Kaplan Professional has announced the launch of a master of financial services degree program, a first in Australia and potentially worldwide.
The program is supported by nested postgraduate offerings, including the graduate diploma and graduate certificate in financial services, all of which have received approval from the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).
Designed for flexibility, the master of financial services program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes three core subjects and nine electives, selected from a pool of 39 options.
The electives span a broad range of financial disciplines, from financial advice and corporate finance to investment analysis and business intelligence, ensuring a tailored education experience. Two new core subjects, Introduction to Financial Services and Industry Project – Financial Services, aim to deepen understanding of Australia’s financial services landscape through practical, case-study projects.
Kaplan Professional CEO Brian Knight highlighted the program’s significance, noting its customisation and flexibility tailored to meet the diverse needs of Australia's financial services sector.
“One of the key reasons we introduced the master of financial services was due to feedback from many of our longstanding corporate clients who were looking for an industry-specific MBA of sorts – one that is designed to challenge individuals to go beyond the technical and learn the capabilities and skills to stand out from their peers as a changemaker, innovative thinker, and financial services leader,” Knight said.
“It has become clear to us at Kaplan Professional that the sector sees the value of education and corporate organisations investing in the learning and development of their employees; it enhances professionalism, fosters innovation, and contributes to the success of individuals and organisations in an increasingly complex and ever-changing financial services landscape.”
The program is particularly aimed at large financial institutions looking to upskill employees in alignment with strategic objectives and unique organizational contexts.
James Adonopoulos, Kaplan Professional academic dean professor, emphasised the program’s benefits for corporate organisations.
“It also introduces unprecedented opportunities for employers to customise the course when funding it on behalf of their employees because nine of the 12 subjects can be selected from a pool of 39 electives,” Adonopoulos said.“If none of those 39 elective subjects are suitable, our academic experts can work with employers to design new subjects that are.
“For those desiring a shorter commitment to postgraduate study, we have simultaneously launched a graduate certificate in financial services with just four subjects or a graduate diploma of financial services with eight – either way, the opportunity for employer-influenced customisation remains the same.”
The suite of postgraduate courses is expected to attract individuals aiming to enter or advance in the financial services industry, enhancing their qualifications with a distinct, industry-focused education. The program’s online format, complete with digital modules, forums, and resources, provides a dynamic learning environment that fits the professional and personal schedules of enrollees.
With six annual intakes, Kaplan Professional ensures accessibility and convenience for financial professionals seeking to balance educational advancement with other commitments. Enrollments are currently open, with multiple intake periods offered throughout the year to accommodate varying schedules.
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