Financial Planners

High School

If financial planning sounds interesting to you, take as many business and economics classes as possible as well as mathematics. Communication courses, such as speech or drama, will help put you at ease when talking in front of a crowd, something financial planners must do occasionally. English courses will help you prepare the written reports planners present to their clients. Computer science and information technology courses will help you to learn how to use databases and conduct research on the Internet.

Postsecondary Training

You will need at least a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, mathematics, business, or law to work as a financial planner. Courses in accounting, business administration, economics, finance, marketing, investments, tax law, estate planning, risk management, psychology, counseling, and public speaking will provide you with excellent preparation for this career. Those with master's degrees in finance or business administration are stronger candidates for advancement to managerial positions.

Participation in an internship at a financial planning firm or a related employer is also required. As an intern, you will receive hands-on experience working with financial planners and get a chance to explore the various aspects of the field. You will also make valuable contacts, which you might be able to use to help you land a job after you graduate.

Certification

The American College of Financial Services offers a graduate certificate in business succession planning, as well as one in estate planning and taxation. The Investments & Wealth Institute offers an essentials of investment management certificate program. Fi360 offers the fiduciary essentials for advisors certificate program. Contact these organizations to learn more.

Other Education or Training

Keeping up with industry developments is key to success as a financial planner. Professional associations often provide continuing education opportunities. For example, the Financial Planning Association offers continuing education (CE) classes, workshops, webinars, and seminars on communication and organizational skills, sales and marketing, and business and practice management. The American College of Financial Services, Fi360,Investments & Wealth Institute, and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors also offer CE opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.