The Qualification Examination topics, Certification Examination topics, and the topics approved for continuing education credit were derived from a job analysis survey of the knowledge, skills, and abilities that are needed by CIMA professionals to fulfill work requirements. The major topic areas are outline on this page, and you can download detailed listings of the topics below.

Major Topic Areas for CIMA Certification

I. Make portfolio recommendations based on modern portfolio theory and post-modern portfolio theory
      - Analyze the components of returns
      - Analyze risk and beta
      - Recommend asset selection and allocation
      - Formulate and recommend tax-efficient strategy
      - Apply behavioral finance theory

II. Develop and recommend an investment policy for a client (individual or institutional)
      - Explain the components of an investment policy statement (IPS)
      - Prepare IPS and make recommendations for clients

III. Analyze performance measurement and recommend the selection of managers
      - Analyze performance measurement and attribution
      - Perform manager search and selection

IV. Analyze and recommend specific investments
      - Assess fixed-income markets
      - Assess equity markets
      - Analyze alternative investments and derivatives

V. Analyze ethical and legal implications
      - Apply ethical considerations, including IMCA’s Code of Professional Responsibility
      - Identify legal considerations, including fiduciary responsibilities

Detailed Topic Listings for CIMA Certification

• Qualification Examination Topics—please reference pages 7–8 of the Candidate Handbook for a detailed topic outline and the percentage of examination items devoted to the topic category
• Certification Examination Topics—please reference pages 8–10 of the Candidate Handbook for a detailed topic outline and the percentage of examination items devoted to the topic category
• Accepted Topics for CIMA/CIMC Continuing Education Credit