After more than a decade helping others achieve financial stability, Damara Parra realized it was time to invest in her own professional growth. Enrolling in an online master’s program prepared her to take that next step.

Iowa State University’s family financial planning specialization of the online family and consumer sciences master’s program was designed for working professionals like Damara. It’s 30-credit format makes it possible to earn an advanced degree while balancing career and personal commitments. For Parra, it was exactly the opportunity she was seeking.

“It gave me the confidence to pursue the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, which is a big step toward expanding my work beyond financial counseling,” said Parra. “The master’s program at Iowa State University caught my eye because it is CFP Board-registered, flexible for someone like me who works full-time, and it has an excellent reputation.”

Undergraduate Financial Counseling and Planning

Damara’s path led her to the online master’s program in Family Financial Planning. At Iowa State, we also offer an undergraduate program in Financial Counseling and Planning. This degree is the only program at Iowa State that meets the specific criteria for people who wish to obtain their CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) certification. 

The Financial Counseling and Planning program is also an AFCPE® Registered Education Program which offers students the opportunity to earn their Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) certification that enhances their degree and marks the highest standard of excellence in the field of financial counseling and education.

Why is something financial-related in the College of Health and Human Sciences?

Great question! Helping people navigate the complexities of financial decision making often comes with a with a psychological component.

Through both the undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Health and Human Sciences, not only do you learn the in-depth financial knowledge you need to help your future clients – you also learn about human behavior and motivation across the lifespan.

If you’re thinking about a career in financial planning, explore our programs and start an in-demand, meaningful career helping people achieve financial success.