The diploma includes a subject on residential property lending
Massey University and Kaplan Professional have rolled out a new purpose-built qualification that will provide financial advisers in New Zealand with the opportunity to set themselves apart from the crowd.
The 100% online Diploma in Business Studies (Financial Advice) is available for financial advisers who have completed an eligible and equivalent level 5 qualification from any institution in New Zealand, enabling them to achieve a higher qualification by just completing two additional subjects, including residential property lending.
“Undertaking the diploma in advance of any required regulatory changes will place financial advice advice providers and advisers themselves at a competitive advantage,” said Jeff Stangl (pictured above left), Massey Business School international and strategic partnerships director.
Completing the diploma provides advisers entry plus credits into Massey University’s Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) – a one-of-its kind qualification in New Zealand.
To achieve the diploma, advisers must complete any two of the following specialist electives within 12 months:
- client engagement skills
- ethics in financial advice
- investment
- life, disability, and health insurance
- general insurance
- residential property lending
The diploma is focused on developing fundamental financial advice skills, especially with the Financial Markets Authority placing great emphasis on client engagement and the ethical and professional obligations of advisers.
“The diploma offers an engaging and valuable learning experience to advisers that is a step up from the current standard, so each elective is written and delivered by a hand-picked team of industry practitioners and subject matter experts,” said Brian Knight (pictured above right), Kaplan Professional CEO.
“The client engagement skills elective enables advisers to delve deeper into behavioural finance concepts, while exploring how emotional intelligence and critical thinking can assist them to better understand the different perspectives of their clients.
“The Financial Advice Code is a critical component of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013, so the ethics elective examines the ethical and professional obligations of advisers through a broad philosophical lens, helping them to better navigate complex situations that they may encounter when engaging clients in the advice process.
“We think the diploma sets a new industry benchmark, offering a cutting-edge and innovative learning experience like no other for those who are eager to stand out from their peers in a competitive environment.”
Intakes commence every second month and run for 12 weeks each, with the next available intake starting on June 5.
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