Diploma of Financial Planning

If you’re interested in working in the financial services industry, then a Diploma of Financial Planning could be the perfect way to get started. Learn how to work as an Australian financial planner and put yourself in the best situation possible for further learning about retirement planning, giving financial advice, risk management, how to develop a good client relationship and more!

What is a Diploma of Financial Planning (FNS50615)?

A Diploma is one step up from a Certificate IV and prepares you to work at a basic level in the industry and to complete further study and specialisation, such as an Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning.

Financial planning involves creating and implementing systems to maximise a person’s income over the years, whether to increase revenue or improve retirement outcomes. During a course you’ll be required to complete a number of core units as well as possibly some elective units, role-play scenario’s, case studies, and work placement or work experience. Some of these units may include:

• FNSASICX503 Provide Advice In Life Insurance
• FNSASICU503 Provide Advice In Superannuation
• BSBITU402 Develop And Use Complex Spreadsheets
• FNSINC401 Apply Principles Of Professional Practice To Work In The Financial Services Industry 
• FNSIAD501 Provide Appropriate Services, Advice and Products to Clients
• FNSFPL506 Determine Client Financial Requirements and Expectations
• FNSFPL505 Review Financial Plans and Provide Ongoing Services
• FNSFPL504 Implement Financial Plan 
• FNSFPL502 Conduct Financial Planning Analysis and Research 
• FNSFPL503 Develop and Prepare Financial Plan
• FNSFPL501 Comply With Financial Planning Practice Ethical and Operational Guidelines and Regulations
• FNSCUS506 Record and Implement Client Instructions
• FNSCUS505 Determine Client Requirements and Expectations
• FNSASICZ503 Provide Advice in Financial Planning
• FNSINC501 Conduct Product Research To Support Recommendations

Why Study a Diploma of Financial Planning?

Studying a Diploma of Financial Planning get’s you work-ready, and helps you complete all of your compulsory or advised enrolments in official bodies such as ASIC and the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority. Doing a Diploma also shows employers that you’re ready to start work in estate planning, as a paraplanner, or managed investments professional, as you’ve completed education requirements that teach you about decision making, client relationship building and more that will set you up as a solid employment choice. Alternatively, a Diploma of Financial Planning gives you further study options, including the opportunity to go on and complete a graduate diploma of financial planning.

How to study

If you want to enrol in a Diploma of Financial Planning, there are several ways to get started.

If you’ve already completed prior learning, or have worked in the industry, then you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning. (RPL) If you need to update your literacy or numeracy skills in order to meet entry requirements, then you may be able to complete short courses that will provide you with units of competency to complete that will prepare you for your Diploma. 

International students should check with CRICOS before choosing to enrol.

Depending on the education provider, there is a range of student services available. Many offer both part-time and full-time study options, as well as a range of course fees, start dates, face-to-face or online study options, tuition fees and course durations. 

Career outcomes

The specific roles that a graduate of the Diploma of Financial Planning can obtain, include:

• Financial Planner
• Paraplanner
• Client Service Officer
• Financial Advisor
• Financial Investment Manager

What you’ll learn

In this course, you’ll learn how to use and develop complex spreadsheets, develop a financial plan, manage quality customer service and conduct financial planning analysis and research.

So if you think a Diploma of Financial Planning could be for you, browse our list of available courses above!