OU programs open new career opportunities in financial planning

By Dave Groves, contributing writer

Concerns over the current economic climate, preparing for retirement and finding the right financial products and services have many Americans seeking professional financial guidance. This has created new opportunities for financial service professionals who can provide integrated analyses of clients' needs and compile comprehensive financial plans.

To help answer growing demand for this valuable guidance, Oakland University's School of Business Administration offers the Certificate Program in Personal Financial Planning. Starting the week of Jan. 17, the program will present techniques and knowledge to help formulate and execute plans that assist clients in accumulating, conserving and transferring personal wealth.

Students in this board-certified program will have opportunities to exchange information with colleagues from a wide range of professions and businesses, as well as with instructors who represent the full spectrum of the financial services industry.

Experienced faculty will bridge the gap between theory and real world practice through lectures, discussions, case studies and guest expert presentations. Students will be able to connect to all CFP courses remotely using a web-based online educational system. Graduates will earn a Certificate in Personal Financial Planning and those with a bachelor's degree will be eligible to sit for the CFP Certification Examination.

Individuals who are ready now to prepare for the certification examination can register for an instructor-led, comprehensive Exam Review Workshop hosted by the SBA and Keir Educational Resources. The review will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Feb. 17-20.

The deadline to register for the certificate program this winter is Thursday, Jan. 13. Participants can register for the Exam Review Workshop through Thursday, Jan. 27. To learn more about or to register for either program, visit sba.oakland.edu/ce or call (248) 370-3537.