Did you know? Despite completing one of the toughest professional qualifications in India, a staggering number of Chartered Accountants (CAs) find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of what to pursue next.
Whether it’s:
- To deepen your expertise
- Open up new career avenues
- Stay ahead in a competitive job market
The journey doesn’t end with CA—it’s just the beginning!
In this blog, we’ll answer the most asked question, “What to do after CA?” and walk you through the top 7 courses that can elevate your career to new heights.
Stick with us till the end, and not only will you discover what to do after CA, but also which course could be your next best move.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive in.
What to do after CA?
While the CA designation offers numerous opportunities, the business world is evolving, and staying ahead requires more than just a strong foundation.
Opting for additional courses can:
- Sharpen your expertise
- Expand your career options
- Make you more versatile in today’s dynamic job market.
Whether you’re aiming for:
- Leadership roles
- Entering niche financial sectors
- Improving your global employability, we’ve got you covered.
Stick around to discover how these courses can be the game-changer your career needs!
7 Courses You Can Opt For After Your CA
Here are 7 courses that can take you from just a CA to a specialized expert, helping you unlock new doors and boost your career to the next level!
Let’s dig in!
1. CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
If you’re keen on working in finance, especially in global markets, this is the course for you.
The CFA focuses on:
- Investment management
- Financial analysis
- Portfolio management.
With a bachelor’s degree (or in the final year of one) and a strong interest in financial markets, you can pave your way in the field. The CFA exam has 3 levels of exams, so it’s a long haul but worth it.
Study material is provided, and you’ll need to devote solid hours to prep, but with our guide, you can save time and score 90 percentile.
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2. FRM (Financial Risk Manager):
Focused on risk management, FRM should be on your radar If you’re passionate about identifying and managing financial risks—like market or credit risk.
This course sets you up for roles in:
- Banks
- Asset management firms
- Hedge funds.
There’s no strict degree requirement, but having a finance or related background helps.
You need to crack 2 levels of exams and put in two years of relevant work experience to earn the FRM designation.
3. ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants):
Want international recognition? ACCA is a globally recognized qualification that opens doors to:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Management.
It’s great for you if you want a broad understanding of business finance.
To get into it, you can start right after high school or college. For CA graduates, exemptions for some exams are possible.
ACCA has 13 exams, but you may skip some based on your prior qualifications.
It’s flexible, with options to study part-time or full-time.
4. MBA (Master of Business Administration):
The most talked about degree, isnt’ it? MBA is perfect for those looking to move into:
- Management
- Leadership
- Entrepreneurship
It’s a versatile degree that strengthens your business skills across different fields like marketing, finance, and operations.
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree and some work experience (though freshers are also considered by some programs) to get into the exam.
Depending on where you want to study, you’ll need to crack entrance exams like the GMAT or CAT.
5. CPA (Certified Public Accountant):
If you’re eyeing work in the U.S. or for multinational companies, CPA is a great choice and is one of the highly respected courses worldwide.
It focuses on:
- Accounting
- Taxation
- Auditing
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is typically required, and in some states, additional coursework is needed.
To earn the CPA, you’ll need to pass 4 exams.
Once you’re done, you’ll also need work experience (about 12 years) to get your CPA license.
6. CMA (Cost Management Accountant):
The Indian CMA is focused on cost and management accounting, with an emphasis on:
- Optimizing costs
- Managing financial resources
- Improving overall business efficiency.
It’s perfect for those who want to specialize in cost control and financial management within Indian industries.
If you’re already a CA, you may be exempt from some of the papers.
The CMA course has 3 levels:
- Foundation
- Intermediate
- Final.
After passing the exams, you’ll need to complete practical training, typically 6 months to 3 years, depending on your prior qualifications.
Once completed, you’re set to work in key roles like:
- Cost management
- Auditing
- Financial advisory within companies or consulting firms.
7. CS (Company Secretary):
If corporate law and governance interests you, CS is the course to go for.
A Company Secretary ensures a company complies with legal regulations and runs efficiently.
CA graduates often find it easier to grasp, as there’s some overlap in the content.
The CS course has 3 stages:
- Foundation
- Executive
- Professional.
After passing the exams, you’ll need practical training to qualify as a Company Secretary.
Conclusion
“What to do after CA?” doesn’t have to be an overwhelming question.
The key is understanding your goals, aligning them with market demands, and identifying your interests—all while staying aware of the future scope of each qualification.
Whether you’re aiming for:
- A leadership role
- A specialized niche
- Global opportunities
One of these courses will surely complement your CA.
Take the time to reflect on where you want to go next and let that guide your decision.
After all, your career is an investment, so choose wisely and pave the way for long-term success!
