Uno launches CFP Board-registered financial planning program

This UNO financial planning education program—the first approved at a Nebraska system college of business—prepares students for careers in financial planning, one of the fastest-growing areas of finance. The development of an undergraduate minor and a certificate in financial planning are also planned. This education program was carefully designed to align with the educational requirements for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation.

UNO’s financial planning curriculum delivers comprehensive training across essential areas of the financial planning profession, including financial planning fundamentals, retirement planning, employee benefits, estate planning, income tax, insurance, and investing. Students gain the skills to assess client needs, develop personalized financial planning strategies, and provide informed guidance across a wide range of financial planning scenarios. Students completing the financial planning program at the University of Nebraska at Omaha will meet the coursework requirement for CFP® certification and be eligible to sit for the CFP® certification exam administered by CFP Board.

Graduates of the program will be well-positioned for careers as financial planners, wealth management advisors, retirement specialists, and financial consultants—roles experiencing strong growth nationwide. They will be prepared to enter a career field known for strong earning potential, professional growth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in clients’ lives. As demand for professionals who can help individuals navigate complex financial decisions increases, CFP® certification remains one of the most respected and career-advancing credentials in the industry.

CFP Board is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that consists of two affiliated nonprofit organizations, both focused on achieving their strategic priorities. The mission of CFP Board of Standards, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, is to credential competent and ethical financial planners, uphold CFP® certification as the recognized standard and advance the financial planning profession. The mission of CFP Board Center for Financial Planning, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is to advance competent and ethical financial planning and expand CFP® professional diversity for the benefit of the public.

CFP Board currently oversees more than 360 programs at more than 200 institutions. CFP Board Registered Programs are financial planning education programs at the college or university level that meet specific criteria for educating individuals who wish to fulfill the education component for obtaining CFP® certification.

Those who earn CFP® certification distinguish themselves among their financial planner peers by meeting CFP Board’s education, examination, experience, and ethics requirements.

“Financial planning is a fast-growing and impactful field in business today,” said Brian Payne, Ph.D., CFP®, professor of finance and current director of UNO’s program. “This program equips UNO students with both the technical knowledge and preparation based on realistic scenarios needed to succeed in a profession that directly improves people’s financial well-being.”

UNO’s program emphasizes applied learning and strong industry connections. Students will learn from both UNO faculty and those with professional experience and gain access to Omaha’s robust financial services sector. Firms in the local area routinely advertise internship opportunities that provide valuable hands-on experience and potential career pathways in financial planning.

“UNO connects classroom learning with real-world experience,” said Patty Bick, Ph.D., associate professor of finance and department chair. “Through this program, we are preparing the next generation of financial planning professionals to make a meaningful impact in their communities and the global economy.”