Course Summary
The Professional Diploma in Financial Planning, awarded by University College Dublin (UCD), is a highly regarded postgraduate qualification (level 9), designed for those working in, or who would like to develop a career in, financial planning and wealth management. Award When you successfully complete this programme, you will be awarded a Professional Diploma in Financial Planning from UCD. This is a level 9 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
Relevant honours degree (second class honours, grade 2 award, minimum) in business or a related discipline
or
Equivalent relevant professional qualification (e.g.) Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA), with three years’ relevant work experience obtained in the banking or financial services industry, Chartered Tax Advisers (CTAs), accountants, solicitors and barristers.
Candidates should also have a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel before starting on the programme.
Professional body membership
You must be a member, or become a member of IOB to undertake this programme.
Application Details
Next intake: Autumn Trimester (2024/2025 academic year)
Please note that the programme content and fees are subject to change in the 2024/2025 academic year. Any changes will be outlined in the 2024/2025 prospectus and at iob.ie in August - the start of the new academic year.
Fees
Asset Management - €1,100
Retirement Planning - €1,100
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Career Progression
Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning and / or The MSc in Financial Services Both programmes are awarded by UCD and are level 9 qualifications on the National Framework of Qualifications.
Designation
The programme acts as a gateway to the prestigious international designation Certified Financial Planner™ designation.
Financial Planning Standards Board Ireland (FPSB Ireland) require in addition to completing the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning, a candidate who wishes to become a Certified Financial Planner professional in the Republic of Ireland must;
Have successfully completed the certification exam set by FPSB Ireland
Have met the three year experience requirement in financial planning as set out by FPSB Ireland
Accept continuing obligations for certification, and
Commit to the ethics and standards required for CFP® professionals.
Continuous Professional Development
If you hold an IOB designation or a designation managed by IOB, CPD hours may be awarded on successful completion of this programme.
Duration
Delivery is 100% online.