Financial Counseling and Planning

Iowa State’s financial counseling and planning degree is the only undergraduate program of its kind offered in Iowa! Our curriculum will prepare you for professional work helping people through the complex process of financial decision making by providing them with advice on investments, insurance, mortgages, college savings, estate planning, taxes, and retirement. You’ll learn in the classroom and be able to gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings while you’re in school.

Careers in Financial Counseling and Planning

Graduates with a financial counseling and planning degree are prepared for employment in organizations committed to improving the financial capability of individuals and families. Examples of organizations are:

Careers and Internships

As a graduate of the financial counseling and planning program, you will be well-prepared to guide clients in developing successful strategies to achieve financial goals and to support clients as they work through financial challenges and opportunities.  You are also able to pursue advanced educational options in graduate programs.

Career Services
Prepare for your next job or internship with Career Services, where staff help you with job or internship searches, interview preparation, and resume/cover letter reviews.

Internships

See where other students have interned. Visit Career Connections.

Financial Counseling and Planning Program Information

The Financial Counseling and Planning program is a CFP Board-Registered Program that meets specific criteria for educating individuals who wish to fulfill the education component for obtaining CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification. Earning the CFP® professional designation prepares you to be a more accomplished and effective adviser by providing the knowledge, credibility, and expertise needed to set you apart.

The Financial Counseling and Planning program is also an AFCPE® Registered Education Program which offers students the opportunity to earn their Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) certification that enhances their degree and marks the highest standard of excellence in the field of financial counseling and education.

Financial Counseling and Planning

Curriculum Requirements
Curriculum Sheet

4-Year Plans
Sample 4-year plan

Katie’s Financial Counseling and Planning Career Path

Katie didn’t know financial planning could be a major — until she discovered Iowa State’s Financial Counseling and Planning program, the university’s only pathway to becoming a Certified Financial Planner™. Finding a major she was passionate about set her on a path filled with opportunity, connection, and career clarity.

Katie shares how Iowa State’s personalized approach helped her thrive. From one-on-one conversations with professors to career support from her advisor, she found a tight-knit community within a large university.

Katie’s summer internship led to a full-time job offer before she started her senior year.

Financial Counseling Clinic

Our department has the first-in-the-nation campus Financial Counseling Clinic. Students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning experiences in the Financial Counseling Laboratory and field experience. FCP students also have the option to complete the Financial Planning Capstone, which offers a real-world experience that prepares students to guide clients through life-cycle financial education to help them realize their goals and achieve lasting financial well-being.

Take Your Education Abroad

Studying abroad is an opportunity to broaden your educational perspectives and personal view of the world. International opportunities are available through the College of Health and Human Sciences International Programs office.

Graduate Program Preparation

Some students may choose to further their education with a graduate degree, such as a Juris Doctor (JD) in law or a master of family financial planning.