Athabasca University has become the first education provider to offer FPSC-Approved Core Curriculum courses in an online degree program. Athabasca is the largest online university in Canada.

Eight courses have been approved. These courses qualify students for FPSC Level 1 Certification in Financial Planning, the first step towards obtaining a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. The courses are part of the university’s Bachelor of Commerce degree program.

Certified Financial Planner designation

“Many of our students see great value in earning the Certified Financial Planner designation,” said Deborah Hurst, dean of AU’s Faculty of Business, in an announcement issued this week. “It’s a certification that is increasingly relevant and we expect demand for CFP professionals to increase dramatically across Canada.”

After completing the core FPSC-Approved Core Curriculum courses, students must then take the FPSC Level 1 Examination in Financial Planning. After passing the exam, students may then apply to become FPSC Level 1 Certificants in Financial Planning. Those who go on to successfully complete an FPSC-Approved Capstone Course and the CFP examination, as well as three years of qualifying work experience, may then apply for CFP certification.

Expands the opportunities for students

“We’re delighted to add Athabasca University as an approved Core Curriculum provider,” says Cary List, president and CEO of FPSC. “AU’s online delivery model expands the opportunities for students from across the country to pursue a degree at the same time they pursue a career as a professional financial planner, regardless of their geographical location.”