The CIMA is specifically for financial professionals who seek competency as an advanced investment consultant. The CIMA program emphasizes modern portfolio theory, asset allocation, and manager selection. The CIMA designation is offered through Denver based Investment Management Consultants Association (IMCA). The educational component of the CIMA certification process is completed at Wharton Business School’s Executive Education Program at the University of Pennsylvania.

The CFA designation, referred to as “the gold standard” by The Economist, is a graduate-level program focused on investment management. The CFA curriculum focuses heavily on portfolio management, security analysis, financial statement analysis, and security valuation techniques. The CFA curriculum is also known for its emphasis on ethics, ensuring charter holders adhere to the highest of standards.

The CFP designation is awarded to individuals who have completed a rigorous program covering a list of nearly 100 topics on integrated financial planning, including financial, estate, tax, and investment planning. Additionally, CFP professionals follow a strict code of ethical standards, ensuring they always serve their clients’ best interests.

Individuals who hold the CRPC designation have completed a course of study encompassing pre-and post-retirement needs, asset management, estate planning and the entire retirement planning process using models and techniques from real client situations. Additionally, individuals must pass an end-of-course examination that tests their ability to synthesize complex concepts and apply theoretical concepts to real-life situations. All designees have agreed to adhere to Standards or Professional Conduct and are subject to a disciplinary process.