Certification comparison
How does CMA stack up versus the competition?
Every education program in this comparison table provides meaningful value to mortgage professionals. But their goals and curriculum vary significantly.
What’s different about CMA?
The Certified Mortgage Advisor (CMA) course was developed with a unique objective — helping loan originators become trusted advisors by understanding the economy, the housing market, the Federal Reserve’s role, mortgage markets and financing strategies.
The CMA education doesn’t stop when you pass the test. There are CMA-exclusive webinars held throughout the year and new content is added regularly.
The CMA curriculum also multiplies the value of an MBS Highway subscription. You’ll keep your CMA knowledge alive — and expand it — by watching the Morning Update and using MBS Highway’s comprehensive toolkit.
Side by side
Where CMA stands, row by row.
Compare CMA with CMPS, AMP / CMB (MBA) and CMLO (NAMP).
| Capability | CMA (Highway) | CMPS | AMP / CMB (MBA) | CMLO (NAMP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Professional designation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Time req’d | 35–50 hrs | 15–30 hrs | 50–100 hrs | 10–20 hrs |
| Online search | Yes (by name and location) | No | MBA directory | NAMP directory |
| Pricing plans | ||||
| Initial fee | $1,997 | $700–$1,000 | $1,500–$5,000 | $300–$700 |
| Renewal fee | $297 | $200–$400 | No | No |
| Key topics | ||||
| Consumer advisory | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Know why rates move | Yes | No | Partial | No |
| Economics & mortgage markets | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Fed & capital markets | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Housing market | Yes | No | No | No |
| Financing strategies | Yes | Yes | Partial | No |
| Regulations & compliance | Partial | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ongoing Content | ||||
| Member webinars | Frequent | Periodic | Regular MBA webinars | Limited |
| New content | Frequent | Limited | Periodic | Limited |
Highway product