AICPA & CIMA

Who are CIMA?

CIMA, or the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, is the largest body of management accountants worldwide. For over 100 years, CIMA has been helping people learn how to run businesses and make smart decisions that lead to success. CIMA members work in all kinds of jobs around the world, helping companies reach their goals.

Think of it this way: if you have CIMA’s CGMA qualification, you could help a business figure out how to spend its money wisely, save costs, or even decide when to launch new products. You’ll be the go-to person for making big decisions!

CIMA is not a traditional accounting qualification, it’s the most relevant qualification for a career in business. It opens doors to top roles across industries worldwide. It’s recognized globally, meaning you can work in any sector, from tech and healthcare to manufacturing and retail.

What is Management Accounting?

Management accounting is all about helping businesses make smart decisions using their financial data. Unlike financial accounting, which looks at the past, management accounting focuses on the future. It helps with things like planning, budgeting, and deciding where a business should invest its money. Imagine you're managing a company and need to decide whether to launch a new product. Management accounting gives you the data to weigh the risks and rewards, so you can make an informed decision that helps your business grow.

Who Can Qualify with CIMA?

CIMA is open to all, regardless of your educational background. You can start the qualification via an apprenticeship immediately after school, or go to university and start your CIMA journey through a graduate programme. CIMA work with employers across all industries and sectors, with opportunities to work and be sponsored to study.  

How is CIMA different to a degree?

A degree gives you broad academic knowledge, while CIMA’s CGMA qualification focuses on practical skills that prepare you for real-world business challenges. For example, while a degree might teach you the theory behind financial management, CIMA trains you to actually apply that knowledge in the workplace, helping you make strategic decisions that drive business success. It’s the perfect pathway if you want to lead in the finance world, rather than just manage. Through a CIMA apprenticeship you can achieve a globally recognised qualification whilst earning and not racking up a huge debt.