Best CFA Courses/Programs

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is one of the most prestigious credentials in the investment and finance industry. Awarded by the CFA Institute, it signifies a high level of expertise and ethical grounding in finance, investment management, and financial analysis. For individuals aspiring to pursue a career in investment management, pursuing a degree program aligned with CFA standards is a significant advantage. Many business schools around the world have recognized this and offer specialized courses or programs designed to align with the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK), providing students with the foundation necessary to succeed in CFA exams. Here are some of the best business schools that offer programs aligned with CFA standards:

Schulich School of Business (Canada)

The Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto is consistently ranked among the top business schools globally. Known for its innovative approach to business education, Schulich has earned recognition as a CFA Program Partner. This partnership is a significant endorsement, reflecting the depth and rigor of the school’s finance programs, which are closely aligned with the CFA Institute's standards.

Schulich offers a 12-month full-time Master of Finance (MFin) program, which is designed to provide exceptional breadth and depth of financial knowledge. The program emphasizes practical, real-world application of financial principles, and it is estimated that it covers approximately 90% of the knowledge required for CFA exam preparation. This integration of CFA material into the curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared for the CFA exams, whether they are pursuing the credential immediately upon graduation or in the future.

Schulich's finance programs are designed with a global perspective, preparing students to work in diverse financial markets worldwide. The school’s location in Toronto, a major financial hub, also provides ample opportunities for students to network with industry leaders, gain real-world exposure, and potentially secure employment in top financial firms. Additionally, Schulich’s reputation in Canada and internationally adds significant value to the CFA credential, making graduates well-positioned for competitive roles in investment management, financial analysis, and other related fields.

The University of Iowa (Henry B. Tippie College of Business) (USA)

The Henry B. Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa is another prestigious institution that has earned CFA Program Partner status. Since 2009, Tippie’s Finance Career Academy has worked closely with the CFA Institute to provide students with a curriculum that aligns with the CFA Program’s Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK). The school’s MBA programs, especially in finance, have been designed to help students prepare for the CFA exams while also developing the skills necessary to excel in the finance industry.

Tippie’s finance programs are rigorous and cover more than 70% of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in financial analysis, ethics, investment management, and corporate finance. The inclusion of CFA-related content in the coursework ensures that students are equipped with the essential knowledge to succeed on all three levels of the CFA exams.

The University of Iowa offers a collaborative learning environment, with close connections to the finance industry, particularly through its Finance Career Academy. This program provides students with access to mentorship opportunities, career services, and internships, making it easier for graduates to transition into professional roles. The combination of a strong academic foundation in finance and the practical, industry-oriented focus of the Tippie College of Business makes it an excellent choice for students pursuing the CFA designation.

Howard University School of Business (USA)

Howard University, located in Washington, D.C., has earned the distinction of being a CFA Program Partner for both its undergraduate BA in Business Administration and its Master of Finance programs. These programs cover at least 70% of the CFA Program’s Candidate Body of Knowledge, making them an ideal path for students interested in obtaining the CFA designation. Howard’s commitment to ethical and professional standards is another key aspect of its CFA alignment, which emphasizes the importance of integrity in the financial industry.

The Howard University School of Business has been accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) since 1976, a mark of excellence that ensures the programs meet high standards of quality and rigor. The CFA Program Partner status further strengthens Howard’s reputation, providing students with a competitive advantage as they enter the finance profession. Students graduating from Howard University with a background aligned with the CFA program are well-prepared for careers in investment management, financial analysis, and corporate finance.

Howard University also benefits from its strong location in Washington, D.C., which provides students with access to numerous networking and professional development opportunities in the U.S. financial sector. Graduates of Howard’s finance programs are well-positioned to work in prominent financial institutions and government agencies, as well as in non-profit and international organizations.

Cass Business School, City University, London (UK)

Cass Business School, part of City University in London, is another globally recognized business school that has earned CFA Program Partner status. Cass’s finance programs are closely aligned with the CFA Institute’s standards, making it a top choice for students pursuing the CFA designation. The school offers five MSc programs that have received the CFA Institute’s approval: MSc in Finance, MSc in Banking and International Finance, MSc in Accounting and International Finance, MSc in Investment Management, and MSc in Finance and Investment (part-time).

These MSc programs provide a rigorous education in finance, with content that covers a substantial portion of the CFA Program’s Candidate Body of Knowledge. By offering programs that are directly relevant to the CFA exams, Cass ensures that students are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the finance industry and to pass the CFA exams. The MSc in Investment Management, in particular, is specifically tailored to students seeking a career in investment management, making it an excellent choice for those aiming for the CFA charter.

Cass Business School’s location in London, one of the world’s leading financial centers, provides students with access to numerous career opportunities and industry connections. The school’s strong links to the financial services industry ensure that students gain valuable practical experience, either through internships or networking events, that will be beneficial as they pursue the CFA designation and launch their careers in finance.

Why Choose a CFA-aligned Program?

For students pursuing a career in investment management or financial analysis, enrolling in a CFA-aligned program offers numerous benefits. First and foremost, these programs are designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the key principles that underpin the CFA exams, ensuring that they are well-prepared for each level of the CFA exam. This is particularly valuable for students who plan to sit for the CFA exams shortly after graduation, as the curriculum covers a significant portion of the required material.

Moreover, CFA-aligned programs often emphasize ethical standards, professional conduct, and real-world applications, which are essential components of the CFA credential. By incorporating these elements into the curriculum, these schools ensure that their graduates are not only knowledgeable in finance but also capable of applying that knowledge in a professional context with integrity.

Additionally, many CFA-aligned programs offer excellent networking opportunities, often through industry connections, internships, and career services. This is particularly beneficial for students looking to enter highly competitive fields such as investment banking, asset management, and corporate finance. The CFA designation is widely recognized in the finance industry, and having a degree from a CFA Program Partner institution provides students with a competitive edge in the job market.

Conclusion

The CFA designation is a globally recognized standard of excellence in the finance industry, and earning it can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. For students looking to pursue the CFA credential, enrolling in a business school with a CFA Program Partner designation is a smart choice. Schools like the Schulich School of Business, the University of Iowa, Howard University, and Cass Business School offer programs that are rigorously aligned with the CFA curriculum, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to succeed in the CFA exams and in the finance profession. By pursuing a CFA-aligned program, students are positioning themselves for long-term success in the competitive world of finance.