CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Certification Education Program

General Principles and Psychology of Financial Planning
CPEs: 33.5      CEUs: 2.8
This course provides an overview of the financial planning process and the economic and legal environments it takes place, the time value of money, the analysis of financial statements, and the code of ethics and professional responsibility to which practitioners must adhere.

Objectives: Upon completion, students are able to:

• Perform time value of money calculations by understanding the underlying concepts and utilizing technology.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the interrelatedness of insurance, investments, retirement planning, income tax, and estate planning in the financial planning process and how the changing economic environment affects that process.
• Identify and quantify debt management and education planning objectives, as well as overall financial objectives of a client, through evaluation of financial statements and other data.
• Assess deficiencies, recommend corrections, and develop and maintain a financial plan.
• Articulate the code of ethics and professional responsibility to which practitioners must adhere, plus the Financial Planning Practice Standards employed during each step of the Financial Planning process

Insurance and Risk Management
CPEs: 30     CEUs: 2.8
This course will give an overview of risk assessment and the management of risk through a variety of insurance instruments.

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Communicate the concepts of risk assessment in a manner understandable to clients.
• Address the broad range of insurance instruments and how they may be evaluated and employed to manage the risk of loss of income and risks associated with property ownership and legal liabilities.
• Incorporate insurance into a client’s overall financial plan.
• Understand the ethical aspects of insurance advising.

Investment Planning
CPEs: 40.5     CEUs: 3.4
This course will provide an overview of investment terminology and the fundamentals of investing, including the efficient market hypothesis, the role of financial intermediaries, securities trading, risk, and portfolio theory. Special attention will be paid to the analysis and selection of common stocks and fixed-income securities.

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Assess a client’s risk tolerance and exposure to determine which investments provide the best approach to reach the objectives of the client’s financial plan.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of common stock and fixed-income securities and the variety of ways these instruments may be analyzed.
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of riskier vehicles such as options, commodities, and financial futures.
• Utilize a wide range of resources to evaluate various investment vehicles and strategies.
• Employ the concepts of portfolio planning and management to provide diversification to a client’s portfolio with sensitivity to tax considerations.
• Explain the taxation of investment vehicles.
• Apply the ethical aspects of investment advising in their practice.

Income Taxation Planning
CPEs: 40.5     CEUs: 3.4
This course will give an overview of the federal tax system and its impact on financial planning for individuals and business entities.

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Access and apply the resources that are required to meet the challenge of annual changes to the tax code.
• Explain income taxation fundamentals, tax consequences, and tax computations.
• Identify the options available to individuals and business owners for reducing their tax burdens while preserving their wealth accumulation strategies.
• Recognize the ethical and legal implications of tax advising.

Retirement and Employee Benefits Planning
CPEs: 40.5     CEUs: 3.4
This course will introduce and explore the concepts involved in developing retirement and employee benefit plans from both the employer and employee perspectives. Participants will study the legislation that impacts plan design and the tax advantages and disadvantages of various qualified and non-qualified plans, including IRAs and pension and profit-sharing plans. Also addressed will be Federal Social Security, Medicare, and employer-sponsored health and welfare plans.

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Define and differentiate between the types of plans that can be developed.
• Analyze a client’s financial health and develop the most advantageous retirement and employee benefit options to meet the long-term needs expressed in the overall financial plan.
• Identify the needs and objectives of businesses to determine the best design for their employee retirement and benefit plans.

Estate Planning
CPEs: 40.5     CEUs: 3.4
This course will provide students with an understanding of the basic concepts and constraints of estate and gift tax planning as the primary method of orderly and intentional wealth transfer. They will learn the major strategies employed by practitioners when developing estate plans.

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of wills, trusts, and estates.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the concepts of risk management, insurance, portfolio management, retirement planning, and taxation, and how they are synthesized in the estate and gift tax planning process.
• Analyze and evaluate a client’s financial and non-financial status and goals in order to develop, communicate, and implement the most advantageous estate and gift tax plan.

Financial Plan Development Course
CPEs: 46.5     CEUs: 3.9
This capstone course will allow students to apply the knowledge they have gained through the curriculum in a synthesized manner. Included in this course is a module on improving communications with clients. One class will be devoted to presenting how to use the financial planning process to set client expectations and answer any questions or concerns clients have before agreeing to a financial planning engagement.  

Objectives: Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the content found within the financial planning curriculum and effectively apply and integrate this information in the formulation of a financial plan.
• Effectively communicate the financial plan, both orally and in writing, including information based on research, peers, colleagues, or simulated client interaction, and/or results emanating from material synthesis.
• Collect all necessary and relevant qualitative and quantitative information required to develop a financial plan.
• Analyze personal financial situations, evaluating clients’ objectives, needs, and values to develop an appropriate strategy within the financial plan.
• Demonstrate logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of various approaches to a specific problem.
• Evaluate the impact of economic, political, and regulatory issues concerning the financial plan.
  Apply the CFP Board Financial Planning Practice Standards to the financial planning process.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the United States, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete initial and ongoing certification requirements.

The Glasscock School of Continuing Studies at Rice University does not certify individuals to use the CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and federally registered CFP® (with flame logo). CFP® certification is granted solely by the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Board of Standards, Inc. to individuals who, in addition to completing an educational requirement such as this CFP® Board-Registered Program, have met ethics, experience, and examination requirements.

Rice Certificate of Achievement

Whether you choose the classroom or online format, you will complete seven consecutive courses in approximately ten months in preparation for the exam. Each course offers a series of quizzes, a mid-term exam, and a final exam delivered online outside of regular class hours. Upon successfully completing each course with a grade of at least 70, students will be awarded a Rice University Certificate of Achievement, which fulfills the educational requirements to apply and sit for the CFP examination. The exam is administered by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. Completion of the Rice CFP Certification Education Program does not guarantee success on the CFP Certification Examination. Therefore, individuals planning to take the exam should also consider an exam preparation course.

• Financial Planners
• Accountants
• Investment advisors
• Stockbrokers
• Trust officers
• Attorneys
• Bankers
• Retirement or benefits specialists
• Insurance agents
• Investors

Attention CPAs:
We have registered with the Texas State Board of Accountancy (Registration no. 600) to meet the requirements of the continuing professional education rules covering maintenance of attendance records, retention of program outlines, qualifications of instructors, program content, physical facilities, and length of class hours. This registration agreement does not constitute an endorsement by the Board as to the quality of the program or its contribution to the licensee's professional competence.

Rice University is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have the final authority to accept individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be addressed to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website learningmarket.org.

Careers
Search for a job using the CFP Board Career Center.

Course 1: General Principles and Psychology of Financial Planning

Nine Tuesdays and Thursdays, August 4 - September 1, 2026, 6-9 p.m. CST

Online final exam: Thursday, September 3, 2026, 6- 9 p.m. CST

Course 2: Insurance and Risk Management

Seven Tuesdays and Thursdays, September 8-29, 2026, 6 -9 p.m. CST

Online final exam: Thursday, October 1, 2026, 6-9 p.m. CST

Course 3: Investment Planning

Ten Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 6 - November 5, 2026, 6-9 p.m. CST

Online final exam: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 6:00-9:00 p.m. CST

Course 4: Income Taxation Planning

Ten Tuesdays and Thursdays, November 12 - December 17, 2026, 6-9 p.m. CST

Skip date on November 26, 2026

Online final exam: Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 6-9 p.m. CST

Winter Break: December 24, 2026 - January 8, 2027

Course 5: Retirement and Employee Benefits Planning

Twelve Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 12 - February 18, 2027, 6 -9 p.m. CST

Online final exam: Tuesday, February 23, 2027, 6-9 p.m. CST

Course 6: Estate Planning

Ten Tuesdays and Thursdays, February 25 - April 6, 2027, 6-9 p.m. CST

Skip dates on March 9 & 11, 2027

Online final exam: Thursday, April 8, 2027, 6:00-9:00 p.m. CST

Course 7: Case Studies in Financial Planning 

Thirteen Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 13 - May 25, 2027, 6-9 p.m. CST

Final Presentations: May 20 and 25, 2027, 6-9 p.m. CST

*Schedule subject to change.

To successfully participate in the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® program, students are required to have access to the following technology, software, and systems:

• Computer or Laptop: A reliable computer or laptop with stable internet access, a webcam, and a microphone is essential for accessing course materials, participating in online discussions, and completing assignments and proctored exams.
• Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is essential for remote participation in lectures, accessing online resources, and completing assignments and assessments in the learning management system. This connection should support connectivity to the classroom and enable the use of a webcam during classes and exams.
• Web Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome is recommended for optimal performance with our learning management system.
• Email: A valid email address for communication with instructors, classmates, and program administrators.
• Virtual Meeting Software: This program is delivered through the Glasscock School’s Zoom-powered classroom, enabling students to attend classes in person on the Rice campus or remotely via Zoom. Access to Zoom is required for attending live lectures, participating in group discussions, and joining office hours.
• Learning Management System: Canvas is Rice's Learning Management System for all course-related curriculum needs.
• Financial Planning Software: Access to financial planning software is essential for completing assignments and projects. The Case Studies course and others utilize eMoney Advisor Software. Please note that while eMoney provides students access to their software, your authorization is required to release your name and email for eMoney advisor account access. You will be asked to sign a consent form authorizing Rice to request an eMoney account for you. This step ensures a seamless learning experience.
• Financial Calculator: A financial calculator is required for some coursework. The Hewlett-Packard HP10BII+ Calculator is recommended and is available at many office supply stores and online.
   
• Honorlock Proctoring System: This program uses Honorlock for proctored assessments. Set-up information will be provided prior to your first proctored assessment. To use Honorlock, students must download and install the Honorlock Google Chrome extension. To ensure that your browser can successfully run Honorlock, please navigate to the Honorlock Support page and conduct the "Minimum Requirement System Check" located towards the bottom of the page. This will verify that your system meets the minimum requirements necessary for using Honorlock. Students must ensure they take all exams using a reliable computer and a high-speed internet connection. Honorlock is not supported on mobile devices.
   
• Additional Requirements: Some courses may have specific technology requirements. Any additional requirements will be communicated by the instructor or Rice administrative staff at the beginning of the course.

Please ensure that you have access to these technologies and software before the start of the program to facilitate a smooth learning experience.

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance information can be found on Rice Financial Aid's Visiting and Continuing Education Students page.

Estimated Cost of Attendance (COA)

The total estimated cost of attendance for the CFP® Certification Education Program is $7,220, which includes:

• Tuition: $5,950
• Books & Materials (purchased separately): ~$1,270

Payment Plan Options

We offer a convenient seven-part payment plan that requires an $850 deposit at registration. The remaining six installments will be automatically charged every 30 days until your account is paid in full. Your account is considered paid in full once all seven payments are successfully processed. Please ensure your payment method is valid for automatic processing. To enroll, select ‘Pay deposit now’ and choose ‘Scheduled payments’ at checkout.

Scholarship Opportunities

In collaboration with the Continuing Scholars Endowment, Rice University Continuing Studies offers a limited number of partial scholarships for individuals pursuing CFP® certification through our education program. These awards are intended to support aspiring financial planners who are committed to making a positive impact in the field. To learn more or to apply, visit the CFP® Scholarship Application Portal.

Additionally, the CFP®Board's Center for Financial Planning offers national scholarship programs for those seeking to begin or complete the education requirement for certification. Learn more at the Center for Financial Planning.

Guild Education Partnership

Rice Continuing Studies is proud to partner with Guild Education, expanding access to high-quality, workforce-relevant education for employees of Guild's partner organizations. Learn more about our partnership with Guild or complete the Rice-Guild Application.

Refund & Withdrawal Policy

Due to high demand, all registrations are final 10 business days prior to the program start date. No refunds will be issued after this deadline. Refund requests submitted before the deadline are subject to a 10% processing fee based on the program's full published tuition. Requests must be made in writing to riceprofdev@rice.edu. If books have been issued, the cost of books and shipping will be deducted from the refund. Credit card refunds are processed to the original payment method and may take up to one billing cycle to appear. Check refunds may take up to six weeks to be processed and mailed by the Rice University accounting office. A $30 fee will be charged for any returned check due to insufficient funds.

For additional questions about payment, scholarships, or enrollment, please contact us at riceprofdev@rice.edu. 

“The Rice CFP Certification Education program exceeded all of my expectations. It was very well organized with top-notch instructors and provided me with a rigorous review of all of the topics in preparation for the exam. For anyone interested in sitting for the CFP exam, I would highly recommend enrolling in Rice’s program."

-Matt Caire, CFA, CFP®, CMT, Portfolio Manager for Fixed Income Investments at Vaughan Nelson

“The CFP Certification Education program at Rice was very rigorous, but with such interesting topics, it was also enjoyable. I appreciated the experience that each instructor was able to share, as they were all actively working in the respective fields they presented on and had real-world experiences to relate the material to. I certainly recommend this program to anyone wanting to pursue financial planning. It will prepare you with a solid foundation to then study for and sit for the CFP exam.”

- Vivecca A. Hartman, CFP®, CPA, Principal & Accounting Manager at Fayez Sarofiim & Co.

“This was hands-down one of the most rewarding experiences of my personal and professional life. I can’t even describe the overwhelming gratitude and achievement I felt once I completed the program and achieved my certification. I had an incredible experience at Rice University, where I was surrounded by a team of exceptional CFP® professionals and instructors who guided me through the year-long coursework and study process — it was not an easy feat. I’ve made and built relationships at Rice that will continue to serve me in my career and my personal life for years to come.”

- J. Andrew Colarusso, CFP®, Vice President, Mortgage Specialist, JPMorgan Private Bank