CIMA launches revised qualification
CIMA has unveiled its revised qualification - CIMA Beyond 2000 - the first to be launched with interactive computer-based training material from the start.
Speaking at the launch conference in London, CIMA president David Melvill said the institute had undertaken ‘comprehensive’ research with the Industrial Society in a bid to find the right ingredients for its future chartered management accountant trainees.
He said: It was some three years ago when we identified that significant changes in business were inevitable. We saw that major development in both information and communication technologies offered faster and more effective ways to manage and conduct business.’
Melvill also predicted the role of the management accountant would continue to evolve. he added: ‘Management accountants must play a wider role in business than ever before, making it necessary to acquire a broader range of management and technical skills.’
The first exams under the new programme will take place in May next year, while the announcement follows the recent decision by the English ICA to launch its revised syllabus from September in a bid to win back firms from the Scots ICA.
The institute has signed up financial software provider EQL International to develop and deliver the computer-based ‘CIMA Interactive study system, which will cover the five subjects on the syllabus.
Robert Jelly, director of Student Affairs at CIMA, added: ‘It is apparent that students, employers and education providers are now seeking flexibility in the delivery of training. CBT provides this flexibility. We also believe it is important to give students the opportunity to learn in the same medium as that through which they will be tested.’
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