Business – Finance Program (B133)
Program Description
Program Overview
The Business – Finance diploma program will give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the financial services sector. After completing this program, you can look forward to fulfilling careers such as financial advisor, financial services representative, customer service representative and investment advisor.
Full Description
The Business – Finance diploma program prepares you with everything you need to succeed in the fast-paced environment of the financial services sector. As this field continues to evolve with the changing technological landscape, new hires with these valuable skills are in high demand. You’ll gain useful knowledge in the areas of customer service, financial planning, investing and risk management.
Here are some skills you’ll be able to show off after completion of the Business – Finance program:
- Helping clients achieve their life goals through financial advising, retirement planning and estate planning.
- Advising clients on critical topics like tax obligations and risk management.
- Generating financial reports for individuals and organizations by applying financial mathematics and statistics.
- Contributing to the development and implementation of a financial plan for each client’s unique circumstances.
This Centre for Business program is part of our School of Accounting and Finance.
Earn Your College Credential from a Business School Accredited by ACBSP
Fourteen programs at the Centre for Business have earned international recognition from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Advanced diploma and diploma programs at the Schools of Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Management, and Marketing and the Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) program at the School of Accounting and Finance have ACBSP accreditation. George Brown is now one of only two colleges in Ontario to have earned ACBSP accreditation.
Your Field Education Options
George Brown College endeavours to provide field education opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Business.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Core Designations
The two-year B133 diploma is an approved program through FP Canada, and covers the core curriculum required for you to pursue the QAFP™ examination at the time of your choosing and at your own cost. For more information on the QAFP™ designation, please visit the FP Canada website.
Degree Transfer Option
This two-year diploma has a direct pathway to the B302 Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree program at George Brown College.
This two-year diploma has a direct pathway to the Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) with a specialization in Financial Planning (B302). Individuals starting in B133 after Winter 2021 semester that have graduated from their program may be eligible to transfer into Semester 5 of B302. Eligibility is determined based off a Program GPA of 3.0 or higher. This is known as a “2+2” model and is ideal for candidates wishing to pursue degree studies or the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. Individuals may also transfer prior to finishing the B133 program, though eligibility will be assessed based on courses completed and/or Program GPA.
For more information, please contact either:
Katherine Friesen kfriesen@georgebrown.ca
Tracey Britt tbritt1@georgebrown.ca
Carolyn Fallis cfallis@georgebrown.ca
B302 is also an approved program through FP Canada. For more information on the CFP® designation, please visit the FP Canada website.
Note: effective April 1, 2022 CFP® Certification requires a minimum bachelor’s degree. Individuals wishing to pursue a QAFP™ Certification require a minimum 2-year college diploma, which includes B133.
For more information on the degree program, please visit the B302 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) program.
Other Certifications
Graduates of this program may wish to pursue the following additional credentials or certifications in the financial services sector
- Canadian Securities Course (CSC I and CSC II) may be obtained through the Canadian Securities Institute
- Life License Qualification Program (LLQP) course may be obtained through approved providers as listed on Life Licence Qualification Program (LLQP) | Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (fsrao.ca). This is followed by the Provincial Licensing exam.
- Note: The requirements for each designation/certification are set by the granting body, not George Brown College. This includes the QAFP™ and the CFP®. In order to qualify for any of these designations/certifications, you need to follow the process listed on its website and meet all the requirements applicable to you.
Future Study
For information on additional future study options, see our transfer guide.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
In order to graduate from the B133 program, you need to complete 27 courses: 24 mandatory courses and 3 General Education electives.
Depending on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. Similarly, you may be required to take MATH 1027 Business Math with Remediation before progressing to MATH 1191. COMM 1000 and MATH 1027 do not count toward the 27 courses required for graduation, and you will be charged for these extra courses. Please speak to the Business Office staff if you need any assistance.
General Education Courses (semesters 2, 3 and 4): You must complete three General Education courses chosen from at least two of the following categories: Social Sciences (GSSC), Arts and Humanities (GHUM) or Science and Technology (GSCI).
You are required to make up any failed or dropped courses before you are eligible to graduate. You can make up these courses during the day, and some are offered in the evening through Continuing Education. Please check with the business office staff to ensure that the Continuing Education courses are equivalent to what is taught in the full-time program. Note that some courses may not be offered in every semester. Our staff can assist you with any special timetable requirements you may have.
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Courses |
|---|---|
| BUS 1038 | Business Concepts I |
| CMMK 1087 | Human Skills |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| ECON 1032 | Macroeconomics |
| FIN 1003 | Financial Systems in Canada |
| MARK 1020 | Principles of Marketing 1 |
| MATH 1191 | Mathematics of Finance |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Courses |
|---|---|
| ACCT 1001 | Accounting Fundamentals I |
| COMP 1010 | Business Computer Applications I |
| COMM 1034 | Professional Communications I |
| FIN 1011 | Fundamentals of Financial Planning |
| PSY 1129 | Organizational Behaviour |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Courses |
|---|---|
| BUS 1056 | Business Presentation Skills |
| FIN 1035 | Retirement Planning |
| FIN 2035 | Consumer Behaviour & Financial Needs |
| FIN 2061 | Canadian Investments I |
| LAW 1011 | Business and Family Law |
| STAT 1010 | Quantitative Methods I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Courses |
|---|---|
| ACCT 2028 | Taxation I |
| FIN 2003 | Money Management Software |
| FIN 2052 | Post Retirement & Estate Planning |
| FIN 2062 | Canadian Investments II |
| FIN 2063 | Insurance in Financial Planning |
| STS 1037 | Career Planning & Development |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Articulation Agreement
George Brown College has agreements with several universities in Canada, the United States and abroad that may give you credit for your college diploma.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Process and maintain financial records in compliance with relevant policies, procedures and regulations for individuals and/or organizations.
- Prepare and present financial information in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations for individuals and/or organizations.
- Generate financial reports for individuals and/or organizations by applying financial mathematics and statistics.
- Contribute to the development and the implementation of a financial plan to meet individuals’ and/or organizations’ needs and objectives.
- Contribute to the development and the implementation of marketing strategies to promote financial products and services and to enhance customer service.
- Develop and implement strategies to establish and maintain professional networking and business relationships in the finance sector.
- Analyze, within a Canadian context, the impact of economic variables, legislation, ethics, technology and the environment on individuals’ and/or organizations’ operations.
- Develop and implement ongoing strategies for personal and professional development, highlighting ethics, values and standards in the finance sector.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates.
**Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice.
The program teaches the curriculum required to prepare to write industry-credentialing exams. These include:
- Canadian Securities Course I and II (CSC I and CSC II)
- Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP®) Exam
- Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) Exam (Note: A degree requirement is being introduced to be eligible to become a CFP Professional, visit the FP Canada website for more info. If you wish to pursue a degree, please see the “Future Studies” section below.)
- Life License Qualification Program (LLQP)
- an approved LLQP training course
- LLQP provincial examination
Fees for external exams are not included and are an additional cost to this program. Students or graduates should visit the following websites for information regarding exam dates and fees:
- FP Canada
- Canadian Securities Institute
- Oliver's Learning (or another approved provider)
- Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (C, M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
COURSE EXEMPTIONS
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Proficiency in English communications is necessary for success in this program. Please review our English proficiency requirements.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Information Sessions
Information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff, and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an upcoming session.
Domestic Student Admissions
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines, or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions section.
International Student Admissions
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
Fees and Financial Information
For inquiries about OSAP, Bursaries, Scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid section.
Entry Advising
For advice on the various program options and which program might be best suited for you, make an appointment to see an Entry Advisor. Please review these frequently asked questions.
Centre for Business
For questions regarding programs at the Centre for Business or if you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff are available to assist you.
For general inquiries, please contact the Centre for Business:
Email: business@georgebrown.ca
Phone: (416) 415-5000 ext. 2160
Business – Finance (B133)
For inquiries related to this program (for example, course-specific information), please contact one of the program co-ordinators:
Professor Tracey Britt, Program Co-ordinator Email: tbritt1@georgebrown.ca
and
Professor Carolyn Fallis, Program Co-ordinator Email: cfallis@georgebrown.ca
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Accounting and Finance and classes take place at our St. James Campus.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
Social Channels:
Business – Finance Program (B133)
Program Description
Program Overview
The Business – Finance diploma program will give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the financial services sector. After completing this program, you can look forward to fulfilling careers such as financial advisor, financial services representative, customer service representative, and investment advisor.
Full Description
The Business – Finance diploma program prepares you with everything you need to succeed in the fast-paced environment of the financial services sector. As this field continues to evolve with the changing technological landscape, new hires with these valuable skills are in high demand. You’ll gain useful knowledge in the areas of customer service, financial planning, investing, and risk management.
Here are some skills you’ll be able to show off after completion of the Business - Finance program:
- Helping clients achieve their life goals through financial advising, retirement planning, and estate planning
- Advising clients on critical topics like tax obligations and risk management
- Generating financial reports for individuals and organizations by applying financial mathematics and statistics
- Contributing to the development and implementation of a financial plan for each client’s unique circumstances
This Centre for Business program is part of our School of Accounting and Finance.
Earn Your College Credential from a Business School Accredited by ACBSP
Fourteen programs at the Centre for Business have earned international recognition from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Advanced diploma and diploma programs at the Schools of Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Management, and Marketing and the Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) program at the School of Accounting and Finance have ACBSP accreditation. George Brown is now one of only two colleges in Ontario to have earned ACBSP accreditation.
Your Field Education Options
George Brown College endeavours to provide field education opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Business.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Core Designations
The two-year B133 diploma is an approved program through FP Canada, and covers the core curriculum required for you to pursue the QAFP™ examination at the time of your choosing and at your own cost. For more information on the QAFP™ designation, please visit the FP Canada website.
Degree Transfer Option
This two-year diploma has a direct pathway to the B302 Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree program at George Brown College.
This two-year diploma has a direct pathway to the Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) with a specialization in Financial Planning (B302). Individuals starting in B133 after Winter 2021 semester that have graduated from their program may be eligible to transfer into Semester 5 of B302. Eligibility is determined based off a Program GPA of 3.0 or higher. This is known as a “2+2” model and is ideal for candidates wishing to pursue degree studies or the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. Individuals may also transfer prior to finishing the B133 program, though eligibility will be assessed based courses completed and/or Program GPA.
For more information, please contact either:
Katherine Friesen kfriesen@georgebrown.ca
Tracey Britt tbritt1@georgebrown.ca
Carolyn Fallis cfallis@georgebrown.ca
B302 is also an approved program through FP Canada. For more information on the CFP® designation, please visit the FP Canada website.
Note: effective April 1, 2022 CFP® Certification requires a minimum bachelor’s degree. Individuals wishing to pursue a QAFP™ Certification require a minimum 2-year college diploma, which includes B133.
For more information on the degree program, please visit the B302 Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) program.
Other Certifications
Graduates of this program may wish to pursue the following additional credentials or certifications in the financial services sector.
- Canadian Securities Course (CSC) may be obtained through the Canadian Securities Institute.
- Life License Qualification Program (LLQP) may be obtained through Oliver’s Learning (or another approved provider) followed by the Provincial Licensing exam.
Note: The requirements for each designation/certification are set by the granting body, not George Brown College. This includes the QAFP™ and the CFP®. In order to qualify for any of these designations/certifications, you need to follow the process listed on its website and meet all the requirements applicable to you.
Future Study
For information on additional future study options, see our transfer guide.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
In order to graduate from the B133 program, you need to complete 27 courses: 24 mandatory courses and 3 General Education electives.
Depending on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. Similarly, you may be required to take MATH 1027 (Business Math with Remediation) before progressing to MATH 1191. COMM 1000 and MATH 1027 do not count toward the 27 courses required for graduation, and you will be charged for these extra courses. Please speak to the Business Office staff if you need any assistance.
General Education Courses (semesters 2, 3 and 4): You must complete three General Education courses chosen from at least two of the following categories: Social Sciences (GSSC), Arts and Humanities (GHUM) or Science and Technology (GSCI).
You are required to make up any failed or dropped courses before you are eligible to graduate. You can make up these courses during the day, and some are offered in the evening through Continuing Education. Please check with the business office staff to ensure that the Continuing Education courses are equivalent to what is taught in the full-time program. Note that some courses may not be offered in every semester. Our staff can assist you with any special timetable requirements you may have.
SEMESTER 1
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1038 | Business Concepts I | NONE |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts | NONE |
| ECON 1032 | Macroeconomics | NONE |
| FIN 1003 | Financial Systems in Canada | NONE |
| MATH 1191 | Mathematics of Finance | NONE |
| MARK 1020 | Principles of Marketing 1 | NONE |
| CMMK 1087 | Human Skills | NONE |
SEMESTER 2
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 1001 | Accounting Fundamentals I | NONE |
| COMP 1010 | Business Computer Applications I | NONE |
| COMM 1034 | Professional Communications I | COMM 2000 |
| FIN 1011 | Fundamentals of Financial Planning | NONE |
| PSY 1129 | Organizational Behaviour | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 3
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1056 | Business Presentation Skills | COMM 2000 |
| FIN 2061 | Canadian Investments I | NONE |
| FIN 2035 | Consumer Behaviour & Financial Needs | MARK 1020 |
| FIN 1035 | Retirement Planning | FIN 1011 |
| LAW 1011 | Business and Family Law | NONE |
| STAT 1010 | Quantitative Methods I | MATH 1191 |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 4
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 2028 | Taxation I | ACCT 1001 |
| FIN 2052 | Post Retirement & Estate Planning | FIN 1035 |
| FIN 2062 | Canadian Investments II | NONE |
| FIN 2063 | Insurance in Financial Planning | NONE |
| FIN 2003 | Money Management Software | FIN 1011 |
| STS 1037 | Career Planning & Development | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
Articulation Agreement
George Brown College has agreements with several universities in Canada, the United States and abroad that may give you credit for your college diploma.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Process and maintain financial records in compliance with relevant policies, procedures and regulations for individuals and/or organizations.
- Prepare and present financial information in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations for individuals and/or organizations.
- Generate financial reports for individuals and/or organizations by applying financial mathematics and statistics.
- Contribute to the development and the implementation of a financial plan to meet individuals’ and/or organizations’ needs and objectives.
- Contribute to the development and the implementation of marketing strategies to promote financial products and services and to enhance customer service.
- Develop and implement strategies to establish and maintain professional networking and business relationships in the finance sector.
- Analyze, within a Canadian context, the impact of economic variables, legislation, ethics, technology and the environment on individuals’ and/or organizations’ operations.
- Develop and implement ongoing strategies for personal and professional development, highlighting ethics, values and standards in the finance sector.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
The program teaches the curriculum required to prepare to write industry-credentialing exams. These include:
- Canadian Securities Course I and II (CSC I and CSC II)
- Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP®) Exam
- Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) Exam (Note: A degree requirement is being introduced to be eligible to become a CFP Professional, visit the FP Canada website for more info. If you wish to pursue a degree, please see the “Future Studies” section below.)
- Life License Qualification Program (LLQP)
- an approved LLQP training course
- LLQP provincial examination
Fees for external exams are not included and are an additional cost to this program. Students or graduates should visit the following websites for information regarding exam dates and fees:
- FP Canada
- Canadian Securities Institute
- Oliver's Learning (or another approved provider)
- Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (C, M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
COURSE EXEMPTIONS
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Proficiency in English communications is necessary for success in this program. Please review our English proficiency requirements.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Information Sessions
Information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff, and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an upcoming session.
Domestic Student Admissions
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines, or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions section.
International Student Admissions
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
Fees and Financial Information
For inquiries about OSAP, Bursaries, Scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid section.
Entry Advising
For advice on the various program options and which program might be best suited for you, make an appointment to see an Entry Advisor. Please review these frequently asked questions.
Centre for Business
For questions regarding programs at the Centre for Business or if you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff are available to assist you.
For general inquiries, please contact the Centre for Business:
Email: business@georgebrown.ca
Phone: (416) 415-5000 ext. 2160
Business – Finance (B133)
For inquiries related to this program (for example, course-specific information) please contact one of the program co-ordinators:
Tracey Britt, Program Co-ordinator Email: tbritt1@georgebrown.ca
or
Carolyn Fallis, Program Co-ordinator Email: cfallis@georgebrown.ca
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Accounting and Finance and classes take place at our St. James Campus, mainly at 200 King St. E., and 290 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
