Financial Training Offers New Careers as Financial Sector Evolves

The financial industry is in the middle of a major change as rationalization and consolidation reduce the number of traditional entry-level jobs such as bank tellers. However, countering this evolution are other factors that are creating more stimulating and higher-skilled positions. They include more of a marketing-focused industry, increased competition, demographics, advances in technology and a global financial environment. To enter financial services positions in places such as banks, credit unions, financial planning organizations, investment and mutual fund companies and more, you must attend a post-secondary financial training program, such as the one offered by Centennial College, which is designed to be completed in eight months.

Upon graduation, students are guaranteed to find a meaningful career as continued growth in the financial services sector provides exciting employment opportunities for qualified individuals. “Many people end up working for banks and some people work for mutual fund companies selling mutual funds or advising on mutual funds to the general public. I am confident that in eight months, if you pass the exams, if you meet the standard, there are jobs available,” says Harvey Willows, a professor in the financial training program.

But what can you expect during the eight months you spend at Centennial College? First and foremost, experienced faculty members who are professionals from the industry deliver courses. This is important as it reassures students that the knowledge they are obtaining is based on both academic theory and professional experience. Courses within the financial training program include: Financial Accounting (concentrates on the recording process and the production of financial statements), Mathematics of Finance (students will review basic algebra as applied to business issues), Professional Selling (intended to provide background to the development of successful sales presentation skills that will enhance the participants ability to develop sales presentations to satisfy customer needs and wants), and more. Another important course is the Canadian Investments Funds course, which will lead students to a license to sell mutual funds. (This will incur costs in addition to regular tuition)

An additional benefit is the opportunity for graduates to continue their education into the two-year program where in one additional year they can enhance their qualifications. This enables them to pursue lucrative careers in the broader financial services industry

Centennial College expects students applying for admission to this financial training to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, students must have completed the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11C, M or U, or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent. Students will be placed in the appropriate English and math levels based on skills assessment results. This may lead to additional courses and require extra time and fees. However, it sound be noted that meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to financial services program.