.

The cost of becoming a CPA depends on several factors, including the state in which you live, your education level, and whether you need to take any additional courses or exams. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 to become a CPA depending on these factors.

4. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery in the field of management accounting.

To get the CGMA designation, you must first meet certain educational and work experience requirements. You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, two years of professional-level experience in management accounting or financial management, and pass the CGMA exam. The exam consists of four parts: Financial Reporting, Strategy & Performance Management, Risk Management & Control, and Business Analysis & Valuation.

The cost to take the CGMA exam varies depending on your location, but it typically ranges from $450 to $550 USD. The exam can be taken at any Prometric testing center around the world. Once you have passed all four parts of the exam, you will receive your official CGMA designation certificate.

Overall, it usually takes between six months to one year to complete all the requirements for obtaining a CGMA designation.

5. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is a professional certification issued by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of fraud examination. The CFE credential is recognized by governments, corporations, and law enforcement agencies around the world.

To become a CFE, an individual must pass an exam administered by the ACFE. The exam consists of four sections: financial transactions and fraud schemes; law; investigation; and fraud prevention and deterrence. It takes approximately five hours to complete the exam, which is offered twice a year at testing centers throughout the world.

In order to be eligible for the CFE Exam, applicants must meet certain educational requirements or have two years of full-time anti-fraud work experience. Applicants must also agree to abide by the ACFE Code of Professional Ethics.

The cost of taking the CFE Exam varies depending on where it is taken and when it is taken. In general, it costs between $400-$600 USD to take the exam. Additionally, there are annual renewal fees associated with maintaining a CFE credential which range from $50-$100 USD per year.

6. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) to recognize individuals who demonstrate the highest level of proficiency in government financial management. The CGFM certification program is designed to ensure that government financial managers have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage public funds.

It takes approximately one year to complete all three parts of the CGFM exam. The exam consists of three parts: Government Environment, Government Accounting and Financial Reporting, and Government Budgeting and Fiscal Management. Each part requires a passing score on a multiple-choice test as well as an essay question.

To qualify for the CGFM exam, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements. You must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with at least 24 semester hours in accounting, auditing, finance, or related fields; or you must have at least five years of full-time professional experience in government financial management positions; or you must have both a bachelor's degree and two years of full-time professional experience in government financial management positions.

The cost to take the CGFM exam varies depending on where you live. In most cases, it will cost between $200-$400 for each part of the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and submitting your application materials.

7. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is an internationally recognized certification for professionals who audit, control, monitor and assess information technology and business systems. It is administered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

The CISA certification requires a minimum of five years of professional information systems auditing, control or security work experience. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as IT governance and management, IT acquisition, development and implementation, IT operations and support, protection of information assets and business continuity planning.

In order to obtain the CISA certification, candidates must first register with ISACA. After registration is complete, applicants must pay the CISA examination fee of $575 USD. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions which must be completed within four hours. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CISA certificate in 6-8 weeks.

The cost to maintain the CISA certification is $45 USD per year plus a one-time renewal fee of $50 USD every three years. To maintain the certification status active, ISACA requires that certified individuals complete at least 20 continuing professional education (CPE) credits each year.

8. Accredited Business Accountant/Advisor (ABA/ABV)

Accredited Business Accountant/Advisor (ABA/ABV) is a professional designation awarded by the Institute of Certified Management Accountants (ICMA). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in business accounting and financial management. The ABA/ABV designation is a mark of distinction that indicates an individual has attained a significant level of knowledge and experience in the field.

The requirements for obtaining the ABA/ABV designation include passing an exam administered by ICMA, completing at least three years of relevant work experience, and meeting continuing education requirements. The exam consists of four parts: Financial Accounting & Reporting, Management Accounting & Analysis, Taxation, and Corporate Finance & Valuation.

The cost for obtaining the ABA/ABV designation varies depending on the country or region where you are located. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

It typically takes around six months to complete all the requirements for obtaining the ABA/ABV designation. During this time, you will need to study for and pass the exam, complete any required work experience hours, and meet any other continuing education requirements set forth by ICMA.

9. Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada)

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada) is a professional designation that is recognized across the world. It is awarded by CPA Canada, which is an organization of professional accountants in Canada. CPA Canada works to uphold high standards of accounting and financial reporting in order to protect the public interest.

In order to become a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), individuals must complete the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP). This program consists of two parts: the Common Final Examination (CFE) and the CPA Prerequisite Education Program (CPA PREP). The CFE is a three-day exam that tests knowledge and skills acquired through academic studies and practical experience. The CPA PREP consists of four modules that focus on core competencies such as financial reporting, assurance services, management accounting, taxation, finance, strategy and governance.

It typically takes between two and five years to complete the requirements for the CPA designation. This includes completing an undergraduate degree or equivalent education program; gaining relevant work experience; completing all four modules of the CPA PREP; passing the Common Final Exam; meeting any additional provincial/territorial requirements; and becoming a member in good standing with one of Canada’s provincial/territorial institutes or societies of CPAs.

The cost for obtaining the CPA designation varies depending on individual circumstances such as location and type of education program completed prior to enrolling in the CFE. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$4,000 CAD for tuition fees for each part of the program plus additional costs associated with books, study materials, exams fees etc.

10. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a professional designation awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board). It is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize professionals who have met the CFP Board’s education, examination, experience and ethics requirements. The CFP designation is widely recognized and respected in the financial services industry as a mark of excellence.

It typically takes three to five years to complete the educational and exam requirements for CFP certification. To become certified, individuals must complete an approved college-level course of study in financial planning, pass a comprehensive two-day exam administered by the CFP Board, and meet certain experience requirements.

The cost of obtaining the CFP certification varies depending on your individual circumstances. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend between $2,500-$4,000 for tuition, textbooks and exam fees. Additionally, you may need to purchase additional materials such as review courses or practice exams which could add up to another $1,000 or more.

Do You Really Need a Intermediate Accountant Certificate?

The Intermediate Accountant Certificate is a great way to further your career in the field of accounting. It provides a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of accounting and gives you the opportunity to apply this knowledge to practice. The certificate also demonstrates that you have obtained a high level of professional competence and are qualified to practice accounting at an advanced level.

There are many different reasons why someone might want to pursue an Intermediate Accountant Certificate. For those who already have a basic understanding of accounting, this certification can be beneficial for advancing their career prospects. It can help demonstrate that you have gone above and beyond in your studies and understand various concepts related to financial reporting, auditing, taxation, cash flow management, and other topics related to accounting. This certification can also open up career opportunities with larger organizations that require more experienced accountants to manage their finances.

For those just starting out in the field of accounting or looking for a way to break into the profession, obtaining an Intermediate Accountant Certificate can provide valuable training and experience needed to become successful as an accountant. By completing this certification program, you will gain confidence in your abilities as an accountant and be able to gain access to jobs that may have been previously unavailable due to lack of qualifications or experience. You will also be able to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to excellence through certifications such as this one.

In conclusion, obtaining an Intermediate Accountant Certificate is a great way for anyone interested in furthering their career prospects in the field of accounting. With its comprehensive education on financial reporting, auditing, taxation, cash flow management, and other topics related to accounting, it can open up new job opportunities with larger organizations or give those just starting out in the profession the skills they need for success.

Related: Intermediate Accountant Resume Examples

FAQs About Intermediate Accountant Certifications

1. What is an intermediate accountant certification?

An intermediate accountant certification is a professional designation that shows employers you have the knowledge and skills needed to work as an accountant at an advanced level. It typically requires passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics like financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management.

2. What qualifications are required for an intermediate accountant certification?

In order to qualify for an intermediate accountant certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics like financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management. Additionally, applicants must meet certain educational requirements such as having a college degree in accounting or related field and/or several years of experience working in the field.

3. How long does it take to obtain an intermediate accountant certification?

The amount of time it takes to obtain an intermediate accountant certification varies depending on the specific requirements of the certifying body. Generally speaking though, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary requirements and pass the exam.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as an intermediate accountant?

The cost of obtaining an intermediate accountant certification varies depending on which certifying body you choose and what type of study materials you purchase or use. Generally speaking though, costs can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on the program chosen and any additional materials needed for studying.

5. Is there a difference between CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and Intermediate Accountant Certifications?

Yes, there is a difference between CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certifications and Intermediate Accountant certifications; while both require passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics like financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management; CPA certifications also require additional education beyond just passing the exams such as completing 150 hours of college coursework in accounting-related subjects or having two years of public accounting experience under their belts prior to taking the exams; whereas Intermediate Accountant certifications do not require this additional education beyond just passing the exams.