Financial Planning

The Bachelor of Financial Planning at the University of Newcastle is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to excel in the dynamic field of financial planning and advisory services. This program offers a blend of theoretical foundations and applied learning, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse financial needs of individual clients and organizations. Throughout the course, students will explore core areas such as personal financial management, investment planning, risk assessment, estate planning, superannuation, taxation strategies, and ethical considerations in financial advising. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application through case studies, simulations, and industry placements, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, students have the opportunity to deepen their expertise in specialized areas like insurance planning, retirement planning, and intergenerational wealth transfer. The program is designed in alignment with industry standards and regulations, ensuring graduates are ready to pursue relevant professional certifications and careers in financial planning, wealth management, and advisory services. The University of Newcastle’s close connections with industry partners and its focus on experiential learning provide students with valuable networking opportunities and practical insights into the financial services sector. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers as financial planners, financial advisors, investment consultants, and other related roles, contributing to the financial wellbeing of individuals and workplaces. With a focus on ethical practices, professionalism, and continuous learning, the Bachelor of Financial Planning at the University of Newcastle prepares students for a successful career in one of the most important and growing fields within the financial industry.

The Bachelor of Financial Planning at The University of Newcastle provides students with a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for a professional career in financial planning and related fields. The program covers a broad range of topics essential for understanding personal and corporate financial management, including investment strategies, retirement planning, risk management, taxation, and estate planning. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through a mix of lectures, case studies, projects, and industry simulations.

Throughout the course, students will explore key financial concepts such as financial markets, financial advising, compliance and ethical considerations, and the use of financial planning software. The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills, critical thinking, and effective communication, which are vital for providing sound financial advice to clients. Teaching methodologies incorporate real-world scenarios to ensure graduates are able to apply their knowledge effectively in diverse financial contexts.

The curriculum includes core units in financial mathematics, economics, and law, alongside specialized subjects in personal financial planning, investment analysis, superannuation, and insurance. Students will also have opportunities for industry placements and internships, allowing them to gain practical experience and establish professional networks. The program is designed in accordance with industry standards and incorporates the latest regulations and ethical guidelines governing financial services.

Graduates of this program will be equipped to work as financial advisors, planners, or consultants in a variety of settings such as banking, insurance companies, investment firms, and independently as licensed financial planners. The program also provides a solid foundation for further study or certification in financial planning or related fields, supporting lifelong professional development. With a focus on ethical practice, client-centric advice, and regulatory compliance, the Bachelor of Financial Planning aims to produce highly competent and responsible financial professionals ready to meet the needs of clients in an evolving financial landscape.

• Entry into the Graduate Certificate of Financial Planning will be strictly available to applicants who were in a for at least 12 months and were listed on the Australian Securities and Investment Commission's (ASIC) financial adviser enroll as of 1 Jan 2019 (ie to be considered "existing advisers" according to FASEA's FPS001 policy). Specifically, applicants must have a: Bachelor Degree in a related discipline + one year relevant industry experience
• Or Diploma qualification in a related discipline + one year relevant industry experience
• Or Diploma qualification in an non-related discipline + 2 years' relevant industry experience
• Or Minimum 5 years' relevant industry experience expertise.

The University of Newcastle offers comprehensive information regarding financing options for students enrolled in their programs. Prospective students can access various sources of financial assistance to support their studies, including government loans, scholarships, grants, and payment plans. The university provides detailed guidance on how to apply for financial aid through the New South Wales (NSW) government’s higher education loan programs, such as the FEE-HELP scheme, which allows eligible students to defer payment of their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income. Additionally, the university offers its own scholarships and bursaries aimed at both domestic and international students based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to fields of study like Financial Planning. These scholarship options are competitive and require a separate application process, with criteria published on the university’s official website.

Students are encouraged to seek financial planning advice through the university’s student support services, which can assist in developing a budget and exploring options for managing expenses related to tuition, textbooks, living costs, and other associated fees. The university also provides information on alternative financing such as external scholarships, employer sponsorships, and part-time work opportunities, which can help students fund their education while gaining valuable work experience.

For international students, different financial arrangements may apply, including possible tuition payments upfront or through payment plans endorsed by the university. It is advised that international students review the specific conditions and requirements for their country of residence and visa entitlements related to work and study.

Overall, the university emphasizes transparency and provides detailed financial information to ensure students are well-informed about their options for financing their studies in Financial Planning or related programs. It encourages early planning and consultation with financial advisors or support staff to ensure successful management of study costs.

The University of Newcastle offers a comprehensive program in Financial Planning designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the financial services industry. The program emphasizes practical skills, ethical considerations, and a deep understanding of financial products, markets, and regulations. Students will learn about personal financial planning, investment strategies, retirement planning, risk management, and estate planning. Coursework includes topics such as financial mathematics, superannuation and pensions, insurance, taxation, and superannuation legislation, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the complex environment of financial planning. The program is structured to provide both theoretical foundations and practical experiences, often through case studies, simulations, and industry placements. This approach helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to real-world financial advising. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers as certified financial planners, wealth managers, financial advisers, and other roles within the financial services sector. The University of Newcastle is known for its strong industry connections, which facilitate networking opportunities, work placements, and engagement with financial professionals. The program also emphasizes professional ethics, compliance, and responsibilities, preparing students to uphold the high standards required in financial planning practice. Upon successful completion of the program, students may also have opportunities to gain professional certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, depending on additional requirements. Overall, this program aims to produce highly skilled, ethically responsible financial planning professionals ready to meet the needs of clients and adapt to evolving financial landscapes.