The Financial Planning graduate certificate teaches you how to help individuals and businesses manage money, plan for the future, and make confident financial decisions. The program covers investment strategies, insurance planning, tax rules, and estate planning. You will work through real-world cases and build a complete financial plan for a client. The curriculum is designed with input from industry professionals so you graduate with the skills employers need.
Career outcomes
- Financial Advisor
- Investment Analyst
- Estate Planner
- Tax Consultant
- Wealth Manager
- Financial Services Representative
Admission requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes)
- Undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution or an equivalent credential
- Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%; international applicants must provide an English proficiency test or equivalent
- Successful completion of the provincial college application service form (domestic) or the college application form (international)
Tuition
2024–25 tuition: $4,380 per year (domestic). Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and are charged separately.
Courses
- ACCT 5280 Financial Planning Foundations
- ACCT 5300 Investment Analysis
- ACCT 5330 Estate Planning Strategies
- FINA 5100 Financial Planning Fundamentals
- FINA 5150 Insurance Planning Strategies
- FINA 5210 Investment Planning Portfolio
- FINA 5230 Taxation for Planners
- FINA 5730 Estate Planning Techniques
- FINA 5970 Financial Planning Practicum
What you will learn
You will learn how to help individuals and small businesses manage their money, plan for the future, and make confident financial decisions. The curriculum covers investment strategies, insurance planning, tax rules, and estate planning. You will work through real-world cases and build a complete financial plan for a client. Core courses like Financial Planning Foundations and Investment Analysis give you the tools to evaluate markets and advise on portfolios. You will also study insurance needs, tax implications, and estate techniques so you can guide clients through every stage of life. The Financial Planning Practicum ties everything together with a supervised project where you apply theory to actual client scenarios. You will learn how to communicate complex financial ideas clearly and ethically.
How the program runs
The program is full-time and takes one year to complete, across two to three terms. You will study at the Mercer Street Campus, located at 240 Mercer Street in downtown Wrenford. Classes are held on weekdays. You will take nine courses, including Financial Planning Fundamentals, Investment Planning Portfolio, and the Financial Planning Practicum. You will have access to the Market Square Studios for digital projects and the Falls Library & Learning Commons for research and study. The Mercer Street Campus is close to downtown transit stops and municipal parking lots, making it easy to get to class. The Accounting & Finance department office is in the Mill Building, where you can meet faculty during office hours.
Admission
To join this program, you need an undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution or an equivalent credential. You must meet the college's general admission requirements. If English is not your first language, you will need to show English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent study. The program accepts new students in September. Applications for domestic students go through the provincial college application service. International applicants use the college's own application form. You will need to submit official transcripts, proof of language ability, and a completed application. The Admissions office reviews every file carefully and notifies you of your decision through the student portal.
Tuition and fees
2024–25 tuition: $4,380 per year (domestic). Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and are charged separately. You can pay your fees online through the student portal or set up a payment plan with Student Financial Aid. Ontario student financial assistance is available for eligible students. Scholarships and bursaries are also offered each year to help reduce the cost of your education. You will receive a fee statement before each term starts. If you need help understanding your fees or applying for financial aid, call 519-555-0173.
After you graduate
Graduates are ready to work as financial advisors, investment analysts, estate planners, tax consultants, or wealth managers. You will have the skills to help clients reach their financial goals, protect their assets, and plan for retirement. The program's practicum gives you hands-on experience, making you job-ready from day one. Many graduates find work in banks, credit unions, financial planning firms, and independent practices. The Co-op & Career Services team offers career workshops, resume reviews, and networking events to help you connect with employers before you graduate.
How to apply
Start your application through the provincial college application service. You will need to upload your transcripts and any required supporting documents. Check the Admissions page for deadlines and a full list of requirements. If you have questions, call Admissions at 519-555-0171 or visit the Admissions office in Hollis Hall. You can also visit the Mercer Street Campus to see the classrooms and meet faculty.