Earning financial certifications this year can give you a competitive edge in the Texas finance job market. Many employers prefer candidates with industry specialization who adhere to industry standards, best practices, and codes of ethics.
Certifications that cover topics such as accounting, financial planning, investing, and insurance demonstrate your knowledge exceeds the basic requirements to provide service. They emphasize your commitment to ongoing learning and professionalism.
Consider earning any of these top financial certifications this year to boost your career in Texas.
Top Financial Certifications for Texas Professionals
Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a fiduciary and a fee-only planner. They must complete 30 hours of continuing education each reporting period.
The following is required to become a CFP:
- A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited educational institution
- At least 6,000 hours of professional financial planning experience or 4,000 hours of apprenticeship
- Completion of the coursework covering the financial planning process and principles, retirement planning, risk management, taxes, and insurance
- Passing the CFP exam
Chartered Financial Consultant
AChartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation is a desirable alternative to the CFP designation. A ChFC must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 1 hour of ethics, and annually renew the certification process.
The following is required to become a ChFC:
- High school diploma or GED
- 3 years of full-time experience in financial planning or a related field within the 5 years preceding the designation award
- Completion of the coursework covering many of the same topics as the CFP coursework as well as small-business planning, behavioral finance, financial planning for divorce, and planning for LGBTQ+ clients, unmarried couples, and clients with special needs
Chartered Financial Analyst
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a prestigious, well-respected designation for an investment analyst. The following is required to become a CFA:
- A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited educational institution; a combination of 4,000 hours of higher education and work experience in 3 sequential years; or enrollment in the program within 11 months of graduation from an accredited educational institution
- 2-3 professional reference letters
- Mastering 10 investment topics
- Passing 3 levels of exams
Certified Public Accountant
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is widely recognized for accountants, tax preparers, financial analysts, and chief financial officers. A CPA can provide financial planning services, complete individual and corporate tax returns, and assist with audits.
Each state has prerequisites and requirements to earn certification. The general requirements to become a CPA include:
- 150 hours of coursework
- Passing a 4-part exam covering approximately 600 key points
Certified Management Accountant
A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is an expert in management accounting. They typically work in corporate settings.
The following is required to become a CFA:
- A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited educational institution
- 2 years of continuous experience in management accounting or finance
- Completion of the coursework covering 12 competencies, including external financial reporting decisions, performance management, financial statement analysis, corporate finance, and professional ethics
- Passing a 2-part exam covering 6 competencies each
Boost Your Finance Career in Texas
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