Financial Planning Program (Postgraduate) (B407)
Program Description
Program Overview
The Financial Planning graduate certificate is an eight-month program that gives students the skills to help others reach their financial and lifestyle goals. Upon completion, graduates attain employment in financial institutions as personal banking officers and customer service representatives on their pathway to becoming investment advisors or financial planners.
Full Description
With many financial services companies – such as banks, financial planning firms and other financial institutions – eager to hire talent with an in-depth understanding of financial planning, the Financial Planning graduate certificate program offers a great opportunity for students looking to break into this field.
Here are some skills you’ll be able to show off after completion of the Financial Planning program:
- Assessing a client’s current and future financial position based on their cash flow, budget and net worth
- Advising on critical topics like retirement, estate planning, insurance and risk management
- Counselling a client on potential tax and legal implications of their financial plan
- Creating a comprehensive financial plan for a client with complex needs
This Centre for Business program is part of our School of Accounting and Finance.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
For information on future study options, see our transfer guide.
Related Credentials and Certifications
Graduates of this program may wish to pursue other credentials or certifications in the financial services sector.
Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP®) Certification may be obtained through FP Canada. Graduates complete the core curriculum requirement on the pathway to QAFP® certification.
Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) certification may be obtained through FP Canada. Graduates will complete the core and advanced curriculum requirements on the pathway to CFP® certification. (Note: A degree requirement is being introduced to be eligible to become a CFP professional, visit the FP Canada website for more information.)
Canadian Securities Course I and II (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. 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.
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 B407 program, you need to complete 12 mandatory courses.
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Title |
|---|---|
| FIN 4004 | Personal Financial Planning |
| FIN 4005 | Retirement Planning I |
| FIN 4017 | Income Tax Fundamentals |
| FIN 4023 | Career Planning |
| FIN 4024 | Canadian Investments I |
| LAW 4002 | Business & Family Law |
| MATH 4001 | Math of Finance of Investment |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Title |
|---|---|
| FIN 4010 | Estate Planning |
| FIN 4012 | Advanced Financial Planning |
| FIN 4018 | Income Tax Planning |
| FIN 4025 | Canadian Investments II |
| FIN 4026 | Insurance in Financial Planning |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Integrate ethical decision-making processes into all aspects of the financial planning profession.
- Apply recognized financial planning principles and industry standards to the systematic analysis of financial position and requirements.
- Prepare accurate and relevant financial plans manually and electronically.
- Integrate economic and personal information necessary for effective financial planning decisions.
- Compare, contrast and select, from appropriate financial products and services, investment planning and counselling services for the public according to industry standards, including taxation counselling.
- Effectively market financial products through the development of an inventory of prospective clients, following up with individual sales strategies in pursuit of new and renewal business.
- Recognize potential tax and legal implications within a financial planning situation.
- Identify and apply written and verbal client-focused communication styles and strategies.
- Research market opportunities and implement a business plan in support of client needs, as well as student career choices.
- Qualify to challenge the Certified Financial Planner (CFP™) and to be fully licensed with the IIROC/MFDA.
- Provide recommendations and options to the public for managing risk involving life and health insurance products.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* 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. 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.)
- 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:
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 web pages 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
- College diploma (two-year), advanced diploma (three-year) or bachelor's degree or demonstrated, relevant work experience (resumé and references required).
English Language Proficiency
Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are considered for admission to the program based solely on their work experience will be required to provide proof of English proficiency at the college level, and may be required to write the George Brown College English admission assessment.
Please review our English proficiency requirements.
Course Exemptions
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
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
Financial Planning (B407)
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:
Financial Planning Program (Postgraduate) (B407)
Program Description
Program Overview
The Financial Planning graduate certificate is an eight-month program that gives students the skills to help others reach their financial and lifestyle goals. Financial advisors, personal banking officers, and investment advisors are among the jobs graduates enjoy after this program.
Full Description
With many financial services companies—such as banks, financial planning firms, and other financial institutions—eager to hire talent with an in-depth understanding of financial planning, the Financial Planning graduate certificate program offers a great opportunity for students looking to break into this field.
Here are some skills you’ll be able to show off after completion of the Financial Planning program:
- Assessing a client’s current and future financial position based on their cash flow, budget, and net worth
- Advising on critical topics like retirement, estate planning, insurance and risk management
- Counselling a client on potential tax and legal implications of their financial plan
- Creating a comprehensive financial plan for a client with complex needs
This Centre for Business program is part of our School of Accounting and Finance.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
For information on future study options, see our transfer guide.
Related Credentials and Certifications
Graduates of this program may wish to pursue other credentials or certifications in the financial services sector.
Qualified Associate Financial Planner (QAFP®) designation may be obtained through FP Canada.
Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation may be obtained through FP Canada. (Note: A degree requirement is being introduced to be eligible to become a CFP professional, visit the FP Canada website for more information.)
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. 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.
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 B407 program, you need to complete 12 mandatory courses.
SEMESTER 1
| CODE | COURSE NAME | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 4001 | Math of Finance of Investment | NONE |
| FIN 4024 | Canadian Investments I | NONE |
| FIN 4004 | Personal Financial Planning | NONE |
| FIN 4005 | Retirement Planning I | NONE |
| LAW 4002 | Business & Family Law | NONE |
| FIN 4017 | Income Tax Fundamentals | NONE |
| FIN 4023 | Career Planning | NONE |
SEMESTER 2
| CODE | COURSE NAME | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| FIN 4026 | Insurance in Financial Planning | NONE |
| FIN 4025 | Canadian Investments II | NONE |
| FIN 4018 | Income Tax Planning | FIN 4017 |
| FIN 4010 | Estate Planning | FIN 4004 |
| FIN 4012 | Advanced Financial Planning | MATH 4001, FIN 4004, FIN 4005, FIN 4017 |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Integrate ethical decision-making processes into all aspects of the financial planning profession.
- Apply recognized financial planning principles and industry standards to the systematic analysis of financial position and requirements.
- Prepare accurate and relevant financial plans manually and electronically.
- Integrate economic and personal information necessary for effective financial planning decisions.
- Compare, contrast and select, from appropriate financial products and services, investment planning and counselling services for the public according to industry standards, including taxation counselling.
- Effectively market financial products through the development of an inventory of prospective clients, following up with individual sales strategies in pursuit of new and renewal business.
- Recognize potential tax and legal implications within a financial planning situation.
- Identify and apply written and verbal client-focused communication styles and strategies.
- Research market opportunities and implement a business plan in support of client needs, as well as student career choices.
- Qualify to challenge the Certified Financial Planner (CFP™) and to be fully licensed with the IIROC/MFDA.
- Provide recommendations and options to the public for managing risk involving life and health insurance products.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated 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.)
- 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.
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
- College advanced diploma (three-year) or bachelor's degree or demonstrated, relevant work experience (resumé and references required).
English Language Proficiency
Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are considered for admission to the program based solely on their work experience will be required to provide proof of English proficiency at the college level, and may be required to write the George Brown College English admission assessment.
Please review our English proficiency requirements.
Course Exemptions
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
International (Visa) Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
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
Financial Planning (B407)
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, predominantly at 200 King St. E., and 290 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, ON, Canada.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
