FYCS provides the coursework needed to sit for the exam to become an Accredited Financial Counselor. The AFC® certification is given by the Association of Financial Counseling & Planning Education® (AFCPE®) and is designed to ensure financial professionals provide financial education and guidance. An AFC®:
- Educates clients in sound financial principles.
- Assist clients in the process of overcoming their financial indebtedness.
- Help clients identify and modify ineffective money management behaviors.
- Guide clients in developing successful strategies for achieving their financial goals.
- Support clients as they work through their financial challenges and opportunities.
- Help clients develop new perspectives on the dynamics of money in relation to family, friends and individual self-esteem.
The following are some career path examples for accredited financial counselors:
- Government or Military Careers in Financial Counseling
- Education or Academia
- Private Practice
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Cooperative Extension
Sample career titles:
- Work/Life Specialist/Consultant
- Certified Personal Financial Counselor
- Accredited Financial Counselor
- Work and Family Life Consultant
- Financial Planning Counselor
- Command Financial Specialist
- SFL-TAP Financial Counselor
- Personal Financial Readiness Specialist
- Emergency Financial Assistance Specialist
- Case Manager/Worker
The AFC® Core Competencies serve as an outline for the exam and are included in course work required to sit for the exam. An AFC® will:
- Set the Stage and Gather Client Information
- Assist a Client in Creating an Action Plan
- Educate a Client about Financial Statements, Ratios, and Spending Plans
- Manage Money
- Educate a Client about Credit and Debt
- Educate a Client about Major Acquisitions
- Manage Financial Risks
- Discuss Investment Basics with a Client
- Educate a Client about the Financial Aspects of Retirement and Estate Planning
Students interested in pursuing the Accredited Financial Counselor certification must complete the following courses in addition to sitting for the AFC exam.
FYC3005, Intro to Personal and Family Financial Planning
Management of personal and family financial resources throughout the life span. A study of individual and family finances as related to planning, credit, saving, investment, insurance, taxes, housing costs, transportation costs, retirement, and estate planning.
- Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or higher
- Offered: All semesters
FYC4003, Personal and Family Financial Counseling
Examines family economics and resource management issues and impact on the well-being of family across the major transitions of the family life-cycle. The complex process of financial decision-making and the role of the financial counselor are addressed.
- Prerequisite: FYC 3005
- Offered: Spring semesters
For more information on AFC® certification, please visit the AFCPE® website.
For more information on the FYCS program please contact:
Dr. Martie Gillen
Professor
mgillen@ufl.edu
