Financial Psychology Certificate Program | The American College of Financial Services
Source: http://www.theamericancollege.edu/learn/certificate-programs/financial-psychology-certificate
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:16
Financial Psychology Certificate Program | The American College of Financial Services
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program
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Financial Psychology Certificate
Best For
Those seeking to deepen behavioral finance knowledge and planning outcomes.
Timing
< 9 Months
Format
i
The College’s Financial Psychology Certificate is 100% online and combines guided study with live weekly sessions.
100% Online
Tuition
$2,050 per course
Packages starting at $5,535
Apply Now
Request Info
×
Request More Information
Provide us with your information and we will get back to you with additional details.
cb19 icon list
Help Clients With Key Insights
Guide Better Decisions
Discover practical tools for addressing client emotions and biases and for shaping healthy financial behaviors.
Improve Planning Outcomes
70% of financial planning recommendations are not implemented — turn insight into client action.
1
Explain Market Movements
Build insights and skills to effectively explain to clients how they can remain steady through times of uncertainty.
cb12 repeater
Explore the MSFP Program
Strengthen Client Relationships with Behavioral Insights
Take your expertise to the next level as part of the full Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) degree program. Get an in-depth look at the MSFP’s tracks, modular certificates, and student experience now.
Learn More
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Program Overview
Apply Now
Admissions Requirements
There are no prerequisites for the Financial Psychology certificate program if taken independently. However, if taken as part of the MSFP Program, a bachelor’s degree is required; additionally, three or more years of experience in financial services is preferred, but not required.
To earn the Financial Psychology Certificate, you must:
Successfully complete three courses and achieve a final score of 80%
Agree to comply with
The American College Code of Ethics and Procedures
What You'll Learn
As client needs grow more complex, strong relationships are critical to successful financial planning. This certificate equips you with the psychological tools and communication skills needed to strengthen client trust, navigate emotional financial decisions, and deliver more effective planning outcomes.
Your learning outcomes include the following:
Understand how biases, heuristics, and emotions shape financial behaviors and decision-making
Apply behavioral finance theories to real-world planning scenarios and client conversations
Use financial counseling and therapy techniques to support positive client behavior change
Explore cultural, relational, and ethical considerations in financial psychology
Navigate financial trauma and conflict to support clients in moments of stress and transition
Course Delivery
The learning format for graduate certificate programs like the Financial Psychology Certificate is 100% online, with guided study and synchronous components including live weekly classes and weekly homework required. Learners must complete all three courses within the program to earn the certificate. Each class is eight weeks long, with the ability for students to complete the certificate program in under six months.
Expert Instruction:
Learn from nationally-recognized academics, researchers, and practitioners
All-Online Resources:
All-virtual lessons organized in sequential units and supported by short videos, knowledge checks, quizzes, and case studies.
Grading:
Earn a final course grade of 80% or higher to pass, and quizzes count toward your final grades.
Stackable Learning:
Earn your standalone certificate or use it as part of your journey toward your MSFP degree!
Apply Now
cb31 stats
Clients Need Behavioral Support
Apply Now
20%
Fewer comprehensive financial advisors field requests for portfolio changes compared to those who only manage investments.
2
75%
Of investors fixate on their initial purchase price, affecting their willingness to sell or adjust positions.
3
60%
Of investors hesitate to take risks due to fear of making a poor decision.
3
Apply Now
cb13 3 column content
Why Enroll With Us?
You Want to Strengthen Client Relationships
Gain Insight Into What Drives Financial Decisions
Develop a deeper understanding of client behavior, emotion, and motivation to deliver more effective, personalized advice.
Learn at Your Pace, On Your Terms
You’re Looking for a Practical, Flexible Learning Experience
Access a powerful online program designed for working professionals, featuring expert faculty and self-paced courses you can complete from anywhere.
Improve Outcomes for Yourself and Your Clients
You Want to Build Your Resume
Take steps toward completing the MSFP Program and earn graduate-level professional certificates at the same time.
cb30 tab content
Tuition Overview
Single Courses
$2,050
Complete Program
Starting at $5,227.50
Single Courses
$2,050 per course
Individual courses can be purchased for $2,050 each. To complete the full program, students must complete three courses:
MSFP 536 Behavioral Finance
— Provides an overview of behavioral finance research and theory and how those apply to client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 591 Financial Psychology
— Explores the impact of psychological factors on financial decision-making and how to work with and through those factors for improved client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 592 Financial Therapy and Counseling
— Introduces various therapeutic and counseling techniques that can be employed to support clients in making positive changes.
Full Program
$5,227.50
Students may purchase the Financial Psychology Certificate courses in a three-course package, securing savings under several conditions:
College designation holders
: $5,227.50 (save $922.50 off individual purchase of three courses!)
New students
: $5,535 (save $615!)
The full program includes the following three courses:
MSFP 536 Behavioral Finance
— Provides an overview of behavioral finance research and theory and how those apply to client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 591 Financial Psychology
— Explores the impact of psychological factors on financial decision-making and how to work with and through those factors for improved client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 592 Financial Therapy and Counseling
— Introduces various therapeutic and counseling techniques that can be employed to support clients in making positive changes.
cb33 testimonial slider - V1 & V2
We educate our clients to make informed decisions for their financial futures; therefore, we have to be educated ourselves. Enrollment in The College is one of your wisest decisions to grow your knowledge and your practice.
Sherrilee Buller
CLU®
My time at The American College of Financial Services has been amazing. The professors are experts and really make complex topics easy to understand. The flexibility of the programs allowed me to balance my studies with my career, and I’ve gained practical skills that I use every day.
Derek Schletzer
ChSNC®
As an adult student, making a career change or furthering your career knowledge can be challenging. The College’s instructors are very knowledgeable and supportive in grasping concepts, and the advising team is invaluable in navigating the learning journey.
Rona Drummer
ChFC®
01
/
00
cb24 form
Have Questions? We Can Help!
Provide us with a few details, including your question or comment, and an Admissions Advisor will respond to you as soon as possible.
Thank You
The form was submitted successfully. We will be sure to reach out with answers and information.
cb26 cta grid - v2
There’s Even More to Explore
Take Your Next Step
View all our certificate programs
See a flyer on the Financial Psychology Certificate
View the Program Flyer
Expand Your Opportunities
Browse our designation and certification programs
cb20 footer cta
Take the Next Step and Apply
With the Financial Psychology Certificate, you’ll stand out by combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of the emotional and behavioral factors that drive client decisions.
Apply Now
Read Practice Management Thought Leadership
cb4 related resources - V1
Financial Planning Knowledge Curated for You
April 16, 2026
What to Expect From AI in the Future
Michael Finke, PhD, CFP®, and David Blanchett, PhD, MSFS, CFA, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®, talk about AI and…
View Details
April 15, 2026
Guiding Clients Through Longevity Risk
Longevity risk can derail retirement, but planning ahead ensures clients enjoy a secure, lasting…
View Details
April 15, 2026
Five Questions With Philip Wu
As an advisor, earning trust is about more than technical skill; it’s about expertise, approach,…
View Details
See All
footnotes
1
Forbes. Why Most Financial Plans Fail. 2021.
2
TheAmerican College of Financial Services. Advising Through Uncertainty Study. 2025.
3
International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews. Behavioral Finance: How Investor Psychology Affects Stock Market Trends. 2025.
Skip to main content
program
cb27 program banner
Financial Psychology Certificate
Best For
Those seeking to deepen behavioral finance knowledge and planning outcomes.
Timing
< 9 Months
Format
i
The College’s Financial Psychology Certificate is 100% online and combines guided study with live weekly sessions.
100% Online
Tuition
$2,050 per course
Packages starting at $5,535
Apply Now
Request Info
×
Request More Information
Provide us with your information and we will get back to you with additional details.
cb19 icon list
Help Clients With Key Insights
Guide Better Decisions
Discover practical tools for addressing client emotions and biases and for shaping healthy financial behaviors.
Improve Planning Outcomes
70% of financial planning recommendations are not implemented — turn insight into client action.
1
Explain Market Movements
Build insights and skills to effectively explain to clients how they can remain steady through times of uncertainty.
cb12 repeater
Explore the MSFP Program
Strengthen Client Relationships with Behavioral Insights
Take your expertise to the next level as part of the full Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) degree program. Get an in-depth look at the MSFP’s tracks, modular certificates, and student experience now.
Learn More
cb28 program tabs
Program Overview
Apply Now
Admissions Requirements
There are no prerequisites for the Financial Psychology certificate program if taken independently. However, if taken as part of the MSFP Program, a bachelor’s degree is required; additionally, three or more years of experience in financial services is preferred, but not required.
To earn the Financial Psychology Certificate, you must:
Successfully complete three courses and achieve a final score of 80%
Agree to comply with
The American College Code of Ethics and Procedures
What You'll Learn
As client needs grow more complex, strong relationships are critical to successful financial planning. This certificate equips you with the psychological tools and communication skills needed to strengthen client trust, navigate emotional financial decisions, and deliver more effective planning outcomes.
Your learning outcomes include the following:
Understand how biases, heuristics, and emotions shape financial behaviors and decision-making
Apply behavioral finance theories to real-world planning scenarios and client conversations
Use financial counseling and therapy techniques to support positive client behavior change
Explore cultural, relational, and ethical considerations in financial psychology
Navigate financial trauma and conflict to support clients in moments of stress and transition
Course Delivery
The learning format for graduate certificate programs like the Financial Psychology Certificate is 100% online, with guided study and synchronous components including live weekly classes and weekly homework required. Learners must complete all three courses within the program to earn the certificate. Each class is eight weeks long, with the ability for students to complete the certificate program in under six months.
Expert Instruction:
Learn from nationally-recognized academics, researchers, and practitioners
All-Online Resources:
All-virtual lessons organized in sequential units and supported by short videos, knowledge checks, quizzes, and case studies.
Grading:
Earn a final course grade of 80% or higher to pass, and quizzes count toward your final grades.
Stackable Learning:
Earn your standalone certificate or use it as part of your journey toward your MSFP degree!
Apply Now
cb31 stats
Clients Need Behavioral Support
Apply Now
20%
Fewer comprehensive financial advisors field requests for portfolio changes compared to those who only manage investments.
2
75%
Of investors fixate on their initial purchase price, affecting their willingness to sell or adjust positions.
3
60%
Of investors hesitate to take risks due to fear of making a poor decision.
3
Apply Now
cb13 3 column content
Why Enroll With Us?
You Want to Strengthen Client Relationships
Gain Insight Into What Drives Financial Decisions
Develop a deeper understanding of client behavior, emotion, and motivation to deliver more effective, personalized advice.
Learn at Your Pace, On Your Terms
You’re Looking for a Practical, Flexible Learning Experience
Access a powerful online program designed for working professionals, featuring expert faculty and self-paced courses you can complete from anywhere.
Improve Outcomes for Yourself and Your Clients
You Want to Build Your Resume
Take steps toward completing the MSFP Program and earn graduate-level professional certificates at the same time.
cb30 tab content
Tuition Overview
Single Courses
$2,050
Complete Program
Starting at $5,227.50
Single Courses
$2,050 per course
Individual courses can be purchased for $2,050 each. To complete the full program, students must complete three courses:
MSFP 536 Behavioral Finance
— Provides an overview of behavioral finance research and theory and how those apply to client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 591 Financial Psychology
— Explores the impact of psychological factors on financial decision-making and how to work with and through those factors for improved client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 592 Financial Therapy and Counseling
— Introduces various therapeutic and counseling techniques that can be employed to support clients in making positive changes.
Full Program
$5,227.50
Students may purchase the Financial Psychology Certificate courses in a three-course package, securing savings under several conditions:
College designation holders
: $5,227.50 (save $922.50 off individual purchase of three courses!)
New students
: $5,535 (save $615!)
The full program includes the following three courses:
MSFP 536 Behavioral Finance
— Provides an overview of behavioral finance research and theory and how those apply to client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 591 Financial Psychology
— Explores the impact of psychological factors on financial decision-making and how to work with and through those factors for improved client-advisor relationships.
MSFP 592 Financial Therapy and Counseling
— Introduces various therapeutic and counseling techniques that can be employed to support clients in making positive changes.
cb33 testimonial slider - V1 & V2
We educate our clients to make informed decisions for their financial futures; therefore, we have to be educated ourselves. Enrollment in The College is one of your wisest decisions to grow your knowledge and your practice.
Sherrilee Buller
CLU®
My time at The American College of Financial Services has been amazing. The professors are experts and really make complex topics easy to understand. The flexibility of the programs allowed me to balance my studies with my career, and I’ve gained practical skills that I use every day.
Derek Schletzer
ChSNC®
As an adult student, making a career change or furthering your career knowledge can be challenging. The College’s instructors are very knowledgeable and supportive in grasping concepts, and the advising team is invaluable in navigating the learning journey.
Rona Drummer
ChFC®
01
/
00
cb24 form
Have Questions? We Can Help!
Provide us with a few details, including your question or comment, and an Admissions Advisor will respond to you as soon as possible.
Thank You
The form was submitted successfully. We will be sure to reach out with answers and information.
cb26 cta grid - v2
There’s Even More to Explore
Take Your Next Step
View all our certificate programs
See a flyer on the Financial Psychology Certificate
View the Program Flyer
Expand Your Opportunities
Browse our designation and certification programs
cb20 footer cta
Take the Next Step and Apply
With the Financial Psychology Certificate, you’ll stand out by combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of the emotional and behavioral factors that drive client decisions.
Apply Now
Read Practice Management Thought Leadership
cb4 related resources - V1
Financial Planning Knowledge Curated for You
April 16, 2026
What to Expect From AI in the Future
Michael Finke, PhD, CFP®, and David Blanchett, PhD, MSFS, CFA, CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®, talk about AI and…
View Details
April 15, 2026
Guiding Clients Through Longevity Risk
Longevity risk can derail retirement, but planning ahead ensures clients enjoy a secure, lasting…
View Details
April 15, 2026
Five Questions With Philip Wu
As an advisor, earning trust is about more than technical skill; it’s about expertise, approach,…
View Details
See All
footnotes
1
Forbes. Why Most Financial Plans Fail. 2021.
2
TheAmerican College of Financial Services. Advising Through Uncertainty Study. 2025.
3
International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews. Behavioral Finance: How Investor Psychology Affects Stock Market Trends. 2025.