OU program ideal for aspiring financial service professionals

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, Oakland University's School of Business Administration offers the Certificate Program in Personal Financial Planning. Starting the week of Monday, Jan. 9, the program will present techniques and knowledge used to assist clients in accumulating, conserving and transferring personal wealth.

This board-registered program will allow students 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 also be able to connect to many Personal Financial Planning courses remotely using a web-based online educational system.

Graduates of the program will earn a Certificate in Personal Financial Planning and will be eligible to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination. Candidates need to have a bachelor's degree to be awarded the CFP® designation.

The deadline to register for the winter certificate program is Friday, Jan. 6.

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. 16-19. Participants can register for the Exam Review Workshop through Thursday, Jan. 19.

To learn more about or to register for either program, visit oakland.edu/pfp or call the program office at (248) 370-3128.