Bachelor of Science in Personal Financial Planning

The Bachelor of Science in Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in the financial services industry. This program offers a robust curriculum that combines foundational knowledge in finance, accounting, economics, and communication with specialized courses tailored to personal financial planning. Students will learn how to assist individuals and families in achieving their financial goals through effective budgeting, investment planning, retirement strategies, estate planning, and risk management. The program emphasizes ethical standards, professional responsibility, and the importance of client-centered service, ensuring graduates are equipped to serve diverse client needs with integrity and expertise. Through a mix of theoretical coursework, practical applications, and experiential learning opportunities, students gain hands-on experience in financial analysis, planning software, and real-world case studies. The program also prepares students for professional certifications such as the CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) designation, which is highly valued in the industry. Faculty members bring a wealth of industry experience and academic expertise, fostering an environment of learning, inquiry, and professional development. The BS in Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University is ideal for students interested in helping others make informed financial decisions, and it offers pathways to careers such as financial advisor, planner, analyst, or consultant. Equipped with a strong liberal arts foundation and specialized financial knowledge, graduates are well-positioned to succeed in a competitive job market and to make meaningful contributions to the financial well-being of their clients.

Detailed Course Facts

• USD 275 Module (National)
• USD 827 Module (International)

*Tuition fee per credit hour

• English

Course Content

• Family Financial Planning as a Career
• Introduction to Personal and Family Finance
• Introduction to Human Development
• The Helping Relationship
• Family and Consumer Economics
• Advanced Personal and Family Finance
• Professional Seminar in Family Financial Planning
• Financial Counseling
• Families, Employment Benefits, and Retirement Planning
• Investing for the Family's Future
• Estate Planning for Families
• Insurance Planning for Families
• Personal Income Taxation

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Personal Financial Planning at Kansas State University include the completion of core coursework in economics, accounting, and business principles, along with specialized courses in financial planning, estate planning, risk management, investments, and retirement planning. Students must also engage in professional development activities, such as internships or industry certifications like the CFP® designation, often encouraged or required for successful career placement. Admission prerequisites typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on mathematics and business-related coursework, and a minimum GPA criterion. Throughout the program, students are expected to complete a specified number of credit hours, which encompass both lecture-based classes and practical labs to ensure a comprehensive understanding of financial advising, estate and tax planning, and behavioral finance. Certain courses may involve group projects, case studies, and presentations to foster communication and analytical skills vital for financial planning professionals. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in workshops, seminars, and networking events organized by the university's financial planning center to build industry connections and stay updated on current practices and regulations. Upon graduation, students should demonstrate proficiency in financial analysis, client relationship management, ethical considerations in advising, and the application of financial planning software. Certification preparation courses may be integrated into the curriculum for students aiming to attain the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) credential post-graduation. Overall, program requirements are designed to produce competent, ethical, and well-rounded financial planning professionals prepared to serve individual clients and organizations effectively.

The financing of the Personal Financial Planning program at Kansas State University is structured to support students through various financial aid options, scholarships, and in-state tuition rates. The university offers a range of financial resources aimed at reducing the burden of educational expenses and making the program accessible to a diverse student body. Students are encouraged to apply for federal and state financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can provide grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Kansas State University participates in federal loan programs such as the Stafford and Perkins loans, which offer low-interest borrowing options for eligible students.

In addition to federal aid, the university provides institutional scholarships specifically for students enrolled in the College of Human Ecology, which encompasses the Personal Financial Planning program. These scholarships are awarded based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both, and can significantly offset tuition costs. The program's students may also explore external scholarship opportunities from professional organizations, financial planning associations, and industry stakeholders that support education in personal financial planning.

Tuition rates for in-state students are lower compared to out-of-state students, with current tuition structures publicly available on the university’s website. For in-state students, the tuition covers registration fees, credit hour costs, and ancillary fees, with additional expenses for textbooks, supplies, and personal expenses. Out-of-state students typically pay higher tuition rates but may qualify for scholarships or tuition waivers that can reduce these costs.

Kansas State University also offers payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over multiple installments throughout the semester, easing financial strain. Graduate students enrolled in the program may qualify for teaching assistantships or research assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waiver in exchange for part-time teaching or research duties. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore private student loans if federal aid does not fully cover their expenses.

Overall, the financing options for the Personal Financial Planning program at Kansas State University are designed to be flexible and supportive, enabling students to manage the costs of their education through a combination of financial aid, scholarships, work opportunities, and payment plans. Prospective students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office and the program’s official resources for the most up-to-date information on available assistance and eligibility requirements.

The Personal Financial Planning program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for careers that help individuals and families manage their personal financial affairs effectively. The program emphasizes practical skills in areas such as investment planning, retirement planning, estate planning, tax strategies, risk management, insurance, and budgeting. Students learn to analyze clients' financial situations, develop personalized financial plans, and recommend appropriate financial products and strategies to meet clients' goals. The curriculum combines theoretical financial principles with hands-on training, often including case studies, simulations, and internship opportunities, to ensure graduates are well-equipped to enter the financial services industry. The program also covers ethical standards and regulatory issues relevant to financial planning, preparing students for certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. Graduates of the program can pursue employment as financial planners, advisors, planners, or consultants in various settings, including banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and independent financial planning practices. The program may also provide pathways for graduate studies in finance, business administration, or other related fields. Kansas State University supports its students through dedicated faculty members who bring real-world experience and academic expertise, and through resources such as career services, networking events, and professional development workshops. As part of its commitment to comprehensive education, the university encourages students to develop strong communication and interpersonal skills, vital for building client relationships and understanding diverse financial needs. The program typically requires completion of core courses, electives, and a capstone project or internship, culminating in a Bachelor's degree in Personal Financial Planning or a related major. Overall, Kansas State University’s program aims to produce confident, competent, and ethical financial professionals ready to serve the financial planning needs of individuals and communities.