To undertake the CMA accreditation process, you must first successfully complete a university program by taking one of the following two access routes:
1st Path – Bachelor's degree in accountancy
Complete one of the thirteen undergraduate degrees in accountancy, or the equivalent, that lead directly to the CMA accreditation process. Students who decide to take one of these degree programs must be sure to follow the CMA path. They may obtain information from the university representative of the CMA Order.
2nd Path – Equivalence of degrees or training
Those who have a degree granted by a university-level educational institution in Quebec or elsewhere in Canada may benefit from equivalence of degree if, upon conclusion of university level studies, they have obtained a minimum of 90 credits in the fields specified by the Order. For certain subjects and under certain conditions, relevant work experience may also be considered. Likewise, persons who have been educated outside Canada may benefit from total or partial equivalence of training.
To obtain equivalence of degree or training, applicants must first conduct a free self-evaluation of their prior learning which will provide a view of what elements needed to undertake the CMA accreditation process are missing. The data can be used to submit a request for a detailed evaluation, after paying the appropriate fee.
During the university program candidates for the CMA designation can acquire the solid knowledge of management accounting, financial accounting, financial management and taxation that are indispensable for the pursuit of their career.
Courses appropriate for the CMA path are offered at all Quebec universities and the University of Ottawa, normally as part of bachelor of accounting science or administration degree programs, in close collaboration with the Order.
Throughout their studies, candidates who wish to do so may obtain information and guidance from the Order and the university representatives of the Order, who can be found at most universities. They may also obtain support from the CMA student committees.
As soon as candidates register with the Order, they have access to the hundreds of jobs employers post on the Order's Web site every year. Twice-weekly e-mails link them to the very latest job offerings in every region of Quebec for every level of experience.