The Institute of Management Accountants introduced two new education programs for sustainable business practices and diversity, equity and inclusion in the accounting and finance profession.
The six-course IMA Sustainability Business Practices Certificate program instructs students about the fundamentals of sustainable business practices, how they relate to current issues the world is facing, and the impact of these practices on financial processes and strategic directions moving forward. The five-course IMA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Practices Certificate provides tools and practices to encourage a more inclusive environment, with interactive exercises that demystify DE&I, highlight the overlap between DE&I and sustainability, and demonstrate ethical ways to champion DE&I initiatives within the accounting and finance profession. Both programs include a cumulative assessment in which participants can earn a professional certificate and digital badge.
"Business practices on sustainability and DE&I are still relatively new areas being addressed by organizations, and these certificate programs are getting essential information into the accounting and finance field, reflecting changes in business expectations," said Jackie Oppenheim, vice president of education and career services at the IMA, in a statement last week. "The certificate programs serve as a type of training for all professionals, specifically for senior leaders who need to get up to speed on both areas, and for future leaders to see that they are making a difference. Achieving these certificates demonstrates to employers a level of competence and understanding of how these two areas affect the accounting and finance function, and the ability to contribute too."
The IMA Sustainability Business Practices Certificate will give participants the basics of sustainable business practices, how they match up with current global issues, and how they will affect financial processes and strategic directions in the future. The program covers topics including environmental, social and governance matters, partnering for the integration of sustainability in business, and strategies, planning, performance, monitoring and reporting in a sustainable business environment.
The IMA Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Practices Certificate is based on the IMA's thought leadership and research publications, with dozens of practices aimed at providing a sense of belonging, improving organizational innovation, and attracting, retaining and promoting diverse talent. The program consists of five courses.
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