Scholars in Finance Academy will be exposed to a number of finance designations should they want to pursue careers in those particular fields. These designations are rigorous, voluntary, and signal to employers and clients advanced knowledge, professionalism, and adherence to high ethical standards.
CFA - Chartered Financial Analyst - The recognized global standard for investment industry knowledge and expertise. Scholarships are available for Gies finance undergraduate and graduate students interested in taking the exams. Contact Professor Sterling Raskie for more information on scholarship opportunities.
CFP - Certified Financial Planner - Considered the gold standard for personal financial planning and wealth management. This designation shows a holder's expertise in the areas of financial, investment, estate, taxation, employee benefits, and insurance planning.
CPA - Certified Public Accountant - A state specific designation indicating the holder has passed the CPA exam and has met the specific work experience and education requirements to hold the designation. CPAs work in areas of auditing, forensic accounting, taxation, among others.
EA - Enrolled Agent - The highest designation awarded by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals after having passed three rigorous tax exams. Enrolled agents have unlimited practice rights, which means like attorneys and CPAs, they are unrestricted to which taxpayers they can represent, tax matters they can handle, and IRS offices they represent clients before.