Top 10 Systems Accountant Certifications

Certifications are an important factor in the job market for a systems accountant because they demonstrate that a candidate has the necessary skills, knowledge and expertise to successfully perform the duties of the position. By obtaining certifications, systems accountants are able to prove their competency in areas such as accounting software, security protocols, and other technical aspects of financial management. Additionally, certifications can be used to help employers identify qualified candidates who possess the specific qualifications needed for a particular job. These qualifications may include experience with certain software or hardware systems, or industry-specific certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). Lastly, certifications also provide evidence of continuing professional development which is highly valued by employers.

This article reviews the top certifications for Systems Accountants and explains how they can benefit a systems accountant's career.

What are Systems Accountant Certifications?

Systems Accountant Certification is a professional credential designed to help systems accountants demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. This certification is offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and covers topics such as financial statement analysis, auditing, tax compliance, accounting software, and other related topics.

The Systems Accountant Certification provides a comprehensive assessment of an individual's knowledge in these areas. It demonstrates that they have the necessary skills and understanding to be successful in this field. The certification also helps employers identify qualified candidates for various positions within their organization. It can also provide individuals with greater job opportunities as it shows their commitment to the profession and demonstrates their competency in the area.

Moreover, having a Systems Accountant Certification can help boost an accountant’s chances of getting hired or promoted within their current position. Additionally, it can provide them with more credibility when competing against other applicants for higher-level roles. Lastly, employers may offer additional benefits to those who hold this certification such as higher salaries or bonuses based on performance metrics linked to it.

Pro Tip: When considering systems accountant certification, research the requirements and prerequisites for each program to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications and experience to be successful. Additionally, look into what types of courses are offered and if any hands-on training is available as this can be invaluable when it comes to preparing for the certification exams.

Related: What does a Systems Accountant do?

Top 10 Systems Accountant Certifications

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

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation given to individuals who have passed the Uniform CPA Examination and fulfilled other state-specific requirements. CPAs are licensed by their respective states and are responsible for preparing, examining, and verifying financial records. They also provide advice on tax matters, business strategies, investments, and other financial matters.

The process of becoming a CPA varies by state but typically involves passing the Uniform CPA Examination, completing an educational requirement such as a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, meeting an experience requirement through public accounting or industry experience, and obtaining a license from the state board of accountancy. The amount of time it takes to become a CPA can vary greatly depending on the individual's background and experience level. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three years to become a CPA.

In order to become a CPA, you must meet all of the requirements set forth by your state board of accountancy. These requirements include passing the Uniform CPA Examination as well as completing an educational requirement such as a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Additionally, you must meet an experience requirement through public accounting or industry experience. Once these requirements are met, you must obtain a license from your state board of accountancy in order to practice as a CPA.

The cost of becoming a CPA varies depending on which state you live in and what type of education or training you need in order to meet the requirements for licensure. Generally speaking, applicants should expect to pay fees for registration with their state board of accountancy as well as fees associated with taking the Uniform CPA Examination. Additionally, applicants may need to pay for any additional education or training required for licensure such as courses taken at accredited universities or colleges.

2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification granted by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The CMA is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and expertise in management accounting, financial planning, analysis, decision support, and professional ethics.

The CMA exam consists of two parts: Part 1 covers Financial Planning, Performance and Control; and Part 2 covers Financial Decision Making. To become certified, you must pass both parts of the exam within a three-year period.

To get the CMA certification, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set by IMA. These include having a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management, and passing the CMA exam.

The cost for taking the CMA exam will vary depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000 to take both parts of the exam. Additionally, there are fees associated with applying for the exam as well as annual maintenance fees once you have achieved your certification.

3. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is an internationally recognized professional certification awarded by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to demonstrate a mastery of internal auditing skills and knowledge, and to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competence in the field.

To become a CIA, you must meet certain education and experience requirements, pass the CIA exam, and adhere to the IIA's Code of Ethics. The exam is administered by Prometric Testing Centers around the world. It consists of three parts: Part 1 – Essentials of Internal Auditing; Part 2 – Practice of Internal Auditing; and Part 3 – Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing. Each part has multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

The cost for taking the CIA exam varies based on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $895 per part if you are an IIA member or $1,095 per part if you are not an IIA member.

It typically takes between six months and two years to complete all three parts of the CIA exam depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying each week. You will also need to take continuing education courses every year after passing the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

4. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is a 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 achieved a high level of competency in management accounting.

To become a CGMA, you must have an undergraduate degree in accounting or finance, plus at least three years of experience in management accounting. You must also pass the CGMA exam, which consists of two parts: the Financial Strategy and Analysis Exam and the Strategic Business Reporting Exam. The exams are offered twice a year, usually in April and October.

The cost for taking the CGMA exam varies depending on where you take it. In most countries, it costs between $400 and $600 USD. Additionally, there is an annual membership fee to maintain your CGMA designation that ranges from $100 to $200 USD per year.

In total, it takes about six months to complete the process of becoming a CGMA. This includes studying for and passing both exams as well as paying any associated fees.

5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security.

The CISA certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge and skills in five domains: the Process of Auditing Information Systems, Governance and Management of IT, Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation, Information Systems Operations, Maintenance and Support, Protection of Information Assets.

In order to apply for the CISA certification exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include having at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in one or more areas of the CISA job practice areas. Additionally, applicants must submit an application form with supporting documents such as transcripts or diplomas.

The cost for taking the CISA exam varies depending on whether you are an ISACA member or not. For non-members it costs $575 while members pay $450. In addition to this fee there is also a one-time application fee of $50 for all applicants regardless of membership status.

6. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is a professional certification issued by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The CFE credential is recognized internationally as the standard for fraud prevention, detection and deterrence. It is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to detect and prevent financial fraud in organizations.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CFE process. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as fraud theory, investigation techniques, legal elements of fraud, and interviewing and interrogation. After passing the exam, applicants must also complete a two-day training course on fraud examination fundamentals.

The cost of obtaining the CFE credential varies depending on where you live and how you choose to pursue it. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for both the exam and training course combined.

7. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional credential awarded by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in government financial management. The CGFM certification program is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers all aspects of government finance, including budgeting, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and internal controls.

In order to obtain the CGFM certification, applicants must pass three exams: Governmental Environment; Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting & Budgeting; and Governmental Financial Management & Control. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 75% to pass. The exams are offered in both paper-and-pencil and computer formats at various locations throughout the United States.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the CGFM certification process. During this time, applicants must study for and pass all three exams as well as meet other requirements such as completing an ethics course or having two years of relevant experience in government financial management.

The cost for obtaining the CGFM certification varies depending on factors such as whether you are an AGA member or not and which format you choose for taking the exams (paper-and-pencil vs computer). Generally speaking, it costs between $750-$1,000 for non-members and $400-$600 for members.

8. Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)

Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) is a professional designation offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge and experience in auditing financial services organizations. The CFSA credential provides assurance to stakeholders that the individual has met high standards of performance in the field of financial services auditing.

To obtain the CFSA credential, candidates must pass an exam administered by the IIA. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. Candidates must also meet certain education, experience, and ethics requirements set by the IIA.

The written portion of the exam covers topics such as internal control systems, risk management, legal and regulatory compliance, financial statement analysis, and other related topics. The oral portion includes questions about specific case studies and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for and pass the CFSA exam. Candidates should plan on studying for at least three months prior to taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CFSA credential varies depending on where you take the exam and what materials you use for preparation. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD to become certified.

9. 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 credential is widely recognized as the highest standard of excellence in the investment management industry.

It takes an average of four years to earn the CFA charter. To become a CFA charterholder, you must pass three levels of exams and have four years of professional experience in the finance or investment industry. The exams are offered twice a year in June and December, and they cover topics such as economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, portfolio management, equity investments, fixed income investments, derivatives, quantitative methods and alternative investments.

To get started on your path to becoming a CFA charterholder, you must first become a member of the CFA Institute. This requires an initial application fee of $450 USD plus annual membership fees that vary depending on your location. After becoming a member, you can then register for Level I of the exam at a cost of $650 USD per exam level.

The total cost to obtain the CFA charter will depend on how quickly you complete each level and whether or not you need to retake any exams. In general, it can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $4,000 USD for all three levels combined.

10. Certified Professional Accountant in Business Analysis and Valuation (CPBAV)

Certified Professional Accountant in Business Analysis and Valuation (CPBAV) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of accountants who specialize in business analysis and valuation. The CPBAV designation is offered by the Institute of Business Valuation (IBV), an organization dedicated to providing professional education, training, and resources to those in the business valuation profession.

The CPBAV program consists of three parts: a written examination, a practical assessment, and a case study project. The written exam covers topics such as financial statement analysis, economic analysis, industry analysis, business strategy, and more. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts they have learned through the written exam. Finally, the case study project requires applicants to develop a comprehensive business valuation report based on real-world data.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete all three components of the CPBAV program. Applicants must first register with IBV and pay an application fee before they can begin studying for the exam. Once registered, applicants must complete all three components within 12 months or their registration will expire and they will need to reapply.

The total cost of obtaining the CPBAV designation varies depending on where you live but generally ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD including registration fees and costs associated with taking the exams.

Do You Really Need a Systems Accountant Certificate?

The answer to this question largely depends on what you intend to do with the certificate. If you are looking to pursue a career in systems accounting, then yes, it is essential that you obtain a systems accountant certificate. This type of certification is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand complex financial systems and processes, as well as specialized accounting software.

Having a systems accountant certificate can give you an edge when it comes to landing a job in this field. It shows potential employers that you have the requisite training and experience necessary for the position. Additionally, many employers may require that applicants possess this type of certification before they will even consider them for hire.

However, if you are not seeking employment in the field or have no interest in pursuing a career in this area, then obtaining a systems accountant certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it would be more beneficial for you to focus your efforts on gaining other qualifications or experiences that could help further your career goals.

Ultimately, whether or not obtaining a systems accountant certificate is necessary for your particular situation will depend on your individual aspirations and goals.

Related: Systems Accountant Resume Examples

FAQs About Systems Accountant Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Systems Accountant?

Answer: The requirements vary by country and jurisdiction, but typically include a bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field, plus two or more years of professional experience in accounting or finance. Advanced certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) may also be required.

2. How long does it take to complete a Systems Accountant Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to complete a certification varies depending on the specific program, but most programs can be completed within 12-18 months.

3. What is the cost of obtaining a Systems Accountant Certification?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the specific certification program, but range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for more advanced certifications.

4. Are there any differences between a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Systems Accountant?

Answer: Yes, while both CPA’s and Systems Accountants specialize in financial reporting and analysis, CPA’s focus more on traditional accounting principles while Systems Accountants focus more on information systems technology and how it applies to accounting processes.

5. What type of job opportunities are available for those with System Accountant Certifications?

Answer: With their specialized knowledge of information systems technology, System Accountants are well-suited for jobs such as IT auditors, financial analysts, budget analysts, and corporate controllers. They may also find employment in government agencies or large corporations that require expertise in financial management systems and data analysis.