Do you want to pursue a career in finance and related fields? But confused about which course to pursue? Instead of choosing the same old common fields, you can choose from a variety of specialized career fields in finance. When finance comes to mind people think of CFA. But do you want to explore other courses as well? Looking for an answer on CFA vs other course(s) such as CFA vs CA, CFA vs CPA, etc.?
Did You Know?
CFA is a professional degree which is offered by the CFA Institute, the USA
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What all is covered in this post?
To make it easier for you, we have created a quick guide to everything you need to know about the CFA vs other course(s).
What is CFA?
The full form of CFA has Chartered Financial Analyst. Offered by the CFA Institute, this course focuses on several aspects of finance and management along with the integration of core knowledge of the investment discipline. It works to improve your analytical skills and gives you an understanding of how you can navigate ethical issues in the investment industry.
This program is very useful for those who aspire to a career in banking or financial services. The course syllabus includes equity investment, corporate finance, derivatives, financial reporting, analysis, etc. It prepares applicants for ethical investment management. The course includes different phrases and a duration of 1.5 – 4 years.
Without further ado! Let’s come to the point…
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CFA vs CA
Chartered Accountants and Chartered Financial Analysts are two of the most demanding career options in the corporate world. Although both of them are more or less the same, there are some useful differences between them, so it is difficult for an applicant to make a choice between the two professions.
Let’s briefly discuss the nature of both of these professions for determining which one is best for an aspiring accounting professional.
| Components | CFA | CA |
| Governing body | Chartered Financial Analyst Institute | ICAI – Institute of Chartered Accountants in India |
| Focus subjects | Accounting Corporate Finance Equity investments Ethics Fixed Income Portfolio Management | Audit and attestation regulations Business environment and its concepts Financial accounting and reporting |
| Job roles | Equity Research Investment banking Portfolio management | Government accounting Internal auditing Management accounting Public accounting |
| Remuneration | Up to Rs. 4 lakhs (however, it increases gradually with experience) | Rs. 6-7 Lakhs (however, it increases gradually with experience) |
CFA vs CPA
The CFA program is demanding, and the CFA designation is a testament to the knowledge, skills, and determination invested throughout the three exams, professional requirements, guidelines, and more. Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) are also financial professionals. ​​​​​​While many CFP professionals pursue careers that involve working directly with individual clients in financial planning services, CFA charter holders pursue careers as investment professionals, including private wealth management and financial counseling.
FRM vs CFA
The FRM (Financial Risk Manager) is highly specialized and has a stronger emphasis on risk management, while the CFA designation covers a broader range of financial analysis and investment topics.
While the CFA designation opens employment prospects in research analysis, investment banking, and portfolio management, the FRM, on the other hand, will open up opportunities in banking, treasury, and risk management.
In terms of career building, both FRM and CFA are on equal footing as both are globally recognized designations with wide employment opportunities in their respective fields of expertise. Many finance professionals gain both qualifications to better fulfill their roles and careers.
CFA vs MBA
The CFA program and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program offer advantages that will help you advance in your career. While the programs share some similarities, key differences make the CFA program particularly well suited for an investment career. Traditionally, MBA programs have been a traditional business management pathway, and a typical program offers a broad business curriculum that includes finance and investment aspects.
The curriculum of the CFA program, however, specifically focuses on investment analysis and portfolio management and provides an in-depth knowledge of investment principles and ethics. While the best MBA programs have extensive networks, the CFA program connects candidates with a global professional network of elite investment professionals. Industry recognition also varies.
CMA vs CFA
| Components | CFA | CMA |
| Full Form | Chartered Financial Analyst Institute | Certified Management Accountants |
| Focus subjects | Accounting Corporate Finance Equity investments Ethics Fixed Income Portfolio Management | Working-capital policy Financial statement analysis Valuation issues |
| Job roles | Equity Research Investment banking Portfolio management | Chief financial officer Corporate controller Financial Controller |
| Remuneration | Up to Rs. 4 lakhs (however, it increases gradually with experience) | Rs. 5-7 Lakhs (however, it increases gradually with experience) |
CFA vs ACCA – which is harder?
Both CFA and ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) are well-known certification courses in the financial sector. But CFA is much more difficult than ACCA. It has been observed that only 10% of candidates who enroll in the CFA course successfully complete it.
Also, you only get 4 years to complete the course compared to the 10 years allotted to complete the ACCA course. Even the prescribed CFA syllabus is longer than ACCA.
ACCA-certified professionals are recognized worldwide and employment opportunities are expanding to a high level. You can take up a prestigious position as an accountant, internal auditor, financial manager, financial consultant, and tax manager.
The difference between the two lies in the career prospects that both certifications have. The CFA is designed for professionals who want to develop specialized skills in equity research and financial analysis. ACCA certification, on the other hand, is a well-known entry-level course suitable for careers in finance, auditing, and accounting. ACCA opens you up to a wider career horizon with ample opportunities.
CFP vs CFA – which is better?
The CFA program is demanding, and the CFA designation is a testament to the knowledge, skills, and determination invested throughout the three exams, professional requirements, guidelines, and more. Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) are also financial professionals. While many CFPs pursue careers that involve working directly with individual clients to provide financial planning services, CFA holders pursue careers as investment professionals, including private wealth management and the role of a financial advisor.
Final words
Hope we were able to answer queries to all your questions! If not, connect with industry experts.
At iDreamCareer with the help of our Career Counselling and Guidance Services and educational counsellors, we try to help many young confused minds from 9th class, 10th class, class 11, and class 12 with an aim to select their suitable career choices.
Also Read:
- CFA institute – official website
- Online MBA
- Morgan Stanley bankers talk about the industry – What are graduate recruiters looking for?
- CMA Courses
- Chartered Accountant
- Cost & Management Accountant
- Insurance Professional
- Banker
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Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
Very interesting, Wish to see much more like this. Thanks for sharing your information!