After MCom Which Course is Best? Best Courses After MCom for a High-Paying Career!

A master’s in commerce is very commendable. It shows you have expertise and knowledge of finance, accounting, taxation and management. You are in a strong position to proceed with your next career move. On one hand, you could opt for an entry-level job in the industry. However, the job market is extremely competitive. Multiple qualified candidates are applying for the same position as you. You need an edge—something to make your resume stand out. With the rapid rise of MNCs and international firms in India, recruiters are looking for candidates fluent in the global business language. Additional qualifications like a CPA, ACCA, CFA or business analytics can significantly raise your CV profile — from the middle of the pile to the top of the shortlist. So, after M.com which course is best for you?

There are quite a few certifications that can enhance your career, offer global opportunities and increase your earning potential. You can pick a program in accounting, financial services, management, and IT. As a master in commerce, you stand at a crossroads. Should you take your chances in a crowded job market? Or consider choosing from among the best courses after M.com? The answer is a no-brainer, right?

The best courses after M.com

Before taking the next step, figure out your career goals. Do you want to be an accountant with a leading multinational corporation? Or does a management role suit you better? Is analytics something that could appeal to you?

After an M.com degree, which course is best for you? Your choices are listed below.

Which Course is Best After M.Com? Top Accounting Options

1. Certified Public Accountant (US CPA)

Many experts believe the CPA program is the correct answer to, “Which course is best after M.com?” This is especially true for accounting aspirants. If you are hoping for a global accounting career, the CPA is the perfect route to make it happen.

Course details:

• The syllabus has three mandatory core sections:

• Auditing & Attestation (AUD)
• Financial Accounting & Reporting (FAR)
• Regulation (REG)

And three elective discipline sections (choose any one):

• Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
• Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
• Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)

• You have to take a four-hour exam for each section.
• You must clear all four exams within 18 to 24 months of passing your first paper (exact duration depends on the chosen state).
• The CPA evaluation process is complicated, with many Indian students not meeting the required eligibility. M.com graduates have the advantage of easily meeting the credit requirement to qualify for the course.
• You also need a valid passport to take the course.

Benefits of the CPA program:

• The CPA certification is recognised in multiple countries worldwide, including the US, Canada, Australia, the UK, the Middle East, India and Singapore.
• You can work in areas such as auditing, taxation, financial planning, and consulting.
• It is a shorter course compared to the CA.
• You need a valid passport to qualify for the course.
• Your chances of getting hired by top companies such as Deloitte, PwC, EY, Goldman Sachs and KPMG are higher.
• Job profiles include Financial Analyst, Internal Auditor, Tax Consultant and Corporate Controller.

2. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

The ACCA certification is another globally recognised certification that can kickstart your career in accounting, finance, internal auditing and taxation. That’s why it is one of the best courses after M.Com.

Course details:

• The syllabus has three levels:
  • Applied Knowledge Level (3 exams)
  • Applied Skills Level (6 exams)
  • Strategic Professional Level (4 exams)

• The exam windows are open in March, June, September and December.
• You have unlimited attempts to clear failed papers within ten years of taking the first exam.
• M.com graduates can receive up to five exam exemptions, which means they only have to take eight papers.

Benefits of the ACCA program:

• The ACCA program is recognised in over 180 countries, including the UK, Australia, Switzerland, Canada, Germany, Hong Kong and India.
• The exam schedule is flexible. On-demand exams can be taken at your convenience, while the other exams are conducted four times a year.
• There is a high demand for ACCA professionals in the Big 4 firms and MNCs.
• Job profiles include Financial Analyst, Management Accountant, Internal Auditor, Tax Consultant and Forensic Accountant.

3. Certified Management Accountant (US CMA)

One of the best courses after M.com, the US CMA certification is perfect for those who want to build expertise in financial analysis, cost management and strategic decision-making.

Course details:

• The syllabus has two parts:
  • Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics
  • Part 2 – Strategic Financial Management
• You have to take two four-hour exams, one for each part.
• The exam windows are opened in two-month installments, in January-February, May-June and September-October. Students can register with the Prometric website to select their time slots.
• You also need a valid passport to take the course.

Benefits of the US CMA program:

• It is one of the fastest accounting certifications and can be completed in under a year.
• You only have to take two exams, and you can take them in any order.
• The certification is acknowledged in over 150 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, Germany, UAE, Australia and India.
• You need a valid passport to qualify for the course.
• Professionals earn up to 60 per cent higher than their non-certified counterparts.
• This certification is preferred by top companies such as the Big 4, Amazon, JP Morgan, Google, and many others.
• Job profiles include Financial Analyst, Cost Accountant, Internal Auditor, Corporate Finance Manager and Financial Controller.

4. Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

Pursuing the CIMA certification can help you land impressive job profiles in finance and management accounting. It is one of the best courses after M.com, leading to tremendous career growth.

Course details:

• The syllabus has four modules:
  • Certificate Level (4 exams)
  • Operational Level (4 exams)
  • Management Level (4 exams)
  • Strategic Level (4 exams)
• There are 16 exams, but M.Com graduates can receive up to 11 exemptions. B.Com graduates receive 4 exemptions, while CMA and CA professionals can get up to 15.
• The exam window is open in February, May, August and November.

Benefits of the CIMA program:

• The certification is recognised in 180+ countries, including the UK, UAE, Australia, Canada and India.
• Your certification makes you ideal for leadership roles as your training is focused on business strategy and management.
• Globally, CIMA professionals have been hired by leading corporations such as the Big 4, Barclays HSBC, Amazon, Tesla, Nestlé and Unilever.
• Job profiles include Management Accountant, Business Analyst, Risk manager and Financial Controller.
• CIMA professionals can earn up to 63 per cent higher than non-CIMA peers.

5. Diploma in International Financial Reporting (DipIFR)

After M.com, what is the best course for international accounting standards? The DipIFR by ACCA is an exceptional program that enables professionals and M.com graduates to elevate their expertise in global accounting.

Course details

• The syllabus has the following topics:
  • International Financial Reporting Standards
  • Conceptual Framework
  • Financial Statements
  • Consolidated Financial Statements
  • Disclosure Requirements
• You only have to take one 3-hour and 15-minute exam.
• Exam windows are open in June and December.
• M.com graduates must have two years of work experience to qualify for this course.

Benefits of the DipIFR program:

• There is only one exam, and you can complete your certification within 6 months.
• The certification is recognised in over 130 countries, including the UK, Germany, UAE, Singapore, Australia and India.
• The program is recognised by companies such as the Big 4, MNCs and global banks within India and abroad.
• You can work in exciting roles such as Financial Reporting Analyst, IFRS Consultant, Accounting Advisory Specialist and Financial Controller.

The Best Courses After M.Com In Accounting: A comparison

COURSE	US CPA	ACCA	US CMA	CIMA	IFRS
DURATION	15 to 24 months	2 to 3 years	6 months for working professionals. A year for full-time students.	2 to 3 years	6 months
POTENTIAL STARTING SALARIES (YEARLY)	Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs	Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 7 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs	Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
RETURN OF INVESTMENT	High (Due to huge global demand especially by the Big 4)	High (There is a demand by top companies)	High (Preferred hire by MNCs in FP&A roles)	High (Valued by top companies in finance and strategic roles)	Moderate (Enhances your expertise in finance and accounting roles)

Which course is best after M.com? Financial Services

1. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA program is highly regarded and offers training in investment management, equity research, portfolio management and financial analysis. It is one of the best courses after M.com, especially for those who want to work in investment services.

Course details

• The syllabus has three parts:
  • Level I: Introduction to financial concepts and investment tools
  • Level II: Application of financial concepts in asset valuation
  • Level III: Portfolio management and wealth planning
• After each level, you have to take an exam that is 4.5 hours long.
• The exam windows are as follows:
  • Level I: February, May, August, November
  • Level II: May, August, November
  • Level III: February, August
• You also need a valid passport to take the course.

Benefits of the CFA program:

• The certification is recognised in over 180 countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, France, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and India.
• Companies that hire CFA professionals include JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, RBI and the Big 4.
• The CFA course is more affordable and less time-consuming than an MBA in Finance while offering comparable value in the job market.
• CFA holders can earn more than 30 to 50 per cent more than non-certified professionals.
• You can apply for positions such as Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Equity Analyst, Risk Manager, and Financial Advisor.

2. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Which course is best after M.com for personal financial planning? The CFP program is acclaimed as one of the world’s top certifications for financial planning, wealth management, retirement and insurance planning.

Course details

• The syllabus has four levels:
  • Investment Planning Specialist
  • Retirement and Tax Planning
  • Risk and Estate Planning
  • Integrated Financial Planning (Final exam)
• There is an exam after each level that lasts for three or four hours.
• The specialist exams are held every month, but the final integrated financial planning exam is conducted in the third week of every alternate month.

Benefits of the CFP program:

• The CFP course is recognised in over 27 countries, including the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and India.
• There is a high demand for CFP professionals in international and national banks, investment firms, insurance companies and global financial firms.
• CFP professionals earn higher salaries than non-certified counterparts.
• The CFP designation can make you eligible to work as a Financial Planner, Wealth Manager, Retirement Planner, Investment Advisor and Tax Consultant.

3. Investment Banking Operations (IBO)

One of the best career options after M.com is working in the investment services industry. The program trains students to work in middle and back-office roles in investment banking.

Course details

• The syllabus has several modules, such as:
  • Investment Principles and Tools
  • Asset Classes
  • Advanced Derivatives
  • Introduction to Investment Banking Operations
  • Clearing, Settlement & Risk Management
• There is one final exam at the end of the course, along with the option to take the coveted NISM series 7, 8 and 12.
• The exams are conducted throughout the year on an on-demand basis.

Benefits of the IBO program:

• The curriculum has in-depth industry knowledge with hands-on training in relevant concepts.
• It is a short-term course, so you can start working within a few months.
• The NISM certifications enhance the professional’s credibility and career opportunities.
• IBO professionals are hired for middle and back-office roles in companies such as J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, CitiBank, Deutsche Bank, HSBC and Credit Suisse.

4. Financial Modelling

As an essential skill for most financial and accounting professionals, financial modelling is key to getting hired in a competitive market. It is one of the best courses after M.com, as it has practical applications across several job profiles and industries.

Course details

• The syllabus has several modules, such as:
  • Excel for Finance
  • Financial Statements Analysis
  • Forecasting & Valuations
  • M&A & Private Equity
• There is one 2-hour final exam and a live project or case study at the end of the course.

Benefits of the Financial Modelling program:

• There is a high demand for financial modelling professionals in multiple sectors, such as banks, startups, consulting firms and multinational corporations.
• The certification can increase your odds of getting recruited by companies like JP Morgan, Deloitte, PwC, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley,
• It offers an edge to professionals with specific qualifications such as CFA or US CMA.

5. Financial Risk Manager

The FRM is one of the best courses after M.com for professionals who want to work in risk management.

Course details

• The syllabus has two sections:
  • FRM Part 1 – Foundations of Risk Management
  • FRM Part 2 – Advanced Risk Management
• There is one exam for each part, and you can take them together or separately.
• The exam windows are as follows:
  • FRM Part 1 exam is held in May, August and November.
  • FRM Part 2 exam is held in May and November.

Benefits of the Financial Modelling program:

• The course is recognised in over 50 countries.
• There is a demand for financial modelling professionals in banks, hedge funds, insurance and consulting firms.
• You can work as a Risk Manager, Market Risk Analyst, Credit Risk Analyst and Treasury Risk Manager.
• Companies that require risk managers include Deloitte, Axis Bank, Citibank, HSBC and Tata AIG.

6. NSE Certified Courses

The National Stock Exchange has several certified courses such as NSE Certified Capital Market Professional, NSE Certified Derivatives Trader, NSE Certified Risk Management Professional and NSE Academy Certified Algorithmic Trading. These are all some of the best courses after M.com for those interested in working in the stock market.

Course details

• Most NSE-certified courses have one exam that is 1.5 to 2 hours long.
• The exams are conducted online throughout the year.

Benefits of the NSE-certified programs:

• These certifications are recognised by banking, trading and financial institutions.
• The duration is between one to six months, so you don’t consume too much time.
• Job profiles include Stock Market Analyst, Equity Trader, Investment Advisor, Risk Analyst and Algorithmic Trader.

The Best Courses After M.Com In Financial Services: A Comparison

COURSE	CFA	CFP	IBO	FM	FRM	NSE courses
DURATION	2 to 3 years	6 months to 15 months	3 to 6 months	3 to 6 months	1 to 2 years	1 to 6 months
POTENTIAL STARTING SALARIES (YEARLY)	Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs	Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 7 lakhs	Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs
RETURN OF INVESTMENT	High (Huge demand in investment banking services)	Moderate (Strong prospects in wealth management and portfolio planning)	High (Short-term course leads to great opportunities in investment banking operations)	High (Crucial skill for various finance roles)	High (Risk managers are essential in many sectors)	Moderate (Mostly for specialised roles)

Which course is best after M.com? Management Certifications

1. Master in Business Administration (MBA)

The MBA is one of the best courses after M.com if you want to work in management or specialised finance roles.

Course details

• The syllabus is divided into two years:
  • Year 1: Core MBA Subjects
  • Year 2: Specialisation Subjects
• You must take written exams at the end of every semester, along with periodic assessments, case study analysis and other projects.

Benefits of the MBA program

• An MBA degree can be the key to opening doors in management positions across various sectors, such as finance, banking and consulting.
• Tier-1 B-schools lead to better and more lucrative career opportunities than other universities.
• MBAs earn higher salaries than M.com graduates, but the exact figures will depend on the quality of the Business school.
• Job profiles include Investment Banker, Risk Manager, Marketing Manager, HR Manager, Business Development Manager and Wealth Manager.
• You also develop entrepreneurial skills to launch a business or work in a startup.
• Individuals who are unable to pursue a full-time MBA, can opt for a part-time, executive or accelerated program.

2. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Which is the best course after M.Com for a career in project management? The answer is the PMP certification. The course is ideal for individuals who want to learn how to manage projects across different industries.

Course details

• The syllabus has three domains:
  • People
  • Process
  • Business Environment
• You only have to take one exam that lasts for 3.5 hours.
• The exam window is open year-round and can be taken on demand.

Benefits of the PMP program

• The PMP certification is recognised in over 200 countries.
• PMP professionals earn 25 per cent more than their non-certified peers.
• Job profiles include Project Manager, Technical Project Manager, Program Manager and Construction Project Manager.
• You can work for companies such as PwC, Google, Amazon, IBM and Microsoft.

3. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

If you want to work in the IT industry in a managerial position, one of the best career options after M.com is to become a CSM professional. You play a role in managing complex projects using an agile framework called Scrum.

Course details

• The syllabus has the following modules:
  • Scrum roles
  • Scrum events
  • Scrum artefacts
• You only have to take one exam that is an hour long.

Benefits of the CSM program:

• It is a short course that requires two days of training before you earn your certification.
• You can work with companies like Amazon, Google, Infosys, Accenture, IBM, and Deloitte as a CSM professional.

Job profiles include Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Product Owner and Project Manager.

4. Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)

If you are interested in business management, the PGDM is one of the best career options after M.com. The course is the equivalent of an MBA degree.

Course details

• The syllabus is divided into two years:
  • First Year: core subjects
  • Second Year: Specialisations and electives
• You have to take 4 to 6 exams per semester, and there are four semesters.

Benefits of the PGDM program

• PGDM graduates can work with banks, MNCs, consulting firms and startups.
• You can earn attractive salary packages by specialising in finance, marketing, business analytics and HR.

The Best Courses After M.Com In Management: A comparison

COURSE	MBA	PMP	CSM	PGDM
DURATION	2 years (full-time degree)	3 to 6 months	2-day certification course	2 years
POTENTIAL STARTING SALARIES (YEARLY)	Tier 1: Rs 15 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs Tier 2: Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhs	Rs 8 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs	Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs	Rs 7 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs
RETURN OF INVESTMENT	High (Especially if you are from a tier 1 college)	High (Big demand for project managers)	Moderate (Can give career boost in IT jobs)	Moderate to High (Better ROI if the course is done from tier 1 b-schools)

Which course is best after M.com? Data Analytics & Technology Courses

1. Business Analytics Certification

If you want to help companies make sound business decisions based on data analytics, then Business Analytics is one of the best courses after M.com. It is widely used across various fields, including finance, marketing, operations and consulting.

Course details

• The syllabus covers the following topics:
  • Data Analysis using Excel
  • Data science programming
  • Data visualisation and business intelligence
  • Application of statistical techniques
  • Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics
• There is one online exam and project assessment.

Benefits of the Business Analytics Program

1. There is an increasing demand for professionals in industries, like finance, healthcare, retail and IT.
2. Business analysts have strong technical skills to interpret data and forecast trends, helping businesses make complex decisions.
3. Job profiles include Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Financial Analyst and Marketing Analyst.
4. Professionals can work with renowned companies such as Amazon, Google, Oracle, SAP, HDFC, JP Morgan and the Big 4.

2. Certified FinTech Professional

The Certified FP certification is perfect for professionals hoping to build expertise in financial technology, blockchain, AI in finance and digital banking. It is one of the best career options after M.com if you want to pursue a job in the digital finance space.

Course details

• The syllabus contains the following sections:
  • FinTech fundamentals
  • Blockchain & cryptocurrencies
  • AI & machine learning in finance
  • Digital banking & payments
• You only have to take one exam at the end of the course.

Benefits of the Certified FP program

• FinTech is rapidly gaining popularity in the business realm, and many well-paying jobs are available.
• The certification has credibility among many national and international companies.
• You can work for digital payment companies, banks, startups and consulting firms.

3. Certified Digital Finance Practitioner (CDFP)

The CDFP course is designed for professionals seeking to specialise in digital finance, financial technology, and digital banking.

Course details

• The syllabus contains the following topics:
  • Digital finance fundamentals
  • Financial technology applications
  • Digital payments & wallets
  • Blockchain & cryptocurrencies
  • AI & Big Data in Finance
• There is only one exam at the end of the program.

Benefits of the CDFP program

• It is a globally recognised certification for digital finance professionals.
• The course enables professionals to work in leadership roles in digital banking and financial innovation.
• Certified individuals can apply to banks, FinTech firms, regulatory bodies and financial institutions worldwide.

4. Digital Marketing Certification

A Digital Marketing course can be a great career option after M.Com for professionals who want to work in online business, brand promotion, and data-driven marketing strategies.

Course details

• There are different DM courses in India, but most of them cover topics like:
  • SEO & SMM
  • Google Ads and PPC Advertising
  • Email Marketing
  • Web Analytics
  • Content Marketing

Benefits of the Digital Marketing Program

• There is a high demand for DM professionals in every business, from startups to MNCs.
• You can work in several industries, such as IT, banking, retail, e-commerce, healthcare and education.
• Job profiles include Digital Marketing Executive, SEO Analyst, Social Media Manager, PPC & Google Ads Specialist and Digital Marketing Manager.

The Best Courses After M.Com In Data Analytics & IT: A comparison

COURSE	Business Analytics	Certified FP	CDFP	Digital Marketing
DURATION	3 to 12 months	6 to 12 months	6 to 9 months	3 to 6 months
POTENTIAL STARTING SALARIES (YEARLY)	Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs	Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs	Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 12 lakhs	Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs
RETURN OF INVESTMENT	High (Jobs are available in almost all industries)	High (Fintech and banking industry is growing)	High (Digital finance is huge right now)	High (Low course fees and big demand for DM professionals)

Proschool’s best courses after M.com

Which is the best course after M.com? Find out at Proschool. At one of India’s top coaching institutions, you can pick from an array of professional qualifications that will enhance your expertise and give you relevant industry skills in the field of your choice.

Proschool offers many outstanding and globally recognised certifications. These programs are a perfect fit for M.Com graduates looking to make their mark in the finance and accounting industry. Students are taught by industry experts who apply a practical approach to education. They use active learning methods and innovative training techniques that blend theory with real-world case studies. That’s not all. There are more advantages to registering with Proschool.

• One of the few top institutes that offers online and offline classes
• You can enrol in courses such as CFA, ACCA, US CMA, CFP, US CPA, Financial Modelling, IBO and Business Analytics.
• Students receive high-quality learning resources, including full-length mock tests, practice papers, recorded videos and board-approved study material.
• Proschool offers placement assistance to all certified students in relevant industry positions.
• You also receive career support and guidance such as practice interviews, soft skills development and resume building.

Conclusion

Do you want a high-paying career in finance, accounting and management? Then consider pursuing a professional certification after completing your master’s. Courses such as CFA, CPA, CMA, ACCA, FRM, and Business Analytics provide global opportunities and can lead to leadership roles. So which course to choose after M.com? It depends on your career goals, skills and aptitude. Any programs listed above can help heighten your career growth and increase your earning potential.

FAQs

Which finance and accounting certifications can lead to a high-paying job?

Many such courses can lead to a lucrative and rewarding career. If you are interested in finance and accounting, your options are:

• CFA
• US CMA
• US CPA
• ACCA
• FRM

Can I do CFA or CPA after M.Com?

Yes, absolutely! As an M.Com graduate, you are eligible for both courses. If you are interested in investment banking, risk management, or corporate finance, then CFA is a great choice. If you want a career in accounting, taxation, or auditing, US CPA is the better option.

Are there online coaching courses for the best courses after M.com?

Yes, there are many online coaching classes, but ensure you sign up with a reputed institution known for its high standards of education. All online courses are not equal, so do your research before you enrol.

Which certifications after M.com will help me work in leadership positions?

If you want to work in management or strategic roles, you should consider any of the following courses:

• MBA
• CFA
• US CMA
• US CPA
• PMP

Which jobs are best for M.com graduates in finance and accounting?

An M.com graduate can apply for many jobs in the finance and accounting industry. Courses such as the CFA, US CMA, CFP or ACCA will elevate your chances of getting hired by top companies. Here are a few job profiles that will suit your resume:

• Financial Analyst
• Cost Accountant
• Investment Banker
• Financial Planner
• Risk Analyst
• Tax Consultant
• Internal Auditor

What comes next after getting an M.com degree?

In today’s competitive job market, it makes sense to get an additional professional certification. It can upgrade your resume and make you a strong candidate during the recruitment process.