Institute of Internal Auditors offers certifications in internal auditing

How do internal auditors prove their worth in their field? The possibilities are endless, and they often begin with certification. IIA certifications are as recognised and respected in internal auditing as any medal or award. They represent a practitioner’s commitment, preparation, proficiency, and hard work. Certification defines professionalism and garners respect from the highest levels.

Internal auditors add value to their profession through certification because it requires them to demonstrate their compliance with The IIA’s standards and their knowledge of The IIA’s International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF). “Certification represents one of the strongest assets we have to drive change across the profession and increase our recognition. We must make it a priority,” says former IIA Executive Board Chairman Roderick M. Winters, CIA. He strongly supports certification as a way to achieve your personal potential while enriching the potential of our profession.

The IIA offers four certifications in internal auditing. The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation is the only globally accepted certification for internal auditors and remains the standard by which individuals demonstrate their overall competency and knowledge of internal auditing. There are four specialty industry certifications. The Certification in Control Self-Assessment (CCSA) designation is an esteemed certification for CSA practitioners. The Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) is a respected certification for practitioners of financial Auditing Professional (CGAP) certification program was designed especially for auditors working in the public sector at all levels – federal/national, state/provincial, local, quasi-governmental, or crown authority, and the (CRMA) is designed for those individuals involved with Risk Management Assurance.

Certified Internal Auditors are an esteemed group of professionals. There are over 105,000 CIAs worldwide, and according to The IIA’s 2011Compensation Study, auditors with the CIA designation can earn up to 35 percent more than non-certified practitioners. There are over 5,300 CCSAs, 5,400 CFSAs, 2,800 CGAPs, and 1,400 CRMAs. Obviously, earning a CIA or specialty industry designation is a great way to distinguish yourself, command greater career marketability, advance yourself, and boost your earning potential. Winters adds, “Certification demonstrates to management and the board that the holder is knowledgeable about best practices and current industry trends and is dedicated to the profession.”

Achieving a certification designation means more than a medal or trophy. It’s more than those impressive letters after your name. It’s about credibility, competence, and dedication. It’s about striving to achieve a level of professionalism that others respect. Ultimately, it is up to you to prove your worth. (For further details visit the IIA Sri Lanka website:- www.iiasl.lk)