Education and Designations

Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP) Practitioner: A credential granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., to individuals who complete a comprehensive curriculum in financial planning and ethics. This designation is awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification. CFP® professionals are dedicated to using the financial planning process to serve the financial needs of individuals, families and businesses. Most CFP professionals have earned a four-year college degree in a finance-related field, and have completed a course of study in financial planning approved by CFP Board.

Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS): The MSFS degree program provides a diverse financial education that prepares its graduates to advise their clients on a wide spectrum of advanced financial needs. MSFS classes include advanced studies on and analysis of pension and estate planning, financial planning, executive compensation, business and personal tax planning, security analysis, portfolio management, and financial statement analysis.

Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®): A professional designation awarded by the Center for Fiduciary Studies, associated with the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Executive Education. The AIF® professional designation demonstrates the focus on all the components of a comprehensive investment process, related fiduciary standards of care, and commitment to excellence. Since October 2002, the Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®) designation has been the mark of commitment to a standard of investment fiduciary excellence. Those who earn the AIF mark successfully complete a specialized program on investment fiduciary standards of care and subsequently passed a comprehensive examination. AIF designees demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Center for Fiduciary Studies’ Prudent Practices for investment advisors and stewards.