Frequently Asked Questions
Would I be a good distance student?
Answer:
Course materials, tests and case studies are all completed through the K-State Online course management system. Some courses have supplemental materials on videos or textbooks. All course meetings will be delivered through weekly Zoom meetings (student account provided by K-State) and are recorded for those who cannot attend the live session. Students interact with faculty and one another through email, Zoom conferencing and the Canvas classroom, but complete courses in their free time.
See the system requirements for K-State Online.
There is no way to differentiate a degree obtained via distance learning from an on-campus degree.
Is this program flexible enough to fit my busy schedule?
Answer:
Kansas State University’s Personal Financial Planning graduate certificate program allows you to earn your certificate entirely online, without interrupting your job or relocating. Through the flexibility of online study, you can make the program fit your schedule, while still learning from respected faculty at a distinguished university.
How many students are in each cohort?
Answer:
For the duration of the program, you will work with knowledgeable faculty who all hold a Ph.D. and CFP® certification and a cohort of up to 25 professional peers. Having the same mentor and classmates throughout your courses will enable you to develop relationships and find the support you need as your prepare for your financial planning career.
What if I decide to pursue the master’s degree in the future?
Answer:
All 18 credit hours are fully transferable into our 30-credit master's degree. If you decide at a later date to complete the master's, you will have up to six years from the time you begin the certificate program to finish your degree.
What steps do I take to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™?
Answer:
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
To become certified, candidates are required to meet four initial certification requirements known as the four E’s:
When will I be qualified to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination?
Answer:
Upon completion of the CFP Board-Registered certificate program, you will be eligible to sit for the CFP® Examination. Completing an additional exam review and study is recommended before sitting for the exam. CFP Board has said most certificants do best when taking the exam two to six months after completing a program. Learn more about preparing for the CFP® Examination here.