This degree is only available to Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Humanitarian Visa holders)
Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2019
Start Date
January, April, July, September
Duration
3 year(s) full-time
Mode
Online
Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result:
Higher education study
- Successfully completed equivalent to a minimum of half a year of full-time study of a higher education program at a recognised higher education provider
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Completed an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a UniSA Foundations Studies program or equivalent, or
- Qualify for Special Entry
OR
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Graduate as a qualified financial planner with a degree approved by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA).
- Use your degree as a pathway into the Financial Planning Association of Australia’s (FPA) CFP® Certification Program.
- Build the technical and professional skills needed to prepare detailed financial plans.
- Learn to develop financial and legal documentation that meet regulatory requirements.
- Explore personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, financial risk management, and estate planning.
- Learn to use XPLAN, the most widely used financial planning software in Australia.
- Join a university ranked in the top 150 institutions in the world for Accounting and Finance
(2017 QS subject rankings). - The University of South Australia Business School is in the top one per cent worldwide* and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2018.
(*UniSA Business School is one of just nine institutions in the country and 176 globally to be accredited by EQUIS. There are a total pool of 16,521 business schools worldwide, AACSB, May 2017).
Snapshot
The Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) is approved by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) and will equip you with the essential educational requirements to practice as a financial planner under new Australian regulations.
From superannuation and tax to estate planning and risk management, this degree prepares you to navigate the complex financial planning landscape and will help you develop critical skills to work with a range of clients with short and long-term financial goals.
As one of the leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia, you can be confident you’re gaining a high-quality university degree that equips you with in-demand knowledge and skills the financial planning industry is telling us they need.
Graduates will also meet the relevant RG146 compliance requirement of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, and be eligible for membership of the Financial Planning Association of Australia’s Certified Financial Planner® Certification Program.
What you'll learn
You’ll start with a solid foundation of business, before moving into your financial planning specialisation. You’ll develop a strong skill set in areas such as personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, investment management, financial risk management, insurance planning and tax planning.
This degree has a strong focus on real-world, practical learning. As a student, you’ll learn to prepare a Statement of Advice for a client using XPlan – the most widely used financial planning software in Australia. Throughout your studies, you’ll use databases like Morningstar to research financial products, investigate real-world case studies from UniSuper, one of Australia’s largest superannuation funds and be involved in statistical analysis and ‘trading games’ using real industry data.
As a graduate, we’ll make sure you stand out from the crowd. You’ll learn contemporary career planning strategies and techniques to enhance your employability and achieve your career goals. You’ll also have opportunities to connect with the leading industry body, the Financial Planners Association (FPA) and other industry professionals.
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
We have some great tools that will help you organise your study schedule. Your personalised learning planner allows you to keep on top of assessments and study workload while managing work and personal commitments.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports
Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.
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Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. This course is common to all UniSA Online degrees and will be offered multiple times each year to enable students to commence their program of study at any time. Students who are studying part-time must take this course first before they study any other courses in their chosen degree. Students who are studying full time may take this course and one other course in the same study period. This course must be successfully completed before students can progress in the degree.
2. Assessment requirements for this degree include at least one online exam. The online exam software has system compatibility requirements, specifically that tablets, hybrid devices and mobile devices are not supported. Please refer to the online exam requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer and software is compatible to undertake the exam.
Notes
1. Students who have completed a qualification in a business discipline at AQF Diploma level or equivalent and assessed to receive 36 units block credit, will be granted credit for this course.
Why Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)
Under new national regulations, people looking to start their career as a financial planner will need to study a FASEA-approved degree from 2019. As a result, the Financial Planning Association (FPA) predicts there will be a shortage of financial planners and a high demand for newly-qualified graduates. There is no better time to launch your career.
Course content has been designed and developed with leading industry experts to ensure that what you learn is practical and relevant. Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to cutting-edge research associated with meeting client-specific needs in light of complex regulatory requirements.
Our Centre for Applied Finance and Economics provides multi-disciplinary research on the dynamics of domestic and global economies and financial systems, bringing together economists, accountants and finance specialists from a range of backgrounds.
You’ll also be able to build your professional network through our Business Career Mentor Program which pairs you with an experienced business professional. The six-month program is offered online and runs from March every year.
The role of a financial planner extends beyond investing money. It’s a valued profession that empowers individuals to make informed financial decisions for themselves and their families.
As a financial planner, your career options are endless. You could find yourself working at financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds, financial advisory firms – or you could be self-employed and set up your own practice. Financial planners can also choose to specialise in a number of areas, such as tax planning, risk management or retirement planning.
Under new national regulations, people looking to start their career as a financial planner will need to study an accredited degree from January 2019. All financial planners currently working in industry will need to complete a FASEA-approved degree by 2024 in order to continue practising.
In addition to new education standards, financial planners are required to meet new professional requirements set by FASEA. This includes completing a professional year, passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and completing a code of ethics course.
Careers to consider include:
- Qualified financial planner or financial adviser:
Help clients meet their short-term and long-term financial goals; assist with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; provide advice on personal investments and security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and deliver a high-quality customer experience. - Investment manager:
Develop financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitor investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buy and sell stocks and bonds for clients; and provide advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate. - Insurance broker:
Research and review available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arrange insurance, home loan mortgages and other types of finance for clients through banks, lenders, financiers and insurance companies; help clients understand insurance policy conditions, risks, premium rates and benefits; prepare reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals. - Estate planner:
Provide clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long-term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; help ensure any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and develop estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries. - Superannuation consultant:
Provide compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpret new legislation changes and consider the impact of those changes on the portfolio of funds, help clients understand the merits of Self Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF), and develop retirement plan strategies. - Wealth manager:
Deliver holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; provide services across a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, and financial advice on pensions, trusts, inheritances, estate planning, retirement planning, and tax bands; and possess knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry. - Client relationship manager:
Proactively engage clients by providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice; identify opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; research the latest products and regulations; and focus on delivering a high-quality customer experience.
Professional accreditation
This program is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program.
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Four start dates in January, April, July and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- 24/7 access to learning resources
- Online student support services seven days a week
- All content available from the start of your course
- Flexible around your life
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Online credit check
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. In fact, UniSA undergraduates studying online have graduate employment rates well above the national average1.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1Graduate Outcomes Survey 2017
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online tutor support seven days a week
Our tutors provide highly personalised support tailored to your needs. Along with guidance on assignments, they’ll provide advice on writing and referencing. If you have a question related to your course, you can expect to receive a response within 24 hours. Tutors are available seven days a week, including weeknights.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment is a one-stop-shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
Industry facts
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Internet Explorer 10, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java, and in some cases Flash (devices running on Apple's iOS operating system, such as iPads, iPhones, do not run Flash)
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to Lynda.com - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Skype for Business, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
- Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. - Receive your conditional offer
Once you complete the eligibility checker, you’ll receive an email with your conditional offer to start studying with UniSA Online. It will have all the information you need to complete your application. - Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Alternative Pathways
- complete the UniSA College Foundation Studies
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September and admissions are open all year round. You can apply immediately or at least a few weeks before the Study Period you wish to start in.
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Are there set times where I'll have to be online?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses will also have a requirements to speak to your tutor via phone/skype at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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Does studying online mean studying on my own?
A common myth about studying online is that you are on your own. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Our 24/7 interactive learning environment will connect you with a community of other like-minded students and provide forums for you to share, debate and collaborate ideas with your peers and tutors.
You’ll have access to a number of online communication tools that facilitate student-to-student interactions and online ‘study groups’:
- Chat to Online Course Facilitators through interactive forums
- Interact in real time with other students in your degree
- Hold virtual study groups with students who live interstate
- Access chat facilities within the online learning platform
Just because you are studying online, doesn’t mean you miss out on face-to-face interaction – our staff use video calls and online communication tools to communicate with students. Our team of Student Advisers offer live online webinars for enrolment, orientation and tips for online study.
You’ll also be connected to our team of student advisers, tutors and support staff who will help you stay on course, providing personalised one-to-one assistance all the way from enrolment to graduation. Help is just a call or click away.
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How flexible is my degree?
You’ll be able to dial up and down your studies to fit study into your life. You can choose to study 1 or 2 courses each term, or take a term off if you’re busy with work and personal commitments. If there are times when you can’t meet assessment due dates because of other commitments, we’ll work with you individually, on a case by case basis to assess your requirements and make alternative arrangements.
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What sort of career prospects do I have with an online qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. In fact, we’re ranked in the top ten in Australia for external student full time employment.
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you will gain from each type of education method will be the same, it's just how you get there that's different. Online means that your course material will be delivered via the internet and you will communicate with tutors and fellow students via this method as well as over the phone/skype. You can also study in your own time at your own pace.
On Campus teaching requires you to come on campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. You will also have additional reading to do from home. You will have face to face contact with your tutor and fellow students but might also use email and online discussion boards for communication.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance Education has been superseded by online education.