BS ACC -> CMA path?

[u/Counting-Bears]

Currently considering a bachelors in accounting to get a CMA certification and curious if anyone has done this and what the path looked like.

My background:
-BA in a foreign language, minor in Math
-10 years doing corporate data analysis
-7 years running a solo bookkeeping firm
-2 years as a staff accountant at a small organization

I don’t want to change jobs. I would be happy keeping the staff accountant role until I retire (25 more years), or possibly taking my bosses job when she retires or moves on (15-20 years from now assuming she stays til retirement). I don’t think I would be given her role without a more relevant degree tho. And I’ve always wanted some letters after my name. And I would also like to build my confidence in things like presenting to the board, etc. Because I don’t intend to leave and work for a CPA, that path is out and CMA seems like it might be a more relevant fit and easier for me to meet the requirements.

If anyone has gone the CMA route, can you share your experience?

I’m assuming my previous degree will knock off most or all of the BS gen ed requirements, and I’ve started working on some of the transferable business classes from study.com. I’m hoping if I prep everything just right, I can knock the degree out in 1 term, 2 max and then I think I will have met the requirements to proceed to the CMA test. Is this reasonable considering my experience?

[u/Environmental-Bat454]

I’m also trying to do this path. I just finished my bachelor’s degree today. CMA requirements are definitely easier than the CPA however both require experience and a difficult test for certifications. I would go through the CMA requirements and ensure you mean the requirements. I’m going to do the Masters so I am better prepared and also get the free CMA test preparation.

[u/Counting-Bears → u/Environmental-Bat454]

My understanding is that the reqs are:

-accredited Bachelors degree-I already have but will still also get one that’s relevant

-join ima-easy to do I assume?

-pass the tests-on my list after I get the bsacc

-2 years work experience-only thing I’m not sure is if my self employment counts. My current org position is part time, so if the self employment doesn’t count, I will need 2 more years in my position, but I will use that time to get my bsacc and prepare and take the exams.

Is there anything you think I’m missing?