Top 10 Courses to do After CA to Boost Your Career [2024 Update]

If you have already cleared this challenging exam, then congratulations on completing your Chartered Accountancy! As a newly qualified CA, you might be considering further education and career opportunities. Even if you haven’t completed CA and are contemplating options after this degree, then you’re at the right place.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore various courses and professional paths available for CAs looking to expand their knowledge and skills. Let us help you make informed decisions about your professional future-

Why to Pursue Additional Courses After CA?

1. Enhancing your expertise: Pursuing additional courses can deepen your knowledge in specific areas (like Core Finance), helping you stay ahead in your field and become an expert in your chosen specialization.
2. Diversifying your skill set: Acquiring new skills can broaden your professional horizons, opening doors to new industries and job roles.
3. Expanding your career prospects: Further education can lead to better job prospects, higher salaries, and leadership roles, giving you an edge in the competitive job market.

Popular Courses & Qualifications After CA

Here are some popular courses that people usually consider after completing your CA, along with their costing, job opportunities and expected salaries-

CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)

• Why do CAs pursue CFA: CAs pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) course to gain specialized knowledge in finance, investment management, and portfolio management. It complements the skills acquired through the CA program and enhances their career prospects in the financial industry.
• Cost: The cost of the CFA program varies based on the exam registration type and fees, typically ranging between $2,500 to $4,500, excluding study materials and any additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the CFA program, CAs can work as financial analysts, investment bankers, portfolio managers, and research analysts in various financial institutions, including banks, investment firms, and hedge funds.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA + CFA charter holders can expect salaries ranging from INR 20-25 Lakh per year.

Also Read: CFA Vs MBA: Which one to choose?

FRM (Financial Risk Manager)

• Why do CAs pursue FRM: CAs pursue the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification to develop their skills in identifying, measuring, and managing financial risks. It enhances their career prospects in risk management roles, especially in Banking Jobs.
• Cost: The cost of the FRM program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately $2,000 excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the FRM certification, CAs can work in risk management roles such as risk analyst, risk manager, or chief risk officer in banks, insurance companies, asset management firms, and consulting firms.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA + FRM certified professionals can expect salaries ranging from INR 15-20 Lakh per annum.

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)

• Why do CAs pursue ACCA: CAs pursue the ACCA qualification to gain a global perspective on accounting and finance. The ACCA program covers financial management, taxation, and auditing, and is recognized in over 180 countries, enhancing their employability in the international market.
• Cost: The cost of the ACCA program, including registration, annual subscription, and exam fees, is approximately $3,000 to $4,000, excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the ACCA qualification, CAs can work in various roles such as financial manager, tax consultant, and auditor in multinational corporations, Big Four accounting firms, and consulting firms.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, country location, and industry. On average, CA + ACCA qualified professionals can expect salaries ranging from $50,000 to $120,000 per year.

MBA (Master of Business Administration):

• Why do CAs pursue MBA: CAs pursue an MBA to gain a broader understanding of business management, strategy, and leadership. It equips them with valuable skills in areas such as marketing, operations, and human resources, complementing their CA qualification and enhancing their career prospects in senior management or leadership roles.
• Cost: The cost of an MBA program varies depending on the institution, typically ranging from INR 20 to 30 Lakh or more for top-tier business schools.
• Job opportunities: After completing an MBA, CAs can work in various roles such as management consultant, finance manager, operations manager, or chief financial officer in a wide range of industries, including finance, consulting, and technology.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA+ MBA graduates can expect salaries ranging from INR 20 to 30 Lakh per year or more, depending on the prestige of the business school and the specific role.

Also Read: Top 7 Courses after MBA Finance in 2024 (With Highest salary)

CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

• Why do CAs pursue CPA: CAs pursue the CPA qualification to expand their career prospects in the international market, particularly in the United States. The CPA designation covers auditing, financial reporting, and taxation, and is globally recognized, making them more competitive in the global job market.
• Cost: The cost of the CPA program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately $2,000 to $3,000, excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the CPA qualification, CAs can work in various roles such as auditor, tax advisor, and financial analyst in multinational corporations, Big Four accounting firms, and consulting firms.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA + CPA qualified professionals can expect salaries ranging from $60,000 to $120,000 per year.

US CMA (Certified Management Accountant)

• Why do CAs pursue CMA: CAs pursue the CMA certification to specialize in management accounting, financial planning, and analysis. This credential can help them excel in roles such as financial analyst, management accountant, or finance manager.
• Cost: The cost of the US CMA program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately $1,000 to $1,500, excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the CMA certification, CAs can work in various roles such as financial analyst, management accountant, budget analyst, and finance manager in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and technology.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA + CMA certified professionals can expect salaries ranging from $60,000 to $110,000 per year.

CS (Company Secretary)

• Why do CAs pursue CS: CAs pursue the CS course to develop their expertise in corporate governance, compliance, and secretarial practices. This course can equip them with the necessary skills to ensure an organization’s adherence to legal and regulatory requirements and maintain effective communication with shareholders.
• Cost: The cost of the CS program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately INR 25,000 excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the CS course, CAs can work in various roles such as company secretary, corporate governance officer, or compliance officer in public or private companies, as well as in consulting firms.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CS qualified professionals can expect salaries ranging from INR 15 Lakh to INR 20 Lakh per year.

Job Oriented Certifications after CA

If you don’t want to commit much time and investment for the Qualifications listed above, you can pursue niche, job oriented courses for specialization after CA, which can also broaden your job horizon:

IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards)

• Why do CAs pursue IFRS: CAs pursue IFRS certification to specialize in financial reporting for multinational companies. With the increasing adoption of IFRS worldwide, expertise in these standards is in high demand, enhancing their career prospects in financial reporting, auditing, and consulting.
• Cost: The cost of the IFRS certification program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately $1,000 to $2,000, excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the IFRS certification, CAs can work in financial reporting, auditing, or consulting roles for companies that follow IFRS, including multinational corporations and Big Four accounting firms.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CA + IFRS certified professionals can expect salaries ranging from INR 15 to 20 Lakh per year.

CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)

• Why do CAs pursue CISA: CAs pursue the CISA certification to develop their skills in information systems auditing, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of an organization’s information systems. This certification can make them a valuable asset to any organization looking to safeguard its information systems.
• Cost: The cost of the CISA program, including registration and exam fees, is approximately $1,000 to $1,500, excluding study materials and additional preparation resources.
• Job opportunities: After completing the CISA certification, CAs can work in information systems auditing, control, and assurance roles in various industries, including finance, technology, and consulting.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CISA certified professionals can expect salaries ranging from INR 20 to 25 Lakh per year.

Financial Modeling & Valuations

• Why do CAs pursue this course: CAs pursue Financial Modeling & Valuations courses to enhance their skills in building financial models, analyzing business performance, and conducting valuations. These skills are crucial in making informed financial decisions, and for roles in investment banking, equity research, and corporate finance.
• Cost: The cost of a Financial Modeling & Valuations course ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 1 Lakh, depending on the program’s length, the institution offering it, and whether it’s an online or in-person course.
• Job opportunities: After completing a Financial Modeling & Valuations course, CAs can work in various roles such as financial analyst, investment banker, equity research analyst, and corporate finance specialist in investment banks, private equity firms, and multinational corporations.
• Average Salary: Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and industry. On average, CAs with Financial Modeling & Valuations expertise can expect salaries ranging from INR 30 to 40 Lakh per year.

Also Read: Top 7 Types of Financial Models (Explained With Examples)

Evaluating Your Interests and Career Goals

To evaluate your career goals after CA, you should consider the following:

1. Identify your passion and strengths: Assess what areas interest you the most and where your strengths lie.
2. Assess the scope of different courses: Research the market demand and long-term prospects for each course.
3. Consider the time commitment and investment: Evaluate the duration and financial investment required for each course.

Tips for Choosing the Right Course After CA

To make an informed decision about the course to pursue after CA, follow these tips:

1. Research various courses and their potential outcomes. Understand the benefits and career prospects each course offers.
2. Network with professionals who have pursued these additional qualifications. Learn from their experiences and insights.
3. The course of your choice should ensure you can manage work, studies, and personal commitments effectively.

Conclusion

The opportunities after completing your Chartered Accountancy are vast, and the right choice depends on your interests and career goals. By exploring different courses and opportunities, you can leverage your CA qualification to reach new heights of success.

Embrace the journey ahead and continue your path of professional growth!

Frequently Asked Questions