CMA Certification - Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much will the certification process cost?
A. The costs will vary, depending on many factors, which include, but are not limited to number of classes taken, number of tests taken, whether the classroom sessions were in person, webinar based or pre recorded etc. We anticipate the total one time costs per certification level would not exceed the equivalent of attending a local community college for a semester or two as a full time student.
Q. I’ve been in this business quite a while and have lots of knowledge and expertise. Must I attend classes to become CMA Certified?
A. As an applicant for certification, it is required that you pass the test. Sample test questions will be available in advance of testing, as well as course descriptions. It’s up to the individual applicant to determine if they would like to take the class sessions. All applicants passing required tests will have a final face to face interview with the CMA Certification Board before being awarded their certification.
Q. What are CEUs and why are they important?
A. CEUs are short for Continuing Education Units. All CMA certification program applicants and all CMA certification holders will be required to keep their knowledge up to date by earning a minimum of 4.0 CEUs per year. Failure to earn those CEUs will halt the process for an applicant and cause revocation of any previously awarded certification. CEU sessions will be offered at every CMA sanctioned event, at the major trade shows and through webinars and pre recorded sessions at the CMA web site. Event fees may apply to earn CMA CEUs and will vary. It’s anticipated each 1.0 CEU will be less than $75 with most under $50.
Q. Must I be a CMA member to hold a CMA certification?
A. Although membership in the CMA is not required to hold a CMA certification, we do encourage eligible candidates to join the CMA. CMA members in good standing do receive substantial discounts on educational programing and fees. In most cases, the available discounts are more than the cost of an annual membership in the CMA.
Q. How will people know I’ve earned a CMA Certification?
A. The CMA will identify not only its certified professionals at its website and in promotional materials, but we will also note those applicants in process of earning certification. For those who have earned CMA Certifications, a special logo will be available for their use in their marketing materials, plus any certified individual will be authorized to add their certification initials behind their name. For example, John Doe would be authorized by virtue of earning a master level certification to include his professional designation. Therefore, John Doe would become John Doe, M.C.M.
Q. Is there a time limit on earning a CMA Certification?
A. There is no time limit to be in process of earning a CMA certification, as long as the eligible candidate remains in good standing and earns the required annual CEUs.
Q. How do I get started?
A. Join the CMA, if you have not already done so,and become eligible for tuition and fee discounts. Fill out your application paperwork, pay your membership fees and you can start earning your CEUs immediately. Full course work for all levels is currently being finalized, with anticipated course work and testing and testing rollout beginning in 2012. Program updates will be posted at the CMA website, as well as announced in the CMA monthly e-newsletter, PROfiles magazine, in selected trade press outlets and at industry events. To get a free subscription to the CMA's monthly e-newsletter, use the "Join Our Free Mailing List" box on the left side of your screen!
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