US CMA vs MBA : 7 Differences and 3 Factors to Help You Decide

An MBA in Finance has bragging rights in India, not to mention access to some of the best career opportunities in India. Whereas, the US CMA course is globally recognised as one of the best accounting certifications. At last count, over 150 countries agreed. This is a tough decision to make. One that you can’t take lightly. This is why, you need a detailed analysis of the CMA vs MBA comparison. You’ll get all the information you need to make an informed choice.

Why should you do an MBA in finance?

It is a highly sought-after postgraduate degree for many finance students, especially with a top B-school. The degree equips you with advanced financial management skills, intensive industry knowledge and leadership abilities. You learn about the financial markets, strategic business planning, risk assessment and international finance. Many prestigious universities offer MBA programs but are extremely competitive. The IIMs, XLRI and SP Jain are some of the top colleges that are very difficult to get into. Tier-2 universities are also good but not as reputed as Tier-1 MBA graduates. They are the preferred choice for roles within investment banking, corporate finance, wealth management, or financial consultancy. They are also more likely to earn lucrative salaries and work in leadership positions.

Also Read:- 5 Jobs in Finance for MBA Freshers

Why should you take the CMA US course?

Students who complete the program have strong expertise in financial management, strategic planning, cost accounting and decision support. While the course originated in the USA, it has gained popularity in India due to the high quality of the syllabus. With the US CMA qualification, Indian students or working professionals can advance their careers, earn higher salaries and gain global exposure. They can also work with leading international corporations, global banks and financial firms that seek out US CMA professionals during recruitment. All you need is a year to do the course and you’ll add significant value to your resume.

Looking for Best US CMA Classes Near You?– Checkout our program!

US CMA vs MBA: Course focus

The best way to decide between CMA vs MBA US is to understand the course focus.

An MBA in finance deals with relevant topics covering finance, marketing, economics and management. You get to specialise in finance areas such as investment banking, corporate finance or risk management. You are also trained to work in managerial and leadership roles in various industries.

On the other hand, a CMA US certification is focused on management accounting. Students learn about global accounting standards, strategic planning, financial management, decision support and financial analysis. The course prepares students to work in multinational companies, as they have a deep knowledge of international accounting practices.

Also Read:-  Becoming a US CMA: The Complete Process & Preparation

US CMA vs MBA: Eligibility factors

Do you qualify for an MBA or CMA US? Let’s find out. Both certifications have specific eligibility requirements in India.

MBA finance:

1. A bachelor’s degree from a recognised college.
2. Some B-schools want students with a degree in commerce, economics or finance. Other schools allow any discipline.
3. The student should clear entrance exams, such as the CAT, GMAT, MAT, etc.
4. Some top B-schools give preference to candidates with work experience.
5. You also have to clear group discussions and interviews before you are granted admission.

The US CMA has specific eligibility requirements.

1. It is necessary to have a bachelor’s degree from an IMA-approved college.
2. Undergraduate students can take the exams but must submit their degrees within seven years to receive their US CMA certification.
3. Candidates with professional qualifications such as ACCA or CA can also apply.
4. You must become a member of the IMA before registering for the exams.
5. Students should complete their work experience requirement of two continuous years to be eligible for the certification. You can finish this before or after enrolling for the course.

 

Also Read:- US CMA Eligibility Explained

US CMA vs MBA: Syllabus

An MBA in finance course is full-time and lasts for two years. Here is what the syllabus looks like:

1st Year: Foundation course

1. Principles of Management
2. Business Economics
3. Accounting for Managers
4. Marketing Management
5. Organisational Behaviour
6. Quantitative Techniques
7. Operations Management
8. Business Communication
9. IT for Managers

2nd Year: Finance specialisation

Core subjects:

1. Financial Management
2. Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management
3. Corporate Finance
4. Financial Markets and Institutions
5. International Finance
6. Derivatives and Risk Management
7. Fixed Income Securities

Electives in Finance (Depends on the B-School):

1. Behavioural Finance
2. Fintech and Digital Banking
3. Wealth Management
4. Taxation and Tax Planning
5. Project Finance

 

The CMA US course has two Parts. Here is the breakup of subjects at each level.

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

1. External Financial Reporting Decisions
2. Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
3. Performance Management
4. Cost Management
5. Internal Controls
6. Technology and Analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

1. Financial Statement Analysis
2. Corporate Finance
3. Decision Analysis
4. Risk Management
5. Investment Decisions
6. Professional Ethics

 

Also Read:- Updated US CMA Syllabus

US CMA vs MBA: exam structure

MBA assessments are set by the individual universities, but there are certain features you can expect such as:

1. The exams will either be written on paper or computer-based.
2. The test has a mix of objective questions (MCQs, true or false, fill in the blanks, etc.) and descriptive questions that are essays.
3. You might have to analyse case studies and provide solutions to real problems.
4. In some cases, you will have to present and defend your dissertation before a panel of experts.
5. There could be an oral exam in certain subjects.

 

The US CMA exams are standardised for all students. Here are some features you can expect:

1. You will take two exams — one for Part 1 and the other for Part 2.
2. The exams will contain MCQs (3 hours) and an essay-style question (1 hour).
3. You can enrol for the exams on the IMA website.
4. Select the closest Prometric centre in India to take your test. Details are online.
5. Exam windows are in January/February, May/June, and September/October.

 

Also Read:- Understand The US CMA Exam Pattern

US CMA vs MBA: Career opportunities

Students often wonder — MBA or CMA which is better for my career? While both offer excellent opportunities to finance professionals, there are some factors to consider. In India, candidates from top-tier B-schools get the high-profile, high-paying jobs with the bigger companies. Their peers from lesser-known colleges don’t get the same salary offers. In contrast, the US CMA certification is widely regarded wherever you take your exams.

MBA finance job profiles:

An MBA in finance will make you a perfect fit in industries such as investment banking, product management, healthcare, consulting or entrepreneurship. You can apply to be a:

1. Product manager
2. Marketing manager
3. Business development manager
4. Management consultant
5. General manager
6. Finance manager
7. Financial analyst

Salary expectations:

Your income will depend on the calibre of your college, the company you work for, location and other factors. However here is a basic breakdown of average annual salaries for MBA professionals.

Entry-level salaries

Tier 1 B-Schools: Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs

Tier 2 B-Schools: Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs

Mid-level salaries:

Tier 1 B-Schools: Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 35 lakhs

Tier 2 B-Schools: Rs 12 lakhs to Rs 22 lakhs

Senior-level salaries:

Tier 1 B-Schools: Rs 40 lakhs to Rs 80+ lakhs

Tier 2 B-Schools: Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 50+ lakhs

US CMA job profiles:

A US CMA certification will open up opportunities in various industries such as financial services, technology, manufacturing and many more. You could work as a:

1. Management accountant
2. Financial analyst
3. Corporate finance professional
4. Controller
5. Budget analyst
6. Cost accountant
7. Internal auditor

Salary expectations:

Whether you choose to be an MBA or CMA US professional, your income depends on specific factors. Your company, city and negotiation skills will affect your salary figures. Unlike the MBA course, the CMA credential has the same value in every city or country. Here are the average annual salaries for US CMA professionals.

Entry-level salaries: Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs

Mid-level salaries: Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 20 lakhs

Senior-level salaries: Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40 lakhs

Also Read:- US CMA Salaries In India

US CMA vs MBA: key differences

US CMA	MBA IN FINANCE
The course is focused on advanced management accounting, financial management and strategic decision making.	The MBA program is focused on business knowledge, marketing, operations and finance.
The course duration is between 6 to 12 months, depending on your study schedule.	The MBA program is a two-year, full-time, postgraduate course.
You need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience to register for the US CMA.	You need a bachelor’s degree and high entrance exam scores to secure admission into an MBA college.
Cost management, financial planning, performance management, and risk analysis.	Covers various business domains such as marketing, strategy, operations, finance, and entrepreneurship.
The total cost of the course is between Rs 1.5 lakhs and Rs 2 lakhs (including coaching fees).	MBA colleges charge between Rs 5 lakhs to over Rs 25 lakhs.
The US CMA course is recognised in over 150 countries	Most MBA degrees are only recognised in India unless you study in top colleges like the IIMs.
You have to take two exams — one for Part 1 and the other for Part 2 of the syllabus.	MBA students have year-long assessments such as written test papers, reports and oral exams.

Benefits of having an MBA and US CMA qualification combo

US CMA or MBA which is better, which is better? Either choice will lead to a thriving career. However, if you have the time and commitment, here are a few reasons why both credentials will significantly impact your career.

1. Broader expertise

The MBA degree gives you a comprehensive education in business management and operations. The US CMA course trains you to be a competent management accountant with strategic decision-making. Together, they cover multiple skills that make you a powerhouse professional and attract recruiters from leading companies.

2. Better opportunities for advancement

The combination of the MBA and US CMA qualifications will make you a skilled leader who can manage financial as well as operational concerns. You’ll be a strong contender for top management roles such as COO, CEO and CFO.

3. Stronger salaries

MBAs command a higher salary in finance jobs than non-MBA candidates. The US CMA professional earns around 20 per cent more than non-CMA peers. When you have both certifications, your specialised abilities and industry knowledge will help you negotiate a premium salary.

Also Read:- Best Finance Courses After MBA Finance

About Proschool’s US CMA course

When you sign up for coaching from one of India’s top institutions, you get many benefits. Proschool has a strong faculty of experienced professionals who are also industry experts. Students learn through active learning methods, real case studies and hands-on training, as they master key concepts and relevant skills.

Proschool’s special features:

1. You can register for classroom sessions or online classes.
2. The entire module is only for 6 months.
3. Proschool offers additional resources such as full-length mock tests, practice papers, revision sessions and doubt-clearing classes.
4. You can also access a study bank of 4,000 MCQs and 90 essay questions for exam prep.
5. Proschool offers an exam pass commitment which means if you fail the exams, you can retake the course for free for a second attempt.
6. Students receive recruitment support through resume writing tips, mock interview sessions and an exclusive placement program.

Ace the US CMA Exam with Top Coaching – Pass with Confidence!

FAQs

Does it make sense to do a US CMA and MBA together?

Yes, it does. A US CMA and MBA combination on your resume can lead to exciting job prospects, quicker promotions and higher salaries.

Which exam is tougher – MBA or CMA US?

The MBA exams are more intense as several assessments are held throughout the year. The US CMA is a more specialised course that only has two exams.

Do I need coaching for the US CMA exams?

You can self-study for the US CMA exams. However, a coaching centre like Proschool will give you customised study plans, doubt-clearing sessions, multiple learning resources and many other benefits.

Which certification is best after an MBA?

You might consider a US CMA course. It is a world-class certification that can boost your career.

Conclusion

US CMA vs MBA. Which one are you going to choose? If you want to specialise in financial management or management accounting, pick US CMA. For a career in business development and financial operations, do an MBA. Having time, patience and determination allows you to do both.

Find out more about Proschool’s US CMA course here.