Master of Science in Financial Planning
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) from Cal Lutheran University equips students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the financial planning profession. The program focuses on core concepts such as investment management, retirement planning, and estate planning, and prepares graduates for the CFP® Certification Exam. Delivered online with flexible scheduling, the MSFP offers a comprehensive curriculum and experienced faculty to support students in their career advancement.
Program Outline
The MSFP is designed for individuals seeking to launch or advance their careers in the financial planning and wealth management field. The program focuses on building essential financial planning and advisory skills through a combination of core and elective courses.
Objectives:
- Equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the financial planning profession.
- Prepare students for the CFP® Certification Exam.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making abilities related to financial planning.
- Foster strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective client interaction and relationship management.
Program Description:
- The MSFP curriculum offers a comprehensive understanding of financial planning concepts, including investment management, retirement planning, estate planning, risk management, and insurance.
- Students can tailor their learning experience by selecting electives that align with their specific interests and career goals.
- The program utilizes a case-study approach, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
- Graduates are well-prepared to work in various financial planning settings, including independent practices, large financial institutions, and wealth management firms.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Financial Planning Principles
- Investment Management
- Retirement Planning
- Estate Planning
- Risk Management
- Insurance Planning
- Tax Planning
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility
Structure:
- Online delivery with flexible scheduling
- A total of 12 courses (36 credits)
- Core courses and elective options
- Choice of full-time or part-time study
- Year-round program starts
Course Schedule:
- Courses are offered in 8-week modules throughout the year.
- Students can choose to take one course at a time or multiple courses simultaneously.
Modules:
Each module focuses on a specific topic within the financial planning curriculum. Examples of modules include:
- Financial Planning Process
- Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management
- Retirement Planning Strategies
- Estate Planning Techniques
- Risk Management and Insurance Planning
Assessment:
- A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the program, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Case studies
- Projects
- Presentations
Teaching:
- The MSFP program features experienced faculty with industry expertise and real-world experience in financial planning.
- Courses are taught using a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Group projects
- Online simulations
- Technology is integrated into the learning experience to enhance student engagement and understanding.
Careers:
- Graduates of the MSFP program are prepared for various career paths in the financial planning industry, including:
- Financial Planner
- Wealth Management Advisor
- Retirement Planning Specialist
- Estate Planning Advisor
- Investment Analyst
- The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing further professional certifications, such as the CFP® or ChFC® designations.
- Career support services are available to MSFP students and alumni, including resume and cover letter writing assistance, interview preparation, and job search guidance.
Other:
- The MSFP program is designed to meet the educational requirements for the CFP® Certification Exam.
- Students have access to a variety of resources, including the Pearson Library, online databases, and career services.
- The program is offered online, providing flexibility for working professionals and those seeking to balance their studies with other commitments.
- The cost of the MSFP program is $19,260 for the entire program, based on 2024-2025 rates.
California Lutheran University
Overview:
California Lutheran University (CLU) is a private, coeducational university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It is known for its commitment to personalized education, fostering a strong sense of community, and providing students with real-world experiences. CLU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Academic Services:
Academic advising, registrar services, academic calendars.Campus Safety:
Security services, emergency procedures.Campus Store:
Books, merchandise, supplies.Student Accounts & Billing:
Financial management, payment options.Technology Support:
IT assistance, network access.Veteran Resources:
Support and guidance for veterans.Student Life and Campus Experience:
CLU emphasizes a strong sense of community and offers a variety of opportunities for student involvement. Students can participate in over 100 clubs and organizations, engage in athletics, and enjoy a vibrant campus life with diverse events and activities. The university provides on-campus housing options and dining services.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Personalized Education:
Small class sizes and dedicated faculty allow for individualized attention and mentorship.Real-World Experiences:
CLU encourages students to engage in internships, research, and other practical learning opportunities.Strong Community:
The university fosters a welcoming and supportive environment with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.Career Success:
CLU graduates have a high rate of employment or enrollment in graduate programs.Academic Programs:
Undergraduate:
CLU offers 46 majors and 45 minors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, business, education, and more.Graduate:
The university provides graduate programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and psychology.Other:
Campus Locations:
CLU has multiple campus locations, including Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, and Santa Barbara.News & Features:
The university publishes news articles and features highlighting student achievements, faculty research, and campus events.Arts & Events:
CLU hosts a variety of arts and cultural events, including theatre productions, musical performances, and exhibitions.Alumni Network:
CLU has a strong alumni network with over 34,000 graduates worldwide.Entry Requirements:
For all programs:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Personal statement
Additional requirements for the MBA in Financial Planning and the MBA for Financial Planning Professionals:
- GMAT or GRE scores
International students:
- TOEFL or IELTS scores
- Official transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluation service
Language Proficiency Requirements:
For all programs:
- TOEFL score of 80 or higher
- IELTS score of 6.5 or higher
Exemptions:
- Native English speakers
- Students who have completed a degree from an English-speaking institution Please note that the specific entry requirements may vary depending on the individual program and the applicant's background.
Additional details:
- The application deadline for the Fall 2024 term is June 15, 2024.
- The application fee is $75.
- Students are encouraged to submit their applications early, as space is limited in each program.
