Accredited Financial Counselor Program
What is an Accredited Financial Counselor
An Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC) helps clients reduce debt, manage finances, and build assets, often working for government, private, or non-profit organizations. To become a financial counselor, individuals typically need a 4-year bachelor’s degree and certification is required. The University of Utah’s Family and Consumer Studies department offers AFCPE®-approved coursework, preparing students for the AFC® certification exam at a discounted rate. Completing the Financial Counseling Track equips students with the knowledge to assist clients in achieving financial stability and empowers them to make sound financial decisions for themselves.
Required Financial Counseling Courses Core (9 credits)
- FCS 3420 Housing Policy and Issues
- FCS 3500 Financial Skills for Life
- FCS 3520 Financial Counseling
Elective Choose One (3 Credits)
- FCS 3510 Tax Preparation and Community Involvement
- FCS 5510 Building Family Wealth
- FCS 5530 Income Tax Planning for Families
- FCS 5540 Protecting Family Wealth: Insurance and Estate Planning
A minimum of 12 credit hours is required to satisfy this requirement. Students must pass with a "C" or better.
Career Opportunities and Outlook
An Accredited Financial Counselor educates clients on basic financial principles to help them overcome debt and build assets. This enables clients to create a solid financial foundation in which to achieve lifelong successful financial outcomes.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts fair growth in the job market and an a median annual income of $53,440 as of May 2023.