Financial Services

Pay for financial advisers varies depending on qualifications, experience, the number of clients they have, and the type of work they do. Financial advisers usually earn $80,000 to $130,000 per year. Senior financial advisers can earn $100,000 to $150,000 per year. Financial advisers usually earn a commission on top of their salary. The chances of getting a job as a financial adviser are good due to high demand for their services.

To become a financial adviser, you need to have:

• A New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5), with a strand in one of the following: Investment; Life, Disability, and Health Insurance; General Insurance; Residential Property Lending
• A Financial Advice Provider (FAP) licence or be engaged to operate under a Financial Advice Provider's licence as a financial adviser or a nominated representative.

All financial advisers must be registered on the Financial Service Providers Register.

Source: Careers.govt.nz.

Entry Requirements:

• NCEA Level 2 with a minimum of eight credits in English (four credits each in writing and reading) or able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge or skills.

Applicants 20 years and over who do not meet the academic requirements above must provide evidence of their academic ability to study at a level required to complete the programme successfully. This can be written evidence, an interview, referee checks or a combination of these.

All applicants choosing to enrol in the distance delivery mode must have access to a laptop or desktop computer with camera, reliable broadband internet connection and a data plan able to support online learning.

This programme is made up of four courses:

Financial Services Legislation and Regulations - 20 credits

Financial Advice and Economic Environment - 15 credits

Investment Solutions Theory - 15 credits

Investment Solutions Portfolio - 15 credits

This qualification may lead onto higher level qualifications in financial services.

Weekly workshops and discussion forums.

A space is provided on campus where all students can complete their self-managed learning.

All learning resources are located on an online learning platform called Moodle.

We have free Wi-Fi on campus and Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Teams for school and home use.

You will be able to ask your lecturers any questions about your assessments and learning.

We also have a dedicated Student Services Team who can help you with any academic or personal issues you face during your time with us.

Will this qualification be recognised in the education sector where I will work?

Yes, this qualification is NZQA-approved and recognised by New Zealand employers.

What is the application process?

You can find an easy step-by-step guide to applying and enrolling in a programme by clicking here.

What if I miss some classes?

You will have access to all the learning material on our learning management system, Moodle; however, every learning session is essential to your learning, and attendance is very important.

Will I be able to manage my time?

We acknowledge there may be times when it becomes difficult to juggle your priorities. If you face any struggles, our supportive lecturers and Student Services Team are here to help you.

Do I need to have any computer skills?

Yes, you will need basic computer skills and a laptop to be successful in the programme. 

Where can I work after graduating?

You can work in specialist roles in the retail and services areas of the financial services industry.

Is there cultural support for me?

Yes, we have activities and cultural events to celebrate the many diverse ethnicities at our campuses.