Online Financial Planning Degrees

The world of financial planning is growing, and with the increasing demand for qualified professionals to navigate the complexities of personal finance, investments, tax strategies, and estate planning, numerous universities have developed innovative online and distance learning programs in financial planning. These programs provide students with the flexibility to pursue their degrees while maintaining their professional careers or managing other responsibilities. Several universities offer specialized online degrees and certifications in financial planning, making it easier for aspiring financial planners and those looking to further their careers in the field to achieve their educational goals. Below is a detailed look at some of the top universities offering online or distance learning financial planning degree programs and courses.

California Lutheran University (CLU) stands out as a top choice for individuals interested in pursuing an MBA in Financial Planning. CLU’s online MBA in Financial Planning is designed with the working professional in mind, offering an accelerated format that allows candidates to complete the program in less than two years if desired. The program is aimed at those looking to combine advanced business administration skills with financial planning expertise. In addition to the MBA-Financial Planning program, CLU offers a certificate-only program for candidates aiming to obtain the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. This certificate program provides students with the necessary courses and training to meet the CFP certification requirements, and it is registered with the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) in Denver, Colorado, ensuring the program meets the highest industry standards. CLU’s accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges further guarantees that the university maintains a high level of academic quality. Furthermore, the university's ranking on the U.S. News & World Report list of top schools in the West (17th in 2007) highlights its strong reputation for providing quality education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The combination of flexible online options and industry-recognized certification programs makes CLU a leading option for students interested in financial planning.

Bentley University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts, offers a Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) program that is designed to enhance careers in personal financial planning. The MSFP program covers a wide range of topics essential to a successful career in financial planning, including retirement planning, income tax and estate planning, insurance, employee benefits, and more. One of the key features of Bentley’s MSFP program is its flexibility; students have the option to take courses full-time or part-time, either entirely online or in a hybrid format, combining on-campus and online learning. This flexibility is ideal for working professionals who need to balance their studies with their careers. Additionally, the program is registered with the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, ensuring that it satisfies the educational requirements needed to sit for the CFP certification exam. Bentley’s program also satisfies the fifth-year academic requirement for becoming a licensed CPA in many states, including Massachusetts, providing added value for students who wish to pursue multiple career tracks in the financial sector. Bentley University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Inc. (NEASC), and it holds prestigious accreditations from The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) and EQUIS, both of which are recognized globally for their rigorous academic standards. Bentley's strong reputation in business and financial education, combined with its innovative MSFP program, makes it a top choice for those interested in furthering their career in financial planning.

The University of Alabama (UA) also offers an excellent online program for students interested in financial planning. The university provides a Bachelor's degree in Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Family Financial Planning and Counseling, which is available entirely online. This program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in financial planning, particularly in helping families navigate their financial decisions. The curriculum covers key areas of financial planning, including budgeting, retirement planning, investments, insurance, and estate planning, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by families when managing their finances. The University of Alabama’s program is a great option for students who are seeking a flexible learning environment and the opportunity to pursue a career in financial planning or counseling. The program's strong focus on practical financial management skills prepares students to handle the financial needs of individuals and families effectively. The University of Alabama is listed in Forbes.com’s 2009 “America’s Best Colleges,” ranking 441st nationally, which speaks to its reputation as a solid institution for higher education. With its fully online format, the University of Alabama’s program allows students to complete their degree on their own schedule, making it an ideal option for those who need to balance their studies with other commitments.

RMIT University in Australia is another notable institution offering a distance learning financial planning degree program. RMIT’s Bachelor of Business in Financial Planning is delivered through Open Universities Australia, providing students with the ability to earn their degree from one of Australia’s largest and most prestigious universities. This program introduces students to key financial concepts, including accounting, banking, financial markets, investments, and more, providing a comprehensive foundation for a career in financial planning. The flexibility of the distance learning format allows students from across Australia and internationally to participate in the program without the need to relocate to Melbourne, where RMIT University is based. RMIT’s reputation as one of the top universities in Australia is further solidified by its ranking among the top 10 Australian universities for research output, ensuring that students are learning from a university that values innovation and academic rigor. The Bachelor of Business in Financial Planning at RMIT offers students a solid educational foundation in financial planning while also preparing them for industry certifications and career advancement in the financial sector.

In conclusion, the rise of online and distance learning financial planning programs has opened up new opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing careers in personal finance, financial advising, and investment management. Universities such as California Lutheran University, Bentley University, the University of Alabama, and RMIT University offer flexible, high-quality programs that provide students with the education and training necessary to succeed in this growing field. Whether students are looking for an accelerated MBA in Financial Planning, a Master of Science in Financial Planning, or a Bachelor’s degree in Family Financial Planning, these programs offer the expertise, flexibility, and credentials that can help individuals advance their careers. As the financial planning field continues to evolve, these universities remain at the forefront of providing accessible, innovative educational opportunities that prepare students for success in the financial industry.