Undergraduate Major
Financial planning is the long-term process of wisely managing assets to help achieve business and personal goals, while at the same time negotiating the financial barriers that inevitably arise in every stage of life. Planning is the essential first step towards financial well-being.
DEGREE OPTIONS
The Muma College of Business offers a B.S. in Personal Financial Planning on the St. Petersburg campus.
View more information about options on the USF Tampa campus.
FINANCIAL PLANNING AT USF ST. PETERSBURG CAMPUS
The Financial Planning program focuses on providing sound financial advice for businesses and individuals. Students will learn to analyze personal financial data and the economic climate to prepare recommendations in clients’ best interest. The program examines professional issues in financial planning, including ethical considerations; regulation and certification requirements; written and oral communication skills; and professional responsibility. An emphasis is placed on analysis of data and critical thinking regarding the client’s circumstances.
Students focus on applying and synthesizing financial planning concepts and techniques to a client’s circumstances and develop a course of action based on accepted financial planning methods. The objectives of the program include acquiring the knowledge, empathy and understanding of a financial planning client; sharpening the ability to spot and evaluate financial planning issues in a client’s circumstances; and effectively developing and integrating issues in a holistic financial plan.
Financial planning students at USF’s St. Petersburg campus can also conveniently use the prestigious Bank of America Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Center located in Lynn Pippenger Hall and gain serious investment experience through the $500,000 Student Managed Investment Fund. In addition, students can also make use of the great internship opportunities thanks to strong ties with St. Petersburg’s booming financial industry. This degree program is registered with the Certified Financial Planning (CFP) Board, so personal financial planning graduates are eligible to sit for the CFP exam.
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR IN PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNING
Always refer to the Undergraduate Catalog for degree requirements. Students will normally begin progress toward the major by taking at least one course from the major core, as these often serve as prerequisites for the electives. Students are urged to consult with the personal financial planning advisor to create the most beneficial set of courses.
QUESTIONS?
For questions about this program, contact an Academic Advisor.