35 Great Schools for Financial Planning
November 14, 2014 5:25 PM
35 Great Schools for Financial Planning
If you want to find the next generation of talented advisors, you may need to know which schools are educating them. The CFP Board certifies 372 educational programs, from certificates to Ph.Ds. See the 35 standout colleges, universities and other educational programs that made our list. (Click through to see the list or see a single-page version here.) -- Maddy Perkins
Photo credit: Purdue University
Photo credit: Purdue University
ALFRED STATE
Alfred, N.Y.
CFP Board-registered programs: Bachelor of business administration in financial planning
Enrollment: 31
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 2 full-time, 2 part-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: Lower-level classes capped at 20-35 students; upper-level classes at 10-20 students
Tuition: Free for all students who enter Alfred State as first-time freshmen in the fall semester and have a high school GPA of over 3.7, a 1250 combined SAT score or a 28 composite ACT score. For others: $6,170/year for full-time New York State residents; $9,780/year for nonresident freshmen/sophomores, increasing to $15,820/year for nonresident juniors/seniors.
FPA student chapter: No, but relationships with other chapters
Overview: The undergraduate program, now in its 10th year, claims a 100% placement rate for its graduates. Students must take 11 classes in financial planning subject areas, along with a broad-based business education, says the programs curriculum coordinator, ScholarFi owner Ron Rhoades. Students can also go on several optional field trips including visits to local FPA chapter functions and planning firms in western New York and trips to national financial planning conferences.
Photo credit: Alfred State
CFP Board-registered programs: Bachelor of business administration in financial planning
Enrollment: 31
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 2 full-time, 2 part-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: Lower-level classes capped at 20-35 students; upper-level classes at 10-20 students
Tuition: Free for all students who enter Alfred State as first-time freshmen in the fall semester and have a high school GPA of over 3.7, a 1250 combined SAT score or a 28 composite ACT score. For others: $6,170/year for full-time New York State residents; $9,780/year for nonresident freshmen/sophomores, increasing to $15,820/year for nonresident juniors/seniors.
FPA student chapter: No, but relationships with other chapters
Overview: The undergraduate program, now in its 10th year, claims a 100% placement rate for its graduates. Students must take 11 classes in financial planning subject areas, along with a broad-based business education, says the programs curriculum coordinator, ScholarFi owner Ron Rhoades. Students can also go on several optional field trips including visits to local FPA chapter functions and planning firms in western New York and trips to national financial planning conferences.
Photo credit: Alfred State
AMERICAN COLLEGE OF FINANCIAL SERVICES
Bryn Mawr, Pa.
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 CFP Board-registered certificate program, with online, self-study and in-person options. Also a ChFC program, accredited M.S. in financial services and Ph.D. programs in retirement and financial planning.
Enrollment: About 27,500 active students in all programs in 2013-2014
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 20 full-time, 14 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Varies by program
Tuition: 7-course flagship certificate program costs $3,947; MSFS, $1,450 per course (8 required, 2 electives, 2 residencies for a total of 12 courses), plus costs of residency requirements, admission fee and shipping; Ph.D., $3,350 per course with 14 courses; ChFC program, $5,021 total for 9 courses
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The American College boasts of being the biggest nonprofit educational institution with the highest level of academic accreditation available for financial professionals. The school offers certifications and advanced degrees only. A partner with banks, brokerage firms and insurance companies, it derives nearly 100% of its students from the field. The college also produces educational materials used to teach planners elsewhere. As the owner of the ChFC designation, the American College in July announced changes to reflect todays needs for financial planning. That program still consists of nine courses including a required capstone and six other core financial planning courses but two electives were replaced by a pair of required classes covering issues like divorce and blended families, LGBT issues and behavioral finance.
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 CFP Board-registered certificate program, with online, self-study and in-person options. Also a ChFC program, accredited M.S. in financial services and Ph.D. programs in retirement and financial planning.
Enrollment: About 27,500 active students in all programs in 2013-2014
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 20 full-time, 14 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Varies by program
Tuition: 7-course flagship certificate program costs $3,947; MSFS, $1,450 per course (8 required, 2 electives, 2 residencies for a total of 12 courses), plus costs of residency requirements, admission fee and shipping; Ph.D., $3,350 per course with 14 courses; ChFC program, $5,021 total for 9 courses
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The American College boasts of being the biggest nonprofit educational institution with the highest level of academic accreditation available for financial professionals. The school offers certifications and advanced degrees only. A partner with banks, brokerage firms and insurance companies, it derives nearly 100% of its students from the field. The college also produces educational materials used to teach planners elsewhere. As the owner of the ChFC designation, the American College in July announced changes to reflect todays needs for financial planning. That program still consists of nine courses including a required capstone and six other core financial planning courses but two electives were replaced by a pair of required classes covering issues like divorce and blended families, LGBT issues and behavioral finance.
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Boston
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 certificate programs, one online and one in person
Enrollment: 800 online, in person varies by semester
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 2 full-time, 23 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Average 15:1
Tuition: $575 per online course, full online program tuition $3,495-$5,295; $895 per classroom course; $995 for a classroom capstone course
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: BUs financial planning program is in its fourth decade of preparing professionals for careers and certification in planning. The school awards the Robert J. Glovsky Scholarships in Financial Planning in recognition of the Colony Group chairmans 25 years as director of financial planning at Boston University. Up to $2,000 in awards are granted each year and applied to the programs tuition. Application for the Glovsky scholarship is open to both online and in-person students and is intended to improve financial literacy in traditionally underserved populations.
Photo: flickr/ Praful Mathur
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 certificate programs, one online and one in person
Enrollment: 800 online, in person varies by semester
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 2 full-time, 23 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Average 15:1
Tuition: $575 per online course, full online program tuition $3,495-$5,295; $895 per classroom course; $995 for a classroom capstone course
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: BUs financial planning program is in its fourth decade of preparing professionals for careers and certification in planning. The school awards the Robert J. Glovsky Scholarships in Financial Planning in recognition of the Colony Group chairmans 25 years as director of financial planning at Boston University. Up to $2,000 in awards are granted each year and applied to the programs tuition. Application for the Glovsky scholarship is open to both online and in-person students and is intended to improve financial literacy in traditionally underserved populations.
Photo: flickr/ Praful Mathur
CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY
Thousand Oaks, Calif.
CFP Board-registered programs: Certificate, MBA
Enrollment: 57
Faculty: 4 full-time, 2 part-time, 9 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 14:1 for all online/off-site MBA programs combined t
Tuition: For MBA, $770 per credit unit; the certificate program is $1,695 per course (8 courses total)
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Cal Lutheran offers a certificate program, as well as an MBA with a focus in financial planning, with both on-campus and online tracks. This intensive boutique program tends to attract seasoned professional students most are full-time working adults, according to Cynthia Grether, the schools program manager, who says the faculty is committed to remaining flexible to accommodate students professional needs. CLU also caps class size at 20, both online and in person. The school last year created an MBA track for students who already have a CFP, offering additional planning and interdisciplinary courses.
Photo credit: California Lutheran University
CFP Board-registered programs: Certificate, MBA
Enrollment: 57
Faculty: 4 full-time, 2 part-time, 9 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 14:1 for all online/off-site MBA programs combined t
Tuition: For MBA, $770 per credit unit; the certificate program is $1,695 per course (8 courses total)
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Cal Lutheran offers a certificate program, as well as an MBA with a focus in financial planning, with both on-campus and online tracks. This intensive boutique program tends to attract seasoned professional students most are full-time working adults, according to Cynthia Grether, the schools program manager, who says the faculty is committed to remaining flexible to accommodate students professional needs. CLU also caps class size at 20, both online and in person. The school last year created an MBA track for students who already have a CFP, offering additional planning and interdisciplinary courses.
Photo credit: California Lutheran University
CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, NORTHRIDGE
Northridge, Calif.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in finance or in business administration, with a sequence in financial planning
Enrollment: 40
Faculty: 4 full-time, 2 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
Tuition: For California residents, $3,272 per semester; for nonresident students, $5,876
FPA student chapter: No, but currently in development
Overview: The school registered its two undergraduate planning programs with the CFP Board in spring 2012, with the aim of improving financial literacy in Southern California. The program aims to foster networking opportunities by hosting a popular career expo every semester and regular events to pair students with local financial planners. At the expos, small groups of students are matched with representatives from the financial planning industry, according to program director Kristine Beck, to give students a chance to learn about a wide variety of careers.
Photo credit: California State University, Northridge
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in finance or in business administration, with a sequence in financial planning
Enrollment: 40
Faculty: 4 full-time, 2 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
Tuition: For California residents, $3,272 per semester; for nonresident students, $5,876
FPA student chapter: No, but currently in development
Overview: The school registered its two undergraduate planning programs with the CFP Board in spring 2012, with the aim of improving financial literacy in Southern California. The program aims to foster networking opportunities by hosting a popular career expo every semester and regular events to pair students with local financial planners. At the expos, small groups of students are matched with representatives from the financial planning industry, according to program director Kristine Beck, to give students a chance to learn about a wide variety of careers.
Photo credit: California State University, Northridge
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
Clemson, S.C.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial management with a concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: About 20
Faculty: 5 full-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: 4:1
Tuition: For South Carolina residents, $13,446 per year, based on 2 semesters; for out-of-state residents, $31,462 a year
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The Clemson curriculum emphasizes analytical and communication skills in the financial planning profession. Students are given the opportunity to tailor courses to their needs by choosing emphasis tracks, including financial planning, financial services, corporate finance and real estate. This year, 120 students in the schools broader financial management program are participating in the Wall Street South Club, in which students manage individual portfolios and compete for the highest return.
Photo credit: Clemson University
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial management with a concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: About 20
Faculty: 5 full-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: 4:1
Tuition: For South Carolina residents, $13,446 per year, based on 2 semesters; for out-of-state residents, $31,462 a year
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The Clemson curriculum emphasizes analytical and communication skills in the financial planning profession. Students are given the opportunity to tailor courses to their needs by choosing emphasis tracks, including financial planning, financial services, corporate finance and real estate. This year, 120 students in the schools broader financial management program are participating in the Wall Street South Club, in which students manage individual portfolios and compete for the highest return.
Photo credit: Clemson University
COLLEGE FOR FINANCIAL PLANNING
Greenwood Village, Colo.
CFP Board-registered programs: M.S. in personal financial planning, flagship CFP certification program
Enrollment: 25,000 in all professional designation programs, including 5,000 in the CFP program and 500 in the masters in financial planning program
Faculty: Roughly 50: 12 full-time staff and the rest adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
Tuition: For M.S. in financial planning, $400 per 1-hour credit; for CFP certification program, $4,670.
FPA student chapter: No, because the program is primarily online but the college refers students to FPA meetings and hosts one in its Colorado offices.
Overview: The for-profit college, founded in 1972, launched at a time when there were no dedicated programs or teaching materials for planning. It offers distance learning, full-time and certificate programs. As the longest running CFP certification program, the College says it has produced more than 64,000 graduates since 1972. Subjects include retirement planning, portfolio analysis and financial analysis. The school also offers programs in FINRA licensing. As of last year, the school allows students who already have CRPC or AWMA designations to transfer credits toward the CFP program.
CFP Board-registered programs: M.S. in personal financial planning, flagship CFP certification program
Enrollment: 25,000 in all professional designation programs, including 5,000 in the CFP program and 500 in the masters in financial planning program
Faculty: Roughly 50: 12 full-time staff and the rest adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
Tuition: For M.S. in financial planning, $400 per 1-hour credit; for CFP certification program, $4,670.
FPA student chapter: No, because the program is primarily online but the college refers students to FPA meetings and hosts one in its Colorado offices.
Overview: The for-profit college, founded in 1972, launched at a time when there were no dedicated programs or teaching materials for planning. It offers distance learning, full-time and certificate programs. As the longest running CFP certification program, the College says it has produced more than 64,000 graduates since 1972. Subjects include retirement planning, portfolio analysis and financial analysis. The school also offers programs in FINRA licensing. As of last year, the school allows students who already have CRPC or AWMA designations to transfer credits toward the CFP program.
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Fort Collins, Colo.
CFP Board-registered program: B.S. in business administration with a planning option in the finance concentration
Enrollment: 80 full-time students
Faculty: 5 full-time, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 16:1
Tuition: $9,896 a year for a Colorado resident; $26,076 for out-of-state students
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Now in its fourth year, the program, based in the schools college of business, has seen enrollment double from its first year, according to director John Hopkins. Members of the FPA of Colorado mentor financial planning students creating relationships that, the school says, greatly enhance the classroom experience by introducing students to the challenges and rewards associated with the financial planning profession.
Photo Credit: Flickr Creative Commons/Rebecca Rothkopf
CFP Board-registered program: B.S. in business administration with a planning option in the finance concentration
Enrollment: 80 full-time students
Faculty: 5 full-time, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 16:1
Tuition: $9,896 a year for a Colorado resident; $26,076 for out-of-state students
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Now in its fourth year, the program, based in the schools college of business, has seen enrollment double from its first year, according to director John Hopkins. Members of the FPA of Colorado mentor financial planning students creating relationships that, the school says, greatly enhance the classroom experience by introducing students to the challenges and rewards associated with the financial planning profession.
Photo Credit: Flickr Creative Commons/Rebecca Rothkopf
DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
Chicago
CFP Board-registered programs: 9-credit certificate program offered both online and in person
Enrollment: 150 to 200
Faculty: 10 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 at downtown campus; 6:1 at suburban campus
Tuition: $5,400
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The largest Roman Catholic university in the U.S. launched its certificate program in 1999 and relies heavily on a pool of local CFPs who serve as faculty and create customized study materials. Students can supplement their in-class work by studying online. The professionally diverse student body hails from the brokerage, banking, tax, legal and compliance fields, says Moses Hudson, program manager of the universitys Financial Planning Education Center. Last year, DePaul added a course in case studies and made the financial plan development class mandatory.
Photo credit: Flickr/DePaul University
CFP Board-registered programs: 9-credit certificate program offered both online and in person
Enrollment: 150 to 200
Faculty: 10 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 at downtown campus; 6:1 at suburban campus
Tuition: $5,400
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The largest Roman Catholic university in the U.S. launched its certificate program in 1999 and relies heavily on a pool of local CFPs who serve as faculty and create customized study materials. Students can supplement their in-class work by studying online. The professionally diverse student body hails from the brokerage, banking, tax, legal and compliance fields, says Moses Hudson, program manager of the universitys Financial Planning Education Center. Last year, DePaul added a course in case studies and made the financial plan development class mandatory.
Photo credit: Flickr/DePaul University
FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY
Teaneck, N.J.
CFP Board-registered programs: Financial planning certificate course
Enrollment: 90
Faculty: 30 adjuncts in various locations
Student-to-faculty ratio: 12:1 in the classroom
Tuition: $5,995
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: One of the first U.S. institutions to offer a financial planning certificate, FDUs program dates back 29 years. The school draws from a large pool of industry professionals and program graduates for adjunct faculty, who teach courses at multiple locations. This year, the program is expanding its adjunct faculty base and building local corporate relationships in order to offer the program on-site at FDU. Students are primarily mid-career professionals already working in the planning industry, notes Valerie Barnes, the programs director, who also says they receive a substantial amount of one-on-one counseling and instruction. The school also has a popular career fair sponsored by the FPA of New Jersey. New Jersey is a great state for financial planning because we are a high income state and our residents are among the most well-educated in the country, says Barnes.
Photo credit: Fairleigh Dickinson University
CFP Board-registered programs: Financial planning certificate course
Enrollment: 90
Faculty: 30 adjuncts in various locations
Student-to-faculty ratio: 12:1 in the classroom
Tuition: $5,995
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: One of the first U.S. institutions to offer a financial planning certificate, FDUs program dates back 29 years. The school draws from a large pool of industry professionals and program graduates for adjunct faculty, who teach courses at multiple locations. This year, the program is expanding its adjunct faculty base and building local corporate relationships in order to offer the program on-site at FDU. Students are primarily mid-career professionals already working in the planning industry, notes Valerie Barnes, the programs director, who also says they receive a substantial amount of one-on-one counseling and instruction. The school also has a popular career fair sponsored by the FPA of New Jersey. New Jersey is a great state for financial planning because we are a high income state and our residents are among the most well-educated in the country, says Barnes.
Photo credit: Fairleigh Dickinson University
KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY
CFP Board-registered programs: Undergraduate, masters, Ph.D. and graduate certificate
Enrollment: 50 undergrads, 43 certificate, 47 masters and 42 doctoral students
Faculty: 9 full-time, 3 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1 at undergraduate level; 3:1 at graduate level
Tuition: For undergraduates, $274 per credit hour for a Kansas resident or $727 for out-of-state resident (plus fees); for M.S. courses, $515/credit hour; for Ph.D. courses and graduate certificate courses, $566 per credit hour.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Since registering its undergraduate degree program in planning in 1993, Kansas State has added a certificate, a masters degree and a doctorate. The school conducts considerable research on the subject of financial therapy, and students help with both data collection and analysis, says program director Sonya Britt. Qualified students can apply to be peer counselors at Powercat Financial Counseling, a university program that provides financial advice to students; student counselors work directly with KSU peers, both one-on-one and by giving group presentations. We have incredible support from the administration, says Britt. Our dean has continued to put resources into our program and is committed to seeing the program grow and develop.
Photo credit: Kansas State University Division of Communications and Marketing
Enrollment: 50 undergrads, 43 certificate, 47 masters and 42 doctoral students
Faculty: 9 full-time, 3 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1 at undergraduate level; 3:1 at graduate level
Tuition: For undergraduates, $274 per credit hour for a Kansas resident or $727 for out-of-state resident (plus fees); for M.S. courses, $515/credit hour; for Ph.D. courses and graduate certificate courses, $566 per credit hour.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Since registering its undergraduate degree program in planning in 1993, Kansas State has added a certificate, a masters degree and a doctorate. The school conducts considerable research on the subject of financial therapy, and students help with both data collection and analysis, says program director Sonya Britt. Qualified students can apply to be peer counselors at Powercat Financial Counseling, a university program that provides financial advice to students; student counselors work directly with KSU peers, both one-on-one and by giving group presentations. We have incredible support from the administration, says Britt. Our dean has continued to put resources into our program and is committed to seeing the program grow and develop.
Photo credit: Kansas State University Division of Communications and Marketing
KAPLAN UNIVERSITY
Online with classrooms in New York and San Francisco, as well as several private corporate programs.
CFP Board-registered programs: Self-paced and accelerated online programs and an M.S. in finance
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 8 full-time, 26 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Varies based on program
Tuition: Accelerated program $749 per course; self-study $549 per course; M.S. in finance, $441 per credit hour
FPA student chapter: Kaplan is an institutional member.
Overview: A big name in education and for-profit test preparation, Kaplan is home to a decade-old program that crosses boundaries between traditional classroom and online study, letting students customize study tracks to suit their schedules. The school also boasts of its large team of academic advisors, who aim to reach out to all students at least 70 times during their course of study, helping them complete work on time and excel academically. The school partners with 16 other universities, providing books and materials for their programs. Kaplan also runs planning programs and on-site training at many corporations and call centers throughout the U.S., according to Joyce Schnur, vice president of the financial services program.
CFP Board-registered programs: Self-paced and accelerated online programs and an M.S. in finance
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 8 full-time, 26 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Varies based on program
Tuition: Accelerated program $749 per course; self-study $549 per course; M.S. in finance, $441 per credit hour
FPA student chapter: Kaplan is an institutional member.
Overview: A big name in education and for-profit test preparation, Kaplan is home to a decade-old program that crosses boundaries between traditional classroom and online study, letting students customize study tracks to suit their schedules. The school also boasts of its large team of academic advisors, who aim to reach out to all students at least 70 times during their course of study, helping them complete work on time and excel academically. The school partners with 16 other universities, providing books and materials for their programs. Kaplan also runs planning programs and on-site training at many corporations and call centers throughout the U.S., according to Joyce Schnur, vice president of the financial services program.
LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY
Baton Rouge, La.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. and M.S. in finance, MBA and Ph.D. in business administration, all with financial planning specialization, plus online certificate and executive certificate programs in financial planning
Enrollment: 54 degree program students
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 12
Student-to-faculty ratio: 23:1 in the classroom
Tuition: $8,750 for Louisiana residents; out-of-state students, $26,467; online certificate, $3,095-$7,700
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: LSUs four undergraduate programs, along with the MBA, Ph.D., and self-paced and instructor-led certificate programs were registered with the CFP Board this year. The programs tap a diverse advisory board of industry leaders responsible for organizing networking events; the school also has a strong relationship with Louisiana chapters of the FPA. Support from the business community has provided LSU with numerous internship and job opportunities for students. The university also makes scholarships available to cover the CFP exam and review course fees.
Photo credit: Flickr/Brad Armentor
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. and M.S. in finance, MBA and Ph.D. in business administration, all with financial planning specialization, plus online certificate and executive certificate programs in financial planning
Enrollment: 54 degree program students
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 12
Student-to-faculty ratio: 23:1 in the classroom
Tuition: $8,750 for Louisiana residents; out-of-state students, $26,467; online certificate, $3,095-$7,700
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: LSUs four undergraduate programs, along with the MBA, Ph.D., and self-paced and instructor-led certificate programs were registered with the CFP Board this year. The programs tap a diverse advisory board of industry leaders responsible for organizing networking events; the school also has a strong relationship with Louisiana chapters of the FPA. Support from the business community has provided LSU with numerous internship and job opportunities for students. The university also makes scholarships available to cover the CFP exam and review course fees.
Photo credit: Flickr/Brad Armentor
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
New York
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 certificate, 1 classroom program (in traditional and accelerated formats), and 2 web-delivered programs (self-paced and live); all offered in partnership with Dalton education
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 10 in-class adjunct instructors; 8 online instructors.
Student-to-faculty ratio: 13:1 in classroom
Tuition: $5,590 for traditional classroom program; $5,650-$7,700 for a live online course; $3,095-$4,695 for self-paced online
FPA student chapter: No, but students can become a member of the FPA through the NYU-FPANY Scholarship for actively enrolled CFP students at a discounted rate.
Overview: NYUs certificate program offers students the flexibility to complete coursework three ways in person, live online and led by an instructor, or self-paced online. Geared toward professionals and college graduates, the program leverages NYUs geographic advantage, offering students opportunities to work with companies in the city.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Benjamin KRAFT
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 certificate, 1 classroom program (in traditional and accelerated formats), and 2 web-delivered programs (self-paced and live); all offered in partnership with Dalton education
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 10 in-class adjunct instructors; 8 online instructors.
Student-to-faculty ratio: 13:1 in classroom
Tuition: $5,590 for traditional classroom program; $5,650-$7,700 for a live online course; $3,095-$4,695 for self-paced online
FPA student chapter: No, but students can become a member of the FPA through the NYU-FPANY Scholarship for actively enrolled CFP students at a discounted rate.
Overview: NYUs certificate program offers students the flexibility to complete coursework three ways in person, live online and led by an instructor, or self-paced online. Geared toward professionals and college graduates, the program leverages NYUs geographic advantage, offering students opportunities to work with companies in the city.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Benjamin KRAFT
NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
Chicago and Evanston, Ill.
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 online and 1 classroom certificate programs
Enrollment: 150 across all programs
Faculty: About 30 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: About 5:1 overall
Tuition: $2,000 - $8,000, depending on the program
FPA student chapter: No, but the Chicago FPA chapter invites Northwestern to attend.
Overview: The Northwestern certificate program, offered both online and in a classroom, is designed to fit the needs of all students, from career changers to longtime planning professionals. Following a program overhaul in 2013, the classes are designed to simulate a planners daily life. Participants who pass all required courses will have a certificate of completion from Northwestern University, which they can proudly display on their wall and share with their clients, says Adam Kashuba, director of professional development at Northwestern University School of Professional Studies.
Photo credit: Flickr/Eric Fredericks
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 online and 1 classroom certificate programs
Enrollment: 150 across all programs
Faculty: About 30 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: About 5:1 overall
Tuition: $2,000 - $8,000, depending on the program
FPA student chapter: No, but the Chicago FPA chapter invites Northwestern to attend.
Overview: The Northwestern certificate program, offered both online and in a classroom, is designed to fit the needs of all students, from career changers to longtime planning professionals. Following a program overhaul in 2013, the classes are designed to simulate a planners daily life. Participants who pass all required courses will have a certificate of completion from Northwestern University, which they can proudly display on their wall and share with their clients, says Adam Kashuba, director of professional development at Northwestern University School of Professional Studies.
Photo credit: Flickr/Eric Fredericks
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
Columbus, Ohio
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in consumer and family financial services with track in financial planning
Enrollment: 88
Faculty: 7 full-time, 4 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
Tuition: Ohio-resident undergraduates, $5,108 per semester (for 12 hours); out-of-state undergraduates $13,358 per semester
FPA student chapter: No, but the student financial planning club meets every other week.
Overview: The financial planning track, part of a consumer and family financial services major, has an emphasis on family financial management. Subjects include general financial planning, insurance, credit, savings, investment instruments to reach financial goals, and retirement and estate planning. Courses are taught by both faculty and industry professionals, says program chairman Sherman Hanna. The student financial planning club features outside speakers and panels on topics including financial services careers, industry compensation models, CFP exam preparation, licensing, interviewing and résumé preparation.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Robert Patton
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in consumer and family financial services with track in financial planning
Enrollment: 88
Faculty: 7 full-time, 4 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
Tuition: Ohio-resident undergraduates, $5,108 per semester (for 12 hours); out-of-state undergraduates $13,358 per semester
FPA student chapter: No, but the student financial planning club meets every other week.
Overview: The financial planning track, part of a consumer and family financial services major, has an emphasis on family financial management. Subjects include general financial planning, insurance, credit, savings, investment instruments to reach financial goals, and retirement and estate planning. Courses are taught by both faculty and industry professionals, says program chairman Sherman Hanna. The student financial planning club features outside speakers and panels on topics including financial services careers, industry compensation models, CFP exam preparation, licensing, interviewing and résumé preparation.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Robert Patton
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
West Lafayette, Ind.
CFP Board-registered programs: Undergraduate
Enrollment: 125
Faculty: 7 full-time, 7 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
Tuition: Indiana residents, $20,000 a year, including room, board and other expenses; $40,000 a year for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: No, but Purdue has its own student-run financial planning club.
Overview: Purdues undergraduate financial counseling and planning program shares resources with Purdues Center for Professional Selling; financial planning students are given the opportunity to participate in center activities, gaining firsthand experience building relationships with industry representatives. Although theres no FPA chapter, the student-run Purdue Collegiate Financial Planning Club hosts competitions, speaker events and tours of Chicagos financial district. Students and faculty also frequently attend FPA meetings and seminars.
Photo credit: Purdue University
CFP Board-registered programs: Undergraduate
Enrollment: 125
Faculty: 7 full-time, 7 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
Tuition: Indiana residents, $20,000 a year, including room, board and other expenses; $40,000 a year for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: No, but Purdue has its own student-run financial planning club.
Overview: Purdues undergraduate financial counseling and planning program shares resources with Purdues Center for Professional Selling; financial planning students are given the opportunity to participate in center activities, gaining firsthand experience building relationships with industry representatives. Although theres no FPA chapter, the student-run Purdue Collegiate Financial Planning Club hosts competitions, speaker events and tours of Chicagos financial district. Students and faculty also frequently attend FPA meetings and seminars.
Photo credit: Purdue University
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY
San Diego
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S., B.A. in financial services; credit certificate in personal financial planning; M.S., B.A. in financial and tax planning, and executive financial planning advanced certificate, which is the first half of the masters degree.
Enrollment: In bachelors programs, 93 in financial services and 739 in finance; 14 in masters, 26 in executive programs
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 15 for bachelors and masters programs; 5 for executive
Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
Tuition: In-state undergraduates pay $3,433 per semester; nonresident undergrads, $9,013 per semester. For masters, $5,590 resident, $8,530 nonresident (based on 12-unit load). For executive advanced graduate certificate, $7,416.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The oldest continuously operating planning program in the country resides in the finance department of the business school. The graduate degree allows specialization in either wealth management or tax planning. We believe that having our programs fully integrated into our business school curriculum is a substantial advantage for our students, says Tom Warschauer, the programs longtime director. The programs were the countrys first to be offered by a school certified by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; all courses are for credit. The program uses its alumni network to help with graduate placement.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Matt Johnson
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S., B.A. in financial services; credit certificate in personal financial planning; M.S., B.A. in financial and tax planning, and executive financial planning advanced certificate, which is the first half of the masters degree.
Enrollment: In bachelors programs, 93 in financial services and 739 in finance; 14 in masters, 26 in executive programs
Faculty (full-time and adjunct): 15 for bachelors and masters programs; 5 for executive
Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
Tuition: In-state undergraduates pay $3,433 per semester; nonresident undergrads, $9,013 per semester. For masters, $5,590 resident, $8,530 nonresident (based on 12-unit load). For executive advanced graduate certificate, $7,416.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The oldest continuously operating planning program in the country resides in the finance department of the business school. The graduate degree allows specialization in either wealth management or tax planning. We believe that having our programs fully integrated into our business school curriculum is a substantial advantage for our students, says Tom Warschauer, the programs longtime director. The programs were the countrys first to be offered by a school certified by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; all courses are for credit. The program uses its alumni network to help with graduate placement.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Matt Johnson
SUFFOLK UNIVERSITY
Boston
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S.B.A. with concentration in financial planning, CFP certificate programs
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 13 full-time finance professors
Student-to-faculty ratio: N/A
Tuition: Varies based on credit hours: $16,265 per semester for full-time undergraduates (12-17 credits); $1,068 per course for the certificate program
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The Sawyer Business School at Suffolk offers a bachelors of science in business administration with a financial planning concentration, intended to prepare students to analyze and advise on all aspects of financial life. Subjects include investment management, retirement and estate planning, insurance planning and income tax management. The business school also offers a non-degree, eight-course certificate program aimed at working professionals.
Photo: Suffolk University
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S.B.A. with concentration in financial planning, CFP certificate programs
Enrollment: N/A
Faculty: 13 full-time finance professors
Student-to-faculty ratio: N/A
Tuition: Varies based on credit hours: $16,265 per semester for full-time undergraduates (12-17 credits); $1,068 per course for the certificate program
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The Sawyer Business School at Suffolk offers a bachelors of science in business administration with a financial planning concentration, intended to prepare students to analyze and advise on all aspects of financial life. Subjects include investment management, retirement and estate planning, insurance planning and income tax management. The business school also offers a non-degree, eight-course certificate program aimed at working professionals.
Photo: Suffolk University
TEXAS A&M
College Station, Texas
CFP Board-registered programs: Extended learning certificate in financial planning; minor currently in approval process
Enrollment: 59
Faculty: 4
Student-to-faculty ratio: 59:4
Tuition: For academic credit, $4,621 tuition & fees per semester; for extended learning credit, $525 per course
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The financial planning program at Texas A&M is taught by a team that includes both academic professors and planning profesionals. Emphasis is placed on practical knowledge and financial planning concepts, as well as training in the fields latest software. Courses are offered both online and in-person.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Stuart Seeger
CFP Board-registered programs: Extended learning certificate in financial planning; minor currently in approval process
Enrollment: 59
Faculty: 4
Student-to-faculty ratio: 59:4
Tuition: For academic credit, $4,621 tuition & fees per semester; for extended learning credit, $525 per course
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The financial planning program at Texas A&M is taught by a team that includes both academic professors and planning profesionals. Emphasis is placed on practical knowledge and financial planning concepts, as well as training in the fields latest software. Courses are offered both online and in-person.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Stuart Seeger
TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY
Lubbock, Texas
CFP Board-registered programs: 10 programs, ranging from undergraduate to Ph.D., including minors and dual graduate degrees in planning and business or law, and one certificate. The new executive delivery M.S. and certificate are pending CFP Board registration.
Enrollment: 117 planning undergraduate majors, 6 undergraduate minors (studies in personal finance), 70 masters students in personal financial planning (including dual degrees with law, MBAs, accounting and finance) and 42 Ph.D. students
Faculty: 12 full-time, 2 directors, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Roughly 21:1
Tuition and required fees: Texas resident undergraduates, $4,804 per semester;out-of-state undergraduates, $10,234; Texas resident graduate students, $3,992 per semester; out-of-state graduate students, $7,612
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Texas Tech was the second university in the nation to give the planning program departmental status, and has seen tremendous growth. The school hosts annual Opportunity Days where financial planning firms from across the United States come to campus for three days of interviewing students for internships and jobs. Graduates of the Texas Tech PFP program are currently faculty at 18 different college and university financial planning programs.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Texas Tech University Student Housing
CFP Board-registered programs: 10 programs, ranging from undergraduate to Ph.D., including minors and dual graduate degrees in planning and business or law, and one certificate. The new executive delivery M.S. and certificate are pending CFP Board registration.
Enrollment: 117 planning undergraduate majors, 6 undergraduate minors (studies in personal finance), 70 masters students in personal financial planning (including dual degrees with law, MBAs, accounting and finance) and 42 Ph.D. students
Faculty: 12 full-time, 2 directors, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: Roughly 21:1
Tuition and required fees: Texas resident undergraduates, $4,804 per semester;out-of-state undergraduates, $10,234; Texas resident graduate students, $3,992 per semester; out-of-state graduate students, $7,612
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Texas Tech was the second university in the nation to give the planning program departmental status, and has seen tremendous growth. The school hosts annual Opportunity Days where financial planning firms from across the United States come to campus for three days of interviewing students for internships and jobs. Graduates of the Texas Tech PFP program are currently faculty at 18 different college and university financial planning programs.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Texas Tech University Student Housing
UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
Akron, Ohio
CFP Board-registered programs: B.B.A. or minor in financial planning, certificate program. A dual degree program with a B.B.A. in financial planning and B.S. in accounting will be offered in the fall.
Enrollment: 2,173 undergraduate, 470 graduate, 35 certificate students
Faculty: 7 full-time, 4 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 21:1 for undergraduates
Tuition: Varies based on credit hours
Overview: University of Akrons B.S. in financial planning consists of seven courses and a capstone intended to provide both practical experience and prepare students for the CFP exam. A team representing the school won the student Financial Planning Challenge at this years annual FPA BE Conference in Seattle.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Jim Reynolds
CFP Board-registered programs: B.B.A. or minor in financial planning, certificate program. A dual degree program with a B.B.A. in financial planning and B.S. in accounting will be offered in the fall.
Enrollment: 2,173 undergraduate, 470 graduate, 35 certificate students
Faculty: 7 full-time, 4 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 21:1 for undergraduates
Tuition: Varies based on credit hours
Overview: University of Akrons B.S. in financial planning consists of seven courses and a capstone intended to provide both practical experience and prepare students for the CFP exam. A team representing the school won the student Financial Planning Challenge at this years annual FPA BE Conference in Seattle.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Jim Reynolds
UC BERKELEY
Berkeley, Calif.
CFP Board-registered programs: Certificate (in person)
Enrollment: 77
Faculty: 15 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
Tuition: $7,300
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The CFP-registered certificate program includes 18 semester units taught in a classroom setting. The introductory course also is offered online. This past spring, the program started launching several accelerated classroom courses, which the school says will let some students complete the program in just 10 to 12 months. The program is overseen by an industry advisory board which also coordinates scholarships, internships and employment opportunities and courses are taught by working professionals. The program also provides networking opportunities through an annual awards event, a career and networking event, and other activities arranged by an active student advisory board.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Joyce Pedersen
CFP Board-registered programs: Certificate (in person)
Enrollment: 77
Faculty: 15 adjuncts
Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
Tuition: $7,300
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The CFP-registered certificate program includes 18 semester units taught in a classroom setting. The introductory course also is offered online. This past spring, the program started launching several accelerated classroom courses, which the school says will let some students complete the program in just 10 to 12 months. The program is overseen by an industry advisory board which also coordinates scholarships, internships and employment opportunities and courses are taught by working professionals. The program also provides networking opportunities through an annual awards event, a career and networking event, and other activities arranged by an active student advisory board.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Joyce Pedersen
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE
Irvine, Calif.
CFP Board-registered programs: On-campus and online certificate programs
Enrollment: 200
Faculty: 20 practitioners
Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1
Tuition: $650 per course
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: As is true at many other UC programs, students who complete the financial planning certificate are eligible to transfer credits into the MBA in planning at Cal Lutheran University. In addition to the eight required courses for the certificate, the program offers non-certificate courses, including an internship and instruction on building a planning firm.
Photo credit: University of California, Irvine
CFP Board-registered programs: On-campus and online certificate programs
Enrollment: 200
Faculty: 20 practitioners
Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1
Tuition: $650 per course
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: As is true at many other UC programs, students who complete the financial planning certificate are eligible to transfer credits into the MBA in planning at Cal Lutheran University. In addition to the eight required courses for the certificate, the program offers non-certificate courses, including an internship and instruction on building a planning firm.
Photo credit: University of California, Irvine
UCLA
Los Angeles
CFP Board-registered programs: Traditional evening/online program and accelerated hybrid
Enrollment: 250 to 300 students annually
Faculty: 20 adjunct instructors
Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1 for traditional evening/online; 15:1 for accelerated hybrid
Tuition: $4,155 to $4,675, depending on program format; $1,000 for CFP exam review
FPA student chapter: Yes. The program launched the FPA LA New Professionals Group.
Overview: UCLA Extension has worked to better connect with the local business community. The FPA chapter is linked with the Los Angeles FPA chapter, helping students connect with professionals. The schools two CFP Board-registered certificate programs are designed for students and professionals who are preparing for careers in financial planning and pursuing the CFP designation. UCLA Extension works closely with industry experts, advisory board members, the CFP Board and professional associations to keep the curriculum relevant to current trends and practices, says program director Rich Burnes. It expanded its advisory board this year to include both instructors and professional planners a change designed to guide the program academically as well as [provide] outreach to the business community, Burnes says. Next year, UCLA plans to shift its accelerated hybrid to an online program, with live sessions along with self-paced study.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Chris Radcliff
CFP Board-registered programs: Traditional evening/online program and accelerated hybrid
Enrollment: 250 to 300 students annually
Faculty: 20 adjunct instructors
Student-to-faculty ratio: 20:1 for traditional evening/online; 15:1 for accelerated hybrid
Tuition: $4,155 to $4,675, depending on program format; $1,000 for CFP exam review
FPA student chapter: Yes. The program launched the FPA LA New Professionals Group.
Overview: UCLA Extension has worked to better connect with the local business community. The FPA chapter is linked with the Los Angeles FPA chapter, helping students connect with professionals. The schools two CFP Board-registered certificate programs are designed for students and professionals who are preparing for careers in financial planning and pursuing the CFP designation. UCLA Extension works closely with industry experts, advisory board members, the CFP Board and professional associations to keep the curriculum relevant to current trends and practices, says program director Rich Burnes. It expanded its advisory board this year to include both instructors and professional planners a change designed to guide the program academically as well as [provide] outreach to the business community, Burnes says. Next year, UCLA plans to shift its accelerated hybrid to an online program, with live sessions along with self-paced study.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Chris Radcliff
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Gainesville, Fla.
CFP Board-registered programs: Online certificate program, in-class certificate aimed at students also completing an undergraduate degree, in-class certificate for masters or doctoral students and an online noncredit graduate certificate
Enrollment: 15 undergraduate, 5 graduate
Faculty: 2 full-time, 1 adjunct
Students-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
Tuition: Undergraduate certificate, $3,000; graduate-level certificate and online certificates, $9,750; noncredit graduate certificate, $6,000
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The masters program in planning is taught in a virtual classroom that makes use of new technology. Zywave donated planning software NaviPlan, providing students tools to learn how to manage personal financial risk.
Photo credit: UF/IFAS
CFP Board-registered programs: Online certificate program, in-class certificate aimed at students also completing an undergraduate degree, in-class certificate for masters or doctoral students and an online noncredit graduate certificate
Enrollment: 15 undergraduate, 5 graduate
Faculty: 2 full-time, 1 adjunct
Students-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
Tuition: Undergraduate certificate, $3,000; graduate-level certificate and online certificates, $9,750; noncredit graduate certificate, $6,000
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The masters program in planning is taught in a virtual classroom that makes use of new technology. Zywave donated planning software NaviPlan, providing students tools to learn how to manage personal financial risk.
Photo credit: UF/IFAS
UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
Athens, Ga.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning or B.S. in family and consumer sciences or housing and consumer economics with a concentration in financial planning; M.S. in financial planning; Ph.D. in family and consumer sciences or housing and consumer economics with a concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: 78 undergraduate financial planning majors, 41 graduate students in the Financial Planning, Housing and Consumer Economics Department with emphasis in financial planning
Faculty: 5 full-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 for undergraduate
Tuition: In-state undergraduate tuition per semester is $4,295; out-of-state undergraduate tuition per semester is $13,400. Graduate tuition varies based on credit hours.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The program has been registered with the CFP Board for over a decade. Part of the Financial Planning, Housing and Consumer Economics Department, the program teaches students in an interdisciplinary environment that includes work in the community. Students can work in the schools ASPIRE clinic alongside law and family therapy students, providing financial counseling.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Josh Hallett
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning or B.S. in family and consumer sciences or housing and consumer economics with a concentration in financial planning; M.S. in financial planning; Ph.D. in family and consumer sciences or housing and consumer economics with a concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: 78 undergraduate financial planning majors, 41 graduate students in the Financial Planning, Housing and Consumer Economics Department with emphasis in financial planning
Faculty: 5 full-time
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 for undergraduate
Tuition: In-state undergraduate tuition per semester is $4,295; out-of-state undergraduate tuition per semester is $13,400. Graduate tuition varies based on credit hours.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The program has been registered with the CFP Board for over a decade. Part of the Financial Planning, Housing and Consumer Economics Department, the program teaches students in an interdisciplinary environment that includes work in the community. Students can work in the schools ASPIRE clinic alongside law and family therapy students, providing financial counseling.
Photo credit: Flickr/ Josh Hallett
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
Champaign, Ill.
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 undergraduate degree
Enrollment: 90
Faculty: 28 full-time (in the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics)
Student-to-faculty ratio: 24:1
Tuition: 16,000 for state residents 31,000 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The planning program, which launched in 2009, is thriving. The department is currently working with the CFP Board to introduce a series of free online courses to educate the public on the basics of planning.
Photo credit: David Riecks, University of Illinois
CFP Board-registered programs: 1 undergraduate degree
Enrollment: 90
Faculty: 28 full-time (in the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics)
Student-to-faculty ratio: 24:1
Tuition: 16,000 for state residents 31,000 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The planning program, which launched in 2009, is thriving. The department is currently working with the CFP Board to introduce a series of free online courses to educate the public on the basics of planning.
Photo credit: David Riecks, University of Illinois
UNIVERSITY OF THE INCARNATE WORD
San Antonio
CFP Board-registered programs: Bachelors of business administration with concentration in planning
Enrollment: 60
Faculty: 3 full-time, 2 adjuncts
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Tuition: $12,450 per semester
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Now in its fourth year, the program emphasizes the importance of faculty mentorship, student internships and networking with local FPA members. The school opened a brand new state-of-the-art finance lab this summer, featuring 32 stations with industry standard software. There is no on-campus FPA chapter, but most of the financial planning students are involved with the business club, says Alicia Rodriguez de Rubio, financial planning program director.
Photo credit: University of the Incarnate Word
CFP Board-registered programs: Bachelors of business administration with concentration in planning
Enrollment: 60
Faculty: 3 full-time, 2 adjuncts
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Tuition: $12,450 per semester
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: Now in its fourth year, the program emphasizes the importance of faculty mentorship, student internships and networking with local FPA members. The school opened a brand new state-of-the-art finance lab this summer, featuring 32 stations with industry standard software. There is no on-campus FPA chapter, but most of the financial planning students are involved with the business club, says Alicia Rodriguez de Rubio, financial planning program director.
Photo credit: University of the Incarnate Word
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI
Columbia, Mo.
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 online (M.S. and certificate, through Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance membership) and 5 on-site: B.S. in human environmental sciences with emphasis in personal financial planning; M.S. or Ph.D. in personal financial planning; post-baccalaureate certificate; and an undergraduate certificate (for which CFP Board approval is pending)
Enrollment: 124 undergraduate, 43 graduate
Faculty: 7.75 full-time equivalent: 4 tenured or tenure track, 0.75 teaching and advising, 1 counseling center director and 2 extension faculty
Student-to-faculty ratio: 42:1 tenure-track faculty;
22:1, including other faculty
Tuition: For undergraduates, $10,286 for residents ($274 per credit hour) and $24,312 for nonresidents ($775 per credit hour). Graduate students: $347 per credit for residents, $910 for nonresidents. Special pricing of $515 per credit hour for Great Plains IDEA graduate students. Full-time undergraduate students take a minimum of 12 credits per semester; full-time graduate students take a minimum of 9 credits.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The school is home to the oldest departmental-level personal financial planning program in the country. It offers a certificate track at both the undergraduate (with CFP Board approval pending) and graduate levels, as well as several degree tracks, including a Ph.D. The program now offers certificate programs available to all other majors on campus. If we want more CFPs coming out at the bottom of the funnel, we need to find ways to put more students in at the top, says department chairman Rob Weagley.
Photo credit: Rob Weagley/University of Missouri
CFP Board-registered programs: 2 online (M.S. and certificate, through Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance membership) and 5 on-site: B.S. in human environmental sciences with emphasis in personal financial planning; M.S. or Ph.D. in personal financial planning; post-baccalaureate certificate; and an undergraduate certificate (for which CFP Board approval is pending)
Enrollment: 124 undergraduate, 43 graduate
Faculty: 7.75 full-time equivalent: 4 tenured or tenure track, 0.75 teaching and advising, 1 counseling center director and 2 extension faculty
Student-to-faculty ratio: 42:1 tenure-track faculty;
22:1, including other faculty
Tuition: For undergraduates, $10,286 for residents ($274 per credit hour) and $24,312 for nonresidents ($775 per credit hour). Graduate students: $347 per credit for residents, $910 for nonresidents. Special pricing of $515 per credit hour for Great Plains IDEA graduate students. Full-time undergraduate students take a minimum of 12 credits per semester; full-time graduate students take a minimum of 9 credits.
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The school is home to the oldest departmental-level personal financial planning program in the country. It offers a certificate track at both the undergraduate (with CFP Board approval pending) and graduate levels, as well as several degree tracks, including a Ph.D. The program now offers certificate programs available to all other majors on campus. If we want more CFPs coming out at the bottom of the funnel, we need to find ways to put more students in at the top, says department chairman Rob Weagley.
Photo credit: Rob Weagley/University of Missouri
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
Madison, Wis.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in personal finance; the Wisconsin School of Business is piloting a new B.B.A. in wealth management and financial planning that aims to launch fully in 2015.
Enrollment: 123 majors
Faculty: 6 full-time, 75 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 19:1
Tuition: Undergraduate $10,410 for residents; $26,660 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The program, registered with the CFP Board in 1995, is housed in the School of Human Ecology. In addition to the educational requirements of the CFP Board, students ... gain a broad understanding of the economic, political and social contexts in which individuals and familys financial decisions are made, says program director Robert McCalla. Since 2009, he says, the CFP exam pass rate has topped 80%, well above the national average, while more than 80% of graduates report being employed in financial services. The universitys business school has also kicked off a new B.B.A. program in wealth management (see sidebar on page 55).
Photo credit: Flickr/Joshua Mayer
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in personal finance; the Wisconsin School of Business is piloting a new B.B.A. in wealth management and financial planning that aims to launch fully in 2015.
Enrollment: 123 majors
Faculty: 6 full-time, 75 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 19:1
Tuition: Undergraduate $10,410 for residents; $26,660 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: No
Overview: The program, registered with the CFP Board in 1995, is housed in the School of Human Ecology. In addition to the educational requirements of the CFP Board, students ... gain a broad understanding of the economic, political and social contexts in which individuals and familys financial decisions are made, says program director Robert McCalla. Since 2009, he says, the CFP exam pass rate has topped 80%, well above the national average, while more than 80% of graduates report being employed in financial services. The universitys business school has also kicked off a new B.B.A. program in wealth management (see sidebar on page 55).
Photo credit: Flickr/Joshua Mayer
UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY
Orem, Utah
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning; 2 online certificate programs
Enrollment: 140
Faculty: 5 full-time, 2 executives-in-residence
Student-to-faculty ratio: Average class size is 23.
Tuition: $2,635 per semester, $5,270 per year for Utah residents; $7,401 per semester, $14,802 per year out-of-state, $7,000 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The personal financial planning major is located in an AACSB accredited business school, with a core curriculum consisting of 13 courses in personal financial planning. Students are required to complete a paid internship. The program has the option of additional tracks in sales and entrepreneurship, as well as a dual major in accounting and financial planning.
Photo credit: Utah Valley University.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning; 2 online certificate programs
Enrollment: 140
Faculty: 5 full-time, 2 executives-in-residence
Student-to-faculty ratio: Average class size is 23.
Tuition: $2,635 per semester, $5,270 per year for Utah residents; $7,401 per semester, $14,802 per year out-of-state, $7,000 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The personal financial planning major is located in an AACSB accredited business school, with a core curriculum consisting of 13 courses in personal financial planning. Students are required to complete a paid internship. The program has the option of additional tracks in sales and entrepreneurship, as well as a dual major in accounting and financial planning.
Photo credit: Utah Valley University.
VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
Richmond, Va.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in business with concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: About 30
Faculty: 7
Student-to-faculty ratio: 40:1 departmentwide
Tuition: Approximately $9,700/year; varies depending on program
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The undergraduate programs active student FPA chapter was the second in the United States to be recognized by the FPA, says John McFarland, coordinator of the financial planning track. The chapter facilitates meetings with guest speakers from the local planning community, visits to local firms, mock interviews and public service activities.
Photo credit: Flickr/ VCU Libraries
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in business with concentration in financial planning
Enrollment: About 30
Faculty: 7
Student-to-faculty ratio: 40:1 departmentwide
Tuition: Approximately $9,700/year; varies depending on program
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The undergraduate programs active student FPA chapter was the second in the United States to be recognized by the FPA, says John McFarland, coordinator of the financial planning track. The chapter facilitates meetings with guest speakers from the local planning community, visits to local firms, mock interviews and public service activities.
Photo credit: Flickr/ VCU Libraries
VIRGINIA TECH UNIVERSITY
Blacksburg, Va.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in applied economic management, B.S. in finance
Enrollment: 125 combined
Faculty: 8 full-time, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
Tuition: $5,044 per semester for state residents; $12,757 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Since the registration of the two B.S. programs in 2007 (an earlier program was registered from 1997-2007), the number of students has stabilized at about 125. The school facilitates student travel to conferences and encourages engagement with professional organizations and firms. The program also compiles a list of planning students and alumni to help place students in both internships and full-time positions. Students are encouraged to participate in several on- and off-campus financial education initiatives and competitions, including the FPA Financial Planning Challenge.
Photo credit: Virginia Tech
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in applied economic management, B.S. in finance
Enrollment: 125 combined
Faculty: 8 full-time, 1 adjunct
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
Tuition: $5,044 per semester for state residents; $12,757 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: Since the registration of the two B.S. programs in 2007 (an earlier program was registered from 1997-2007), the number of students has stabilized at about 125. The school facilitates student travel to conferences and encourages engagement with professional organizations and firms. The program also compiles a list of planning students and alumni to help place students in both internships and full-time positions. Students are encouraged to participate in several on- and off-campus financial education initiatives and competitions, including the FPA Financial Planning Challenge.
Photo credit: Virginia Tech
WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY
Wayne, N.J.
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning, accelerated certificate program
Enrollment: 102 financial planning majors
Faculty: 2 full-time, 8 adjuncts (all adjuncts are planners)
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 universitywide
Tuition: $12,244 per year for N.J. residents; $19,920 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The program has landed in the top three in several competitions in its five years of existence, including twice at FPAs National Financial Planning Challenge. Its full-time undergraduate program has a diverse student body, with 50% minorities and 35% women. In addition to the B.S. degree, the university offers a certificate program for working executives. Students also have access to courses in one of the nations only degree programs in professional sales. A fast-growing niche at the school is a dual degree in planning and accounting. t FP
Photo credit: William Paterson University
CFP Board-registered programs: B.S. in financial planning, accelerated certificate program
Enrollment: 102 financial planning majors
Faculty: 2 full-time, 8 adjuncts (all adjuncts are planners)
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1 universitywide
Tuition: $12,244 per year for N.J. residents; $19,920 for nonresidents
FPA student chapter: Yes
Overview: The program has landed in the top three in several competitions in its five years of existence, including twice at FPAs National Financial Planning Challenge. Its full-time undergraduate program has a diverse student body, with 50% minorities and 35% women. In addition to the B.S. degree, the university offers a certificate program for working executives. Students also have access to courses in one of the nations only degree programs in professional sales. A fast-growing niche at the school is a dual degree in planning and accounting. t FP
Photo credit: William Paterson University
