Scottsdale Community College (SCC) is excited to announce the launch of two new Financial Services programs, designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the financial sector. Formerly known as the Securities Industries Essentials (SIE) programs, these renamed and enhanced awards aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of financial services and the fundamental principles required for success in this thriving industry.
The Financial Services certificate of completion is a 16-credit offering that adds a variety of business classes to help students with little-to-no work experience and/or higher education. The Financial Services: Prelicensure is a 4-credit micro certification and is best for students that already have significant real-world experience and/or a degree (whether it’s business-related or not).
The Valley of the Sun has become a regional hub for financial services. As Arizona's economy continues to experience significant growth and attract industries to the Valley, the need for a talent-ready pipeline becomes more evident. Financial services include a variety of businesses that provide management of money from traditional banks or credit unions to insurance, wealth management, stock brokerage, or investment companies, etc. These occupations can offer stability, competitive starting pay, and abundant opportunities for advancement, making it a sought-after field for aspiring professionals.
Anyone wishing to pursue a career as a stockbroker, financial adviser, client relationship associate or related positions needs to pass the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA®) Securities Industry Essentials (SIE®) certification exam, a nationally recognized verification of one’s knowledge of fundamental industry concepts. Students in the Financial Services programs learn about investments and prepare to take and pass the FINRA SIE Exam. Requiring that students pass the certification exam gives them the foundation to earn additional industry credentials that will lead to increased earning potential.
According to Burning Glass International, the financial services sector is expected to grow 22% in the next 10 years. There were almost 2,300 positions available and posted in the state between 2019 and 2020. Roles range from relationship specialist, financial services professional, account representative (non-IT), personal banker, sales agent, and more. The average salary of someone working as a financial services salesperson (entry level) is $61,000 annually, according to O*net.
SCC’s partnerships with prominent industry players including Charles Schwab, Bank of America/Merrill Wealth Management, CIM Group, Nationwide, Northern Trust, Vanguard, and Wells Fargo further enhance the program's effectiveness. These industry leaders recognize the value of a talent pipeline that prepares candidates for the specific skills and demands of the financial services industry. With the Financial Services programs, students gain a competitive edge, enabling them to swiftly enter the job market and secure rewarding positions.
"The Financial Services programs at SCC are game-changers in preparing individuals for successful careers in the financial sector," says Sue Sandblom, SCC Business Faculty and Chair. "By offering a solid foundation of skills, these programs open endless possibilities for professional growth and advancement. Our industry partners participate in classroom discussions and help with job placement"
Learn more about the Financial Services: Prelicensure micro certificate program.
Learn more about the Financial Services certificate of completion program.