Best Alternative Certifications and Designations for Finance Professionals Instead of the CFA® Charter
The CFA charter is often recognized as the most highly regarded credential in the finance industry, but it's not the only path to career advancement and expertise in the field. For both finance professionals and aspiring ones, seeking alternative certifications that offer specialized knowledge can open doors to new opportunities. There are several other options to consider based on your specific career goals and interests.
In this article, we will explore some of the best alternative finance certifications highlighting their unique benefits and how they can help you thrive in your finance career.
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The Role Certifications Play in the Finance Industry
Certifications play a significant role in the finance industry for both individuals starting their careers in finance and those already established in the field. They can help differentiate you from your peers, give you access to new clients, learn new problem-solving techniques and much more depending on where you are at in your career.
For Someone Starting a Career in Finance
If you are considering starting a career in finance and wondering what a certification can do for you there are a few main areas these certifications can be used for.
Competitive Advantage
In a highly competitive job market, certifications can help increase your overall knowledge and experience giving you a competitive edge over someone that may have slightly more professional experience than you.
As you browse open positions, pay attention to the requirements and preferred qualifications for the positions you are interested in applying for. If you notice a trend, you’ll probably want to pursue that specific designation at some point in your career.
Industry Recognition
The certifications provided in this article are widely recognized and respected within the finance industry. Earning these credentials will enhance your credibility and signal to potential employers that you possess a certain level of proficiency in that particular area of finance.
Skill Validation
A lot of people just starting out will look to certifications as a way to validate their skills and knowledge in specific areas of finance. Since they don’t have much professional experience yet, this is a great way to boost your resume/CV and keep learning while you look for that next professional experience.
For Someone Already In the Finance Industry
If you are already working in finance and wondering what a finance certification can do for your career trajectory, ask yourself a few questions.
Are You Looking to Differentiate Yourself From Your Peers?
Finance certifications can play a crucial role in career progression in the finance industry by enhancing your qualifications and expanding your skill set. They demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which can open doors to promotions and higher-level positions
If you notice your supervisors and higher-ups all hold a particular designation, then you’ll probably want to pursue the same one if you’re interested in a similar position.
Do You Want to Specialize in a Particular Area Like Investment Management?
Most finance certifications will focus on specific areas such as investment management, risk analysis, financial planning, or accounting. By pursuing certifications in these specialized fields, you can position yourself as an expert in these niche areas and start to look for opportunities in these specialized areas.
Are You Looking For New Networking Opportunities?
Many certification programs provide networking opportunities with professionals in the industry. Engaging with fellow certificate holders can broaden your professional network and provide access to valuable connections. Most programs will require you to maintain a membership and some even require you to join a local society to help support the next generation of professionals.
Do You Need Help Keeping Up With Industry Trends?
The finance industry is constantly evolving, and certifications often require ongoing education to maintain their validity. By pursuing a certification, finance professionals can stay up to date on the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices, ensuring their knowledge remains current.
They can also serve as a great refresher on topics you may have learned in the past but haven't used much lately.
How to Choose a CFA Alternative Certification
While the CFA charter is widely recognized and highly respected in the financial industry, it is rigorous and requires a significant time commitment, financial resources, and a strong finance background. Some require less time and money to pursue but all of the worthwhile credentials in the finance industry are demanding.
To help you figure out which credential is a better fit, consider your career goals, experience level, budget, and the time you have available for studying.
Your Career Goals
Look at those around you for inspiration. Consider your long-term career goals and the certifications that align with those goals. If you aspire to move into a specific role or specialize in a particular area of finance, identifying relevant certifications early on can help you plan your career path and acquire the necessary skills and qualifications.
Your Experience Levels
Most certifications in finance require a certain level of experience or foundational knowledge to be eligible. It's generally recommended to gain some practical experience in the finance industry before pursuing certifications.
Some will let you enroll in the program without any experience however you won’t be able to progress for long without getting some professional experience. This experience will not only help you understand the concepts better but also provide context and relevance to the certification content.
Your Budget
All finance certifications will come with a price tag but some will cost more than others. Typically the more expensive finance certifications will carry more weight on your resume but those may take longer to attain. Another factor to consider is whether you will have to pay an annual fee to keep the certification active.
When you're just starting your career you may not be able to spend thousands of dollars on preparing for a finance certification but you have a few hundred dollars that will get you an entry-level certification such as the certificate in ESG Investing. Then as you progress in your career you can pursue a more prestigious designation like becoming a CFA charterholder.
Your Time Commitment
Unlike your budget considerations, you may have more time to pursue certifications earlier in your career. The most important thing to remember is that if you don’t have the time to dedicate a sufficient amount of time to preparing for a certification, especially one you pay for, do not start it yet.
For example, the CFA charter usually takes a few years to earn and candidates at each exam level can spend 6 months preparing.
You also should consider that it’s uncommon for candidates in most of the certifications listed in this article to pass all exams the first time and some programs will not allow you to retake the exam without waiting for a short period of time.
So when you are asking yourself if you have enough time to pursue a particular designation, factor in some extra time for retaking an exam or two and those uncontrollable life events that will take precedence over your professional development.
Top CFA Alternative Certifications
There are many different finance certifications to choose from when investing in your professional development. Some designations are meant to support you as you specialize in certain areas like alternative investments and ESG factors, whereas others are meant to establish you as a trusted expert in accounting and investment management.
Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
The FRM certification is a globally recognized professional designation for risk management professionals. It is offered by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) and consists of two levels, FRM Part I and FRM Part II.
The certification focuses on various aspects of financial risk management, including market risk, credit risk, operational risk, and risk modeling.
Enrollment Requirements
There are no education requirements to enroll in the FRM Program but GARP does offer a discounted registration fee for candidates who have a full two years of full-time work experience in risk management.
Download the free Before You Sit for the FRM Exam eBook for advice from successful FRM professionals
Best Fit For
If you are already working in the finance industry, the FRM certification can significantly benefit your career trajectory by providing specialized knowledge in risk management, enhancing your professional reputation, expanding your job opportunities, and connecting you with a global network of risk management professionals.
Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA)
The CAIA charter is an industry-wide recognized financial designation for individuals seeking expertise in alternative investments. It is offered by the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association and is made up of two levels, CAIA Level I and CAIA Level II.
The certification focuses on topics such as hedge funds, private equity, real estate, commodities, and advanced alternative investment strategies.
Enrollment Requirements
You’ll need a bachelor's degree in any field, and at least two years of experience to enroll in the CAIA program. If you don’t have a bachelor's degree, you’ll need four years of experience to enroll in the CAIA program.
Download the free Before You Decide to Sit for the CAIA Exam eBook for valuable advice from successful CAIA professionals
Best Fit For
If you are already working in the finance industry, the CAIA charter provides specialized knowledge and skills in alternative investments, which can enhance your expertise and differentiate you from colleagues.
By pursuing the CAIA charter early on, you position yourself for long-term career growth and advancement in specialized roles within the finance industry.
Investment Management Certification (IMC)
The IMC is the foundational qualification for professionals entering the investment industry in the UK. CFA UK is responsible for developing, delivering, and awarding this qualification.
It provides essential knowledge for individuals who want to be involved in portfolio management, research analysis, and other front-office investment activities.
You’ll need to pass two exams to earn the IMC designation. The exams cover subjects such as economics, accounting, investment practice, regulation, and ethics, which are crucial topics in investment management.
Enrollment Requirements
You do not need any formal prior work experience to enroll in the IMC program but you must have a bachelor's degree in any field and be at least 18 years old.
Best Fit For
Pursuing the IMC at the beginning of your finance career demonstrates a focused commitment to the field, foundational knowledge development, and a desire to specialize in investment management. It enhances your professional credibility, provides a competitive advantage in the job market, and aligns you with industry standards and best practices.
If you are already working in the finance industry, pursuing the IMC allows you to deepen your knowledge and enhance your skills in specific areas of investment management. It provides you with a more comprehensive understanding of investment principles, portfolio management techniques, asset allocation strategies, risk management, and financial analysis.
Certificate in ESG Investing
The Certificate in ESG Investing is a specialized program that focuses on Environmental, Social, and Governance factors in investment decision-making offered by the CFA Institute. This certificate provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate ESG considerations into investment strategies, portfolio management, and risk analysis.
There is only one exam required to earn the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing. The program covers various aspects of ESG investing, including understanding the principles and frameworks of ESG, assessing ESG risks and opportunities, incorporating ESG factors into investment analysis, and evaluating the impact of ESG on financial performance.
Enrollment Requirements
There are no formal enrollment requirements for the Certificate in ESG Investing. However, it is strongly recommended that candidates have a solid grounding in the investment process whether that is gained by a college degree or work experience before enrolling.
Best Fit For
The certificate program is often suggested for current finance professionals, including investment managers, analysts, financial advisors, and other industry practitioners who want to enhance their expertise in sustainable investing and meet the growing demand for ESG integration in the financial sector.
Certificate in ESG Investing Exam Details >>
Chartered SRI Counselor℠ (CSRIC)
The CSRIC designation is offered by the College for Financial Planning in partnership with the United States Sustainable Investment Forum.
There is only one exam required to earn the CSRIC designation. The program is designed to help financial advisors understand the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors that can impact investment performance and to develop the skills they need to advise clients on SRI investments.
Enrollment Requirements
In order to enroll in the CSRIC program, you’ll need to have a bachelor's degree, in any field, and at least two years of experience in the financial services industry.
Best Fit For
The CSRIC designation is a valuable credential for financial advisors who want to demonstrate their expertise in SRI investing specifically. The designation can help financial advisors attract new clients who are interested in SRI investing and can also help financial advisors increase their salaries.
Chartered Accountant (CA)
The CA designation is recognized by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and is one of the most respected accounting designations in the world.
The CA Program is a postgraduate qualification involving a series of exams. Each country's programs usually consist of multiple levels of examinations covering various accounting, auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and business subjects.
Some well-known accounting bodies include the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), Chartered Accountants Ireland, and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
The number of exams you need to pass to become a CA depends on the country you are in. In India, for example, you need to pass three exams.
Enrollment Requirements
Once you have the free time to pursue the CA, you can enroll in a Chartered Accountancy program provided by your country's accounting body. Most programs have specific educational prerequisites so you have that in place before registering.
Best Fit For
The CA designation is a similar designation as the CPA but is more popular in countries that follow the British accounting system, such as Singapore, India, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom. It’s a great designation for individuals aspiring to pursue or already engaged in a career as an accountant.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
The CPA designation is recognized by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and is the most widely held accounting credential in the United States.
The Uniform CPA Examination is a four-part exam that covers accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law. The exam is administered by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).
Enrollment Requirements
To become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the United States, you need to complete a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution with a specific number of accounting and business-related credits. Check the eligibility requirements for the CPA exam in your chosen state, as each state has its own criteria.
You’ll need to register for and pass the Uniform CPA Examination, which consists of four parts covering various accounting topics. Some states require relevant work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA. Additionally, certain states may require you to pass an ethics exam.
Best Fit For
The CPA designation is a great credential for individuals interested in becoming or currently working as an accountant. The CPA designation is more popular in countries that follow the American accounting system, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia so if you are in a different country consider pursuing a CA credential instead.
Certified Management Accounting (CMA)
The CMA designation is a professional credential that is awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants.
There are two exams required to earn the CMA designation. which covers topics such as financial planning, analysis, control, decision-making, and strategic management.
Enrollment Requirements
To become a Certified Management Accountant, you’ll need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.
Best Fit For
The CMA designation is a good fit for those interested in a career in management accounting. CMAs typically have job titles like financial analyst, accounting manager, controller, treasurer, all the way up to chief financial officer.
Certified Financial Planner® (CFP)
The CFP designation is recognized as the gold standard in financial planning by consumers, employers, and financial institutions. You’ll need to pass one exam to earn the CFP designation. The program covers specific topics in financial planning like investments, retirement planning, taxes, estate planning, and risk management.
Enrollment Requirements
To become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), you need to possess a bachelor's degree and at least 6,000 hours of professional experience in financial planning or a related field (or 4,000 hours with certain relevant degrees or certifications) and fulfill the ethics requirement by submitting background information and adhering to the CFP Board's ethical standards.
Best Fit For
Many people pursue the CFP designation early in their careers, as it can help them advance their careers and earn higher salaries. Others may pursue the CFP designation later in their careers, as a way to change careers or to enhance their expertise in financial planning.
CFP professionals are fiduciaries, which means they are legally obligated to act in the best interests of their clients.
According to a CFP Board survey, the age of people who pass the CFP exam is most commonly 40-49. However, there is a wide range of ages, with some people passing the exam in their early 20s and others passing the exam in their 70s and 80s.
Chartered Market Technician® (CMT)
The CMT credential is a global designation for finance professionals who want to specialize in technical analysis. It’s administered by the CMT Association and is a three-part examination similar to the CFA Program.
Enrollment Requirements
To enroll in the CMT Program, you must have 3 years of approved professional work experience.
Best Fit For
According to the CMT Association, most people pursue the CMT designation in their mid-careers, after they have gained some experience in the financial services industry. The average age of people who pass the CMT exam is 35. However, there is a wide range of ages, with some people passing the exam in their early 20s and others passing the exam in their 50s and 60s.
There are a few reasons why most people pursue the CMT designation in their mid-careers. First, by this point in their careers, they have usually developed a strong foundation in finance and investing. Second, they have typically gained some experience in the financial services industry, which gives them a better understanding of how technical analysis can be used to make investment decisions.
Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)
The Certified Treasury Professional designation is typically pursued by professionals who work in the field of treasury management. The CTP designation is highly valued in the finance industry and is recognized as a mark of expertise and competency in treasury management.
There is only one exam required to earn the CTP designation. The program covers specific topics in treasury management such as risk management, cash management, treasury operations and reporting, compliance, and more.
Enrollment Requirements
To be eligible for the CTP exam, you’ll need at least two years of full-time work experience in a corporate cash/treasury management or corporate finance-related role.
Best Fit For
Many individuals opt to pursue the CTP certification during their early to mid-career, after gaining some experience in treasury management or related fields.
Others may seek the CTP designation during a career transition, as they move from other finance-related roles into treasury management. This certification helps establish credibility in the field and signifies their dedication to a treasury-focused career path.
In some cases, employers may require or strongly encourage their employees to obtain the CTP certification, particularly for positions with significant treasury responsibilities.
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