Investment Management Certificate

Investment Management Certificate

The Investment Management Certificate (IMC) is an FSA approved threshold competency examination that aims to test candidates' basic knowledge of the regulations and practices of financial markets, the categories of securities and the principles of investment management.

The IMC has justifiably built up a reputation for high standards, relevance and consistency. Currently held by over 15,000 investment professionals, it is recognised by the fund management industry as the entry level qualification of choice for those working in financial analysis and investment management in the UK. The IMC is often quoted as a prerequisite for posts in investment management companies.

The examination is specifically designed for those individuals seeking Approved Person status and involved in:

• managing investments
• advising clients in investments and/or derivatives
• dealing for clients in investments and/or derivatives
• advising on investments in the course of corporate finance business
• managing investments in relation to venture capital investments
• the activity of a broker fund advisor

The IMC's wide-ranging syllabus provides an excellent introduction to investment management for those working in the industry in related areas, such as information technology, compliance and marketing, and for those such as pension trustees, administrators and independent financial advisors who wish to further their personal knowledge of the investment management process. The full IMC syllabus is available from our website.

The IMC also offers a good introduction to the financial services industry and provides a solid foundation for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Program

Who runs the IMC?

The Investment Management Certificate (IMC) is administered by the CFA Society of the UK (formerly UKSIP).

Who can sit the IMC?

The Investment Management Certificate is open to individuals both inside and outside the financial services industry. No entry qualification criteria have been set and the CFA Society of the UK does not require you to become a student member of the Society prior to sitting the exam.

How can you train towards the IMC ?

BPP offer a complete range of training options when it comes to the IMC including weekday, evening and distance learning courses. We offer comprehensive courses if you are new to the industry or wish to study at a slower pace to ensure you take everything in and comprehensively cover the syllabus. For those that have a background in finance or currently work in the industry, we offer accelerated training courses. Please check the dates and prices page for full information.

Comprehensive or accelerated courses - which is best for you?

The intensive course is designed for those that have a background in finance or currently work in the industry and cover areas of the syllabus on a day-to-day basis. If you are new to the industry, a recent graduate or have less then 12 months work experience in the financial services industry, you should consider the comprehensive course. If you would like further help or guidance, please email our Course Booking Team

Nick Bartlett - Head of IMC training

"The IMC is very good at dealing with the conceptual issues that sit behind investment management. It introduces many of the key areas that delegates will go onto if they pursue the CFA® exams. By studying the IMC, delegates can gain a fundamental understanding of the principles that sit behind investment, combined will a well respected and sought after qualification. Organisations can rest assured knowing their staff understand the nature of the products being sold."

In a nutshell …

""If I was a delegate I would sit the IMC as it provides a comprehensive understanding of investment markets and acts as an excellent springboard into the CFA© exams. It is also sought after and well respected by employers."