Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP)
Apply now for spring 2025!
Whitworth's Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) is designed to help you rise to the task of serving individuals, families and companies as they prepare for a lifetime of financial well-being. Learn how to effectively steward client resources while upholding the highest ethical standards to put them on a path toward a secure future. Whitworth's MSFP will help you develop a thriving, relationship-oriented career, allowing you to effectively communicate your value as you build relationship with your clients.
"Four out of five consumers prefer a financial advisor who takes all areas of their financial life into account." – CFP Board
| Degree Snapshot | |
|---|---|
| Credits | 30 - for those with no CFP certification 18 - for CFP-certified professionals (12-credit waiver) |
| Class Format | Online with three on-site residencies; electives available online or in person (CFP+ may choose between online and in-person) |
| Cost Per Credit | $950* per credit (financial aid & scholarships available) |
| Application Deadline | Rolling admissions Start in fall (August) or spring (January) semesters |
| Completion Time | 10-17 months** |
* For the 2024-25 academic year
** Starting in the fall semester allows for the shortest time to degree completion
Program Highlights
- Complete your degree in as little as 10 months.
- Prepare to sit for the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) Exam.
- Online evening courses offer flexibility for your busy life.
- One of the few graduate degrees in financial planning to offer concentrations with elective courses available either in person or online.
- Enjoy immersive learning experiences through weekend intensives and overnight retreats.
- Benefit from extensive networking and community engagement opportunities.
Certification Preparation
Graduates will be prepared to successfully sit for the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) Exam as it includes specific coursework tailored to the CFP® Exam and student learning outcomes sought by the CFP Board.
"86 percent of consumers prefer an advisor who has passed a certification exam and a rigorous education program." – CFP Board
Careers in Financial Planning
Demand for personal financial advisors is expected to grow at a faster than average rate of 7 percent through 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earning CFP® certification is a solid investment in your future, as its trusted and sought after by firms and clients alike (source: CFP® Board – Why Get Certified).
Career options include:
- Client Associate
- Stockbroker
- Insurance Agent
- Estate Planner
- Banker
- Credit Union Worker
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Manager
- Financial Paraplanner
- Financial Planner
- Wealth Advisor
- Wealth Manager
Find more information at CFP Board Career Center.
Accreditation
Whitworth University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which you can learn more about on our Accreditation page. The Whitworth University School of Business is an accredited member of AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
"Less than 5 percent of all schools offering degree programs in business at the bachelor level or higher worldwide hold AACSB accreditation."
As the world's largest business education alliance, AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) connects educators, students, and business to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders. Synonymous with the highest standards of excellence since 1916, AACSB provides quality assurance, business education intelligence, and professional development services to over 1,500 member organizations and more than 785 accredited business schools worldwide. With its global headquarters in Tampa, Florida, USA; Europe, Middle East, and Africa headquarters in Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore, AACSB's mission is to foster engagement, accelerate innovation, and amplify impact in business education. For more information, visit aacsb.edu.
Whitworth University is a CFP Board Registered program.