Do you want to get a headstart and stand out from the crowd in front of your dream employer? These professional asset and investment management certifications can help. Here’s everything you need to know about professional asset and investment management certifications, including what you can expect, what you need to apply and what gaining these certifications can offer you.
Institute of Asset Management (IAM)
The IAM certification is an introductory qualification that certifies your knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of asset management. This certification is perfect for students who are new to asset management or graduates with some experience working within an asset management role. There are no entry requirements for this certification, they ask that you’re passionate about the industry and are dedicated and willing to learn. This certification is marked on a multiple-choice 2-hour exam that includes their five modules:
- Principles of Asset Management
- Asset Management Policy, Strategy and Planning
- Managing Asset Life Cycle Decisions and Activities
- Assessing and Managing Asset Management Risks
- Finance and Business Impact
You need to achieve an overall score of 65% and a score of no less than 50% in each of the modules to earn the IAM certification.
IAM also offers an advanced Diploma, aimed at those with previous asset management experience and those who work in specialist or management roles in asset management. The diploma offers a more in-depth understanding of asset management, along with learning how to apply professional judgement. There are no requirements to apply, but you must have prior experience in asset management in some way. The certification is based on a 3-hour exam comprising 12 modules, including Sustainable Asset Care and Performance and Contractor and Supply Management. You must score an overall 65% and no less than 50% for each module - if you score 75% or higher, you will be awarded a Diploma with Distinction!
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CFA Society UK
CFA UK believes in building a better investment profession for today and beyond. The IMC Level 4 Investment Management certification is a popular entry-level qualification that gives candidates the confidence to go into the UK investment sector. This certification will teach you core competency knowledge looked for by investment employers, covering key content for the role including accounting, regulation, ethics and investment practice.
Some investment management roles require candidates to have an IMC certification or study, so if you’re a graduate or student looking to break into the field, the IMC certification is for you. This certification doesn’t just apply to investment management roles, it can also be applied to portfolio management, sales & distribution and risk and investment consulting. There are no requirements for this qualification, but it’s recommended that you have prior knowledge of the field as this will help you achieve the most out of the course.
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Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI)
CISI is a widely respected and recognised body for the investment and securities profession in the UK. CISI offers a Level 4 Investment Management certification suitable for someone with little experience in the field and no relevant qualifications. This certification provides you with an advanced understanding of the areas and functions of investment management. You’ll learn how to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in various analytical scenarios, perfect for when you get your first job in the field. This qualification will take roughly 284 hours to complete, including the multiple-choice exams.
CISI also has a higher level Diploma in Capital Markets on offer, which is a step up from the level 4 qualification. Suiting someone who looks to pursue a career in professions like fixed income analysis, fund management, investor relations and portfolio management, this diploma takes between 18 months to two years to complete, but it can set you up to apply for higher-level jobs once achieved.
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How would I fund a professional asset and investment management certification?
The leading graduate employers in Asset and Investment Management may offer to fund your certification so that you can become more skilled and beneficial to their company. Funding a professional asset and management certification alone can be daunting, which is why it’s a good idea to take on a degree that is accredited by IMC. Some university partners include De Montfort University, Aston University and the University of Reading. The CFA calls this the IMC Advantage, claiming that students who leave university with IMC study are more likely to be hired and get a headstart over candidates who don’t. It’s paramount to consider these options when choosing a degree because they can help you break into this competitive industry.
Does a degree count as a professional asset and investment management certification?
Degrees related to asset and investment management include disciplines like business studies, accounting, engineering and physics. Although you may have gained real-life experience during your studies from internships or work experience, degrees are academic qualifications. Professional asset and investment management certifications allow you to become highly knowledgeable and skilled in one specific subject area, offering specialist expertise you can apply to your future job.
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Where can a professional asset and investment management certification take me?
A professional asset and investment certification can take you from a graduate to a professional candidate who has the confidence, skills and knowledge to apply for entry-level or mid-level jobs. Professional asset and investment certifications are highly regarded by employers and will help you stand out against other candidates who chose not to take on an extra qualification after their studies. This demonstrates your dedication to the field of work and that you’re interested in specialising in a specific area that will offer you higher paid roles in the future. Taking part in internships or industrial placements is also a great way to gain experience and show your knowledge!
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