Establishing A Certified Financial Planner Program At A Regional University

Abstract

This paper discusses the process of establishing a Certified Financial Planner™ program at a regional state university as well as the benefits of such a practical program for students.  In 2003 the financial planning curriculum at Eastern Illinois University became board registered by the Certified Financial Planner™ Board.  Students take five courses covering taxation, insurance, investments, retirement planning, and estate planning.  This curriculum satisfies the requirements to sit for the Certified Financial Planner™ [CFP®] exam.  Recent students of our program have obtained good jobs primarily in the area of retirement planning and investments.