Orientation on CMA, USA and ACCA: Department of Commerce and Business Administration

September 25, 2025

The Department of Commerce and Business Administration organized a session on CMA, USA and ACCA orientation for students to provide knowledge about the global careers in accounting and finance. The objective of the session was to provide clarity about the structure, benefits, career opportunities, and professional pathways offered by both qualifications.

Objectives of the session:

  • To create awareness about internationally recognized accounting certifications.
  • To help students compare CMA (US) and ACCA based on career prospects, exam structure, cost, and global relevance.
  • To guide students in selecting a suitable professional course aligned with their career interests and academic strengths.

A. Overview of CMA (US)

The resource person explained that CMA (US), offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA, focuses on management accounting, cost control, internal decision-making, and strategic planning.

Key points covered:

  • Duration: 6–18 months (flexible based on preparation)
  • Structure: 2 parts
  • Skills Covered: strategic planning, financial reporting, risk management, and performance evaluation
  • Global Recognition: Highly valued in corporates, finance departments, consulting firms, and multinational companies
  • Career Roles: Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Cost Controller, Internal Auditor

B. Overview of ACCA

The speaker also introduced ACCA, a UK-based globally recognized qualification that emphasizes financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and international reporting standards.

Key points covered:

  • Duration: 2–3 years
  • Structure: 13 papers (with possible exemptions based on academic background)
  • Skills Covered: IFRS, taxation, financial reporting, audit, and professional ethics
  • Global Opportunities: Particularly strong acceptance in Europe, Middle East, and Commonwealth nations
  • Career Roles: Auditor, Tax Consultant, Finance Manager, Chartered Certified Accountant, Statutory Accountant

Outcome of the session:

  • Enhanced student awareness of global accounting qualifications.
  • Helped students differentiate between management and financial accounting career pathways.
  • Motivated participants to plan early and align the qualification with their academic journey.

Date of Activity: 25-09-2025

Place of activity conducted: Auditorium

Organizing Unit: Department of Commerce and Business Administration in association with IQAC

Number of Students Participated: 138

Resource Person: Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Director, LeAF Academy.,Contact Number: 8970520767