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CIA Vs. CPA: Which Is A Better Career Opportunity In Future?

Wondering whether to pursue a CPA or CIA certification? Discover the key differences, from career paths to skills, and find out which path aligns with your goals.

Imtiaz Munshi, CPA

Last Updated: Feb 13, 2025
9597

In finance and accounting, Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) are the top recognized certifications. A CPA is a trained accounting, finance, tax, and auditing professional who requires a state license. In contrast, the CIA is specialized in auditing and carries micro-internal auditing skills. It is important to note that the CIA is an international designation, while the CPA is recognized in the United States.

So, are you someone who wants to become a certified finance and accounting professional but is confused between CIA vs CPA? I agree; there are a lot of questions arising into your mind about whether to opt for CPA or CIA or CPA and CIA. Ultimately, your education and career goals determine whether you want to become a CIA or a CPA.

To simplify your journey in selecting the right profession, we will let you know about both the qualifications and their respective career opportunities.

CIA vs. CPA : Roles & Career Opportunities

A. What is a CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)?

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification is a globally recognized qualification conferred by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). The CIA certification demonstrates expertise in internal audit principles and practices. To hold CIA certification, one must fulfill the CPE requirements by earning credits through attending courses that meet the International Standards for the Practice of Internal Auditing.

What Are CIA CPE Requirements?

To maintain CIA certification, professionals must complete 40 hours of continuing education every year, including 2 hours of ethics. For non-practicing CIAs, the CPE credit requirement is set at 20 hours annually. Continuing education can be in the form of online courses, seminars, webinars, or conferences related to internal audits or other relevant topics, including:

Internal Control
Financial Reporting
Business Management
Fraud & Forensics
Risk Management
Cybersecurity
Ethics, etc.

Career Opportunities for CIA

The CIA certification opens up a variety of career opportunities for professionals, including:

Internal auditor
Internal audit manager
Director of the internal audit

Internal auditors can explore their careers working in the finance industry, healthcare centers, and government offices.

Average CIA Salary

An average Certified Internal Auditor's salary is around $80,000 per annum, which may vary according to their expertise and specialty.

According to the Robert Half Salary Guide, internal auditors in corporate accounting and financial services earn huge pay as per their designation and job roles.

CIA Job roles	Average CIA Salary
Auditor -Financial Services	$84,500 - $103,500
Internal Audit Manager (Financial Services)	$136,950 - $174,900
Senior Internal Audit Manager (Financial Services)	$109,450 - $138,050
Head Internal Audit Manager (Financial Services)	$178,000 - $282500

Roles and salaries for some of the most common roles are as follows:
- Internal Audit Specialist: $85,632
- Audit Manager: $130,190
- Staff Internal Auditor: $64,772

B. What is CPA ?

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), is the US designation conferred by AICPA. A CPA provides financial planning and goal-achieving services to individuals, businesses, and organizations. By earning CPA certification, one will be able to fast-track their career into influential positions across every industry.

What Are CPA CPE Requirements?

To maintain a CPA license, professionals must complete 120 hours of continuing education every three-year rolling period (*each state regulatory body has its own state-specific CPE credit requirement). Continuing education can be in the form of live courses, seminars, self-study courses, conferences, etc. These courses must be related to relevant subject areas, including:

Accounting
Auditing
Taxation
Advisory services, etc.

Career Opportunities for CPA

The certification in accounting opens up various career opportunities for professionals. There is no limit to the size of firms you can work for in public accounting. You may work within the firm in a variety of areas, including CPA internal audit; you also play a role in tax planning and management consulting. Likewise, you can develop a career in business and industry by engaging in diverse areas.

In addition to accounting services, CPAs can provide financial forensics, personal financial planning, business valuation, and IT consulting. Whether you're at the federal, state, or local level of government, you can create a path to success. Additionally, many diverse opportunities are available through non-profits and education.

CPA Average Salary

A CPA has a diverse job role in an organization, and they earn relatively more than a CIA, but it depends on what the CPA does. Anyhow, CPA salary will mostly depend on your geographical location, title, and years of experience. For CPAs, being a domestic designation, the salary is highly dependent on their state.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a CPA, on average, earns a salary of $86,470.

List Of High Paying States For US CPA:

States	Average CPA Salary
Washington D.C	$110,750
New York	$110,320
New Jersey	$102,040
California	$96,210
Massachusettes	$95,830

Wrapping Up

Both the CIA and CPA certifications are highly respected in the finance and accounting industry. Certified Internal Auditor is an internationally recognized designation, whereas the Certified Public Accountant is a domestic but highly reputed designation. Despite those difference, he earning and salaries of the both designation is more or less similar, differing from state and quality of service.

However, the choice between pursuing one or the other depends on individual career goals and interests. Pursuing both certifications can enhance a professional's career opportunities but requires a significant commitment of time and effort.

If an individual is interested in internal audit, the CIA certification may be a better choice. The CIA certification is designed for internal audit professionals and covers risk management, governance, and business acumen.

On the other hand, if you like accounting or finance subject areas, then CPA certification may be a better choice. This is because the CPA certification covers financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business environment and concepts. This makes it a more comprehensive certification for accounting professionals.

FAQs

The CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) is globally recognized and focuses primarily on internal auditing and risk management. In contrast, the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is a U.S.-recognized credential aimed at financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business consulting. Each certification caters to distinct career paths in the finance and accounting industries.

With a CIA certification, you can pursue various roles such as internal auditor, internal audit manager, or director of internal audit. These positions are available in diverse sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, offering a broad scope of professional environments.

Salaries for CIAs and CPAs can vary significantly based on the role, industry, and geographical location. While CIAs earn an average of around $80,000 annually, CPAs typically earn slightly more, with averages depending on state-specific factors and job functions.

CIAs need to complete 40 hours of CPE annually, including 2 hours in ethics, to maintain their certification. CPAs must complete 120 hours of CPE every three years, though specific requirements can vary by state.

If your career goals align with both internal auditing and broader financial planning, you might consider pursuing both certifications. This dual qualification can significantly enhance your career opportunities and versatility in the finance and accounting sectors.

About the Author

Imtiaz Munshi, CPA

CFO, AZSTEC LLC

Imtiaz Munshi, CPA (US), is the CFO at Azstec, LLC and a trusted advisor to high-net-worth entrepreneurs. A seasoned tax planner and a business strategist with his 25 years of experience, he helps businesses grow smarter and stronger. Imtiaz specializes in guiding entrepreneurs and enterprises through complex financial decisions with clarity and confidence. His passion lies in simplifying strategy, optimizing tax outcomes, and driving sustainable growth. Through his work and thought leadership, Imtiaz continues to empower CPAs and business owners to stay ahead in an evolving financial landscape shaped by AI, ESG, and data-driven change.

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