Becoming a consultant at a top management consulting firm is a dream of many people. However, it is always a challenging and competitive journey.
Consultants or other positions are required to meet a set of high standards, and criteria to pass the recruitment process. Degrees and certifications are some of the most essential factors affecting candidates’ passing chances.
In this article, we will tell you about the degrees and certifications needed for different positions at management consulting firms.
So, let’s roll down to learn more.
Table of Contents
What is management consulting?
Management consulting is an industry providing professional advice to organizations to improve their overall performance.
The purpose of management consulting is to help the organization run more smoothly and effectively in the long run.
What does a management consultant do?
A management consultant helps organizations perform better and solve specific business problems by offering expert advice on various areas like strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and how the organization is structured.
Management consultants work with diverse clients, including private companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Their job involves evaluating the current state of an organization, identifying areas where improvements can be made, and then proposing strategies to bring about positive change.
What does a management consultant do?
Qualifications needed for different levels
Entry-level positions
For entry-level jobs in consulting, you will usually need a Bachelor’s Degree. This degree can be in business, economics, finance, or even engineering, as long as it gives you a good understanding of how business works.
It’s also helpful, but not required, to have certifications. At this entry level, some suitable certifications are Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or entry-level Six Sigma certification.
It is a beginner-level certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It helps validate your knowledge of basic project management concepts, processes, and terminology.
-
Entry-level Six Sigma certification
Six Sigma certification includes five levels including White Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, and Master Black Belt. White Belt and Yellow Belt certifications are the most suitable for entry-level positions in consulting firms.
These certifications demonstrate your understanding of Six Sigma methodologies, which are used to improve business processes and efficiency.
Besides your degree and certifications, having internship experience or work experience in business or finance can really help. These experiences give you practical insights and make you more competitive when applying for consulting roles.
Qualifications needed for entry-level positions
Mid-level positions
For mid-level positions in consulting firms, having a Master’s Degree can be beneficial, though it’s not always required. Many firms prefer candidates with an MBA or another relevant advanced degree because it shows a deeper understanding of business concepts.
Some certifications you can consider to get at this level are the Certified Management Consultant (CMC), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Green Belt Six Sigma certification.
It is a globally recognized credential that proves a consultant’s competence and integrity. It’s awarded by the International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI) and shows that the consultant meets high standards and can deliver quality services to clients.
It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It validates a project manager’s ability to manage and direct projects effectively.
The Six Sigma Green Belt is an important certification level that represents a professional’s competence in assisting with data-driven improvement projects using Six Sigma tools and principles.
Green Belts serve as a core part of process improvement teams, working under the guidance of Black Belts or Master Black Belts.
In terms of skills and experience, you typically need 3-5 years of relevant experience, either in consulting or in the industry you are working in. This experience should include managing client relationships and leading project teams.
Qualifications needed for mid-level positions
Senior-level positions
For senior-level positions in consulting firms, an advanced degree is often highly desirable, particularly for top-tier firms. Many candidates have an MBA or another relevant advanced degree, which reflects a strong foundation in business strategy and leadership.
Some crucial certifications for this level include the Certified Management Consultant (CMC), the Project Management Professional (PMP), Six Sigma Black Belt, and Lean Gold certification.
To obtain this certification, candidates must go through a national member institute of the International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI).
Earning a CMC certification signals that you meet rigorous standards of excellence and allows you to join an international network of certified consultants, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth.
This well-regarded certification can lead to career advancement, promotions, and higher earning potential.
PMP holders are required to earn 60 Professional Development Units every three years to maintain their certification.
It is an advanced credential that indicates deep expertise in Six Sigma methodologies and project management. It covers advanced topics like statistical analysis, leadership, and strategic improvement.
It is intended for senior practitioners and leaders who are tasked with driving major Lean initiatives and organizational transformations.
This certification demonstrates a thorough understanding of Lean principles and methodologies.
Depending on your area of specialization, industry-specific certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), or CHC (Certified Healthcare Consultant) may also be necessary.
In terms of skills and experience, senior consultants usually have 7-10+ years of experience in consulting or related fields. They must have strong leadership abilities, including experience managing large teams and overseeing complex projects.
At this level, strategic thinking is key, as these roles involve developing and implementing long-term strategies for clients.
Qualifications needed for senior-level positions
Why are degrees and certifications so important?
Enhance your professionalism
Degrees and certifications show that your skills are up-to-date and have been validated by a credible authority. This gives employers and clients confidence in your abilities, making you a more attractive candidate for different jobs and projects.
Demonstrate commitment to your career
Having degrees and certifications indicate that you are willing to invest in your own development to improve your professional performance.
This kind of dedication is often valued by employers, as it shows that you take your work seriously.
Boost career opportunities
Degrees and certifications open doors to better jobs by positioning you as a top choice during the hiring process. When you have these qualifications, you stand out from other candidates, giving you an advantage in securing more advanced roles.
Why are degrees and certifications so important?
Top 8 popular certifications for management consultants
Top 8 popular certifications for management consultants
Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
The Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) is a globally recognized certification offered by ISACA. It’s designed for professionals who manage, advise, or support the governance of IT within an organization.
This certification aims to validate a person’s knowledge and expertise in IT governance, including the frameworks, principles, and practices needed to effectively oversee IT systems and ensure they align with business goals.
The CGEIT examination consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 4 hours to complete it.
The exam covers five key areas, known as domains, that make up the CGEIT framework, including:
-
Governance of enterprise IT (34% of the exam)
It focuses on how IT governance is established and maintained within an organization.
-
IT resources management (28% of the exam)
It involves managing the IT resources needed to support the organization’s objectives.
-
Strategic alignment (20% of the exam)
It ensures that IT strategies align with the overall business strategy.
-
Risk management (13% of the exam)
It covers identifying and managing risks related to IT.
-
Performance measurement (5% of the exam)
It focuses on how to measure and monitor the performance of IT systems and processes.
The CGEIT certification is ideal for professionals like Chief Information Officers (CIOs), IT Governance Consultants, IT Strategy Directors, Senior IT Managers, IT Risk and Compliance Officers, and Enterprise Architects.
The Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
The Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).
It is designed for experienced business analysts who want to validate their advanced skills and knowledge in the field of business analysis. Earning a CBAP certification shows that you have a deep understanding of business analysis principles and practices.
The CBAP examination consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 3.5 hours to complete it.
The exam is based on the BABOK Guide (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge) and covers six key knowledge areas:
-
Business analysis planning and monitoring, which focuses on how to plan and monitor business analysis work
-
Elicitation and collaboration, which involves gathering requirements and working with stakeholders
-
Requirement life cycle management, which covers managing requirements throughout their life cycle
-
Strategy analysis, which involves analyzing the business environment and defining business strategies
-
Requirements analysis and design definition, which focuses on analyzing requirements and designing solutions
-
Solution evaluation, which involves assessing how well a solution meets the business needs
The CBAP certification is best suited for professionals like Senior Business Analysts, Business Analysis Consultants, Lead Business System Analysts, etc, with extensive experience in business analysis, and Product Managers who focus on business analysis.
The Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is a globally recognized credential for professionals who audit, control, monitor, and assess an organization’s information systems and technology.
The CISA certification focuses on ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information systems and aligns with best practices in IT governance, security, and compliance.
The CISA examination consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 4 hours to complete the test.
The exam covers five key areas of information systems auditing:
-
Information systems auditing process (21% of the exam) which focuses on the methods and procedures for auditing information systems.
-
Governance and management of IT (17% of the exam) which covers the oversight and management of IT resources and policies
-
Information systems acquisition, development, and implementation (12% of the exam) which involves evaluating the processes for acquiring and implementing information systems
-
Information systems operations, maintenance, and support (23% of the exam) which looks at how information systems are operated, maintained, and supported
-
Protection of information assets (27% of the exam) which focuses on safeguarding information assets from threats and vulnerabilities.
The CISA certification is ideal for professionals such as Information Systems Auditors, IT Audit Managers, Compliance Analysts, IT Risk and Assurance Consultants, and IT Governance Professionals.
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified Management Consultant (CMC)
The Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is a prestigious certification awarded by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA).
It is recognized worldwide and represents a high level of professionalism, expertise, and commitment to ethical standards in the consulting field.
Earning a CMC certification demonstrates that a consultant adheres to rigorous standards and has a deep understanding of best practices in management consulting.
The CMC examination includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and/or essay questions. The exact format can vary based on the certification body or specific requirements of IMC USA.
The duration of the exam typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours.
The exam covers essential areas of management consulting, including:
-
Consulting process and methodologies which involves understanding the various methods and processes used in consulting
-
Project management which focuses on managing projects effectively from start to finish
-
Client relationship management which covers how to build and maintain strong relationships with clients
-
Ethical and professional standards which ensures adherence to ethical practices and professional conduct
-
Business strategy and analysis which involves analyzing and developing effective business strategies
The CMC certification is ideal for management consultants, strategy consultants, business consultants, independent consultants with at least 3 years of experience, internal consultants within corporations, and consulting firm partners.
The Certified Management Consultant (CMC)
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) is a certification offered by ISACA.
It is globally recognized and designed for professionals who manage, control, and monitor information systems and enterprise risk.
The CRISC certification focuses on risk management and the implementation of effective controls to protect information systems and technology from potential threats and vulnerabilities.
The CRISC examination consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 4 hours to complete it. The exam covers four key areas:
-
Governance (27% of the exam) which focuses on the frameworks and practices for overseeing IT and enterprise risk management.
-
Risk assessment (26% of the exam) which involves identifying and evaluating risks that could impact the organization.
-
Risk response and mitigation (23% of the exam) which covers strategies for responding to and reducing risks.
-
Risk and control monitoring and reporting (24% of the exam) which focuses on monitoring and reporting on the effectiveness of risk management and control measures.
The CRISC certification is ideal for professionals in IT risk management, information systems control, IT compliance, IT auditing, and information security.
The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is one of the most recognized and respected credentials in the field of project management.
This certification signifies a high level of expertise in managing projects effectively and is valued by employers around the world.
The PMP examination consists of 180 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 230 minutes to complete the test.
The exam is based on the PMI’s Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) and covers three main domains:
-
People (42% of the exam) which focuses on leading and managing project teams, engaging stakeholders, and resolving conflicts.
-
Process (50% of the exam) which encompasses the various processes, methodologies, and best practices used in project management
-
Business Environment (8% of the exam) which addresses how projects impact organizational strategy and business objectives
The PMP certification is ideal for project managers, senior project managers, project coordinators, project analysts, program managers, and project team leaders.
The Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification is offered by Scrum Alliance and is widely recognized for professionals involved in Scrum and Agile project management.
This credential demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills to effectively manage and lead Scrum teams, ensuring successful implementation of Agile practices.
To obtain the CSM certification, candidates must first attend a two-day training course led by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). This training provides a solid foundation in Scrum principles and practices.
After completing the training, candidates must pass the CSM exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and is usually administered online. Candidates have one hour to complete the exam.
Once you pass the exam, you receive the CSM certification from Scrum Alliance. To keep the certification valid, you need to renew it every two years.
The CSM certification is best suited for project managers, Scrum Masters, Agile coaches, team leads, product owners, and software developers who are interested in Agile methodologies and want to enhance their ability to manage Scrum teams effectively.
The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification
Six Sigma Certifications
Six Sigma certifications are professional credentials that validate a person’s understanding and ability to apply Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques to improve processes and quality.
These certifications are often categorized by different “belt” levels, which represent various degrees of expertise and roles within Six Sigma projects.
It is an entry-level certification, usually consisting of 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions, with an exam duration of about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
It covers basic concepts of Six Sigma, including its methodology, key terms, and principles.
To receive this certification, you are required to take an examination including 40 to 60 questions, which can be multiple-choice or true-false, with a time limit of 1 to 2 hours.
It focuses on foundational Six Sigma concepts, the DMAIC process (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), roles and responsibilities, and basic tools and techniques.
This certification requires candidates to pass an exam with multiple-choice questions within a four-hour timeframe.
This certification covers detailed aspects of Six Sigma, including defining problems, measuring performance, analyzing data, improving processes, and controlling changes.
This certification typically involves completing a specialized training course followed by an exam that may include multiple-choice questions, case studies, and problem-solving exercises.
The exam covers advanced Six Sigma topics, including the DMAIC methodologies, statistical tools, and project management.
The exam duration usually ranges from 3 to 4 hours.
This certification is the highest level, involving 100-150 multiple-choice questions with an exam duration of 2 to 4 hours.
It focuses on advanced areas such as data analysis, design for Six Sigma (DFSS), lean methodologies, change management, and financial performance metrics.
These certifications are ideal for quality assurance analysts, process improvement specialists, manufacturing engineers, project managers with a quality focus, operations managers, and Lean Six Sigma consultants.
Six Sigma certifications
Recommendations from MConsultingPrep
Degrees and certifications are great ways to show off your skills and boost your credibility, but they alone won’t guarantee a job. To really stand out you will need more than just these credentials.
It’s important to also prepare a strong resume and cover letter, and to be well-prepared for assessments and interviews. These are initial factors you need to qualify before employers assess your degrees and certifications.
So, let's learn more about how to create an impressive resume and other tips to pass the recruitment process through our Free Courses “Prospective Starter Pack - A-Z MBB Application”.
/filters:quality(75)//case_thumb/1669622680631_ultimate_management_consulting_program_3.png)