In this article, we’ll explore how applied finance courses can help boost career prospects no matter where you’re at in your professional journey. Kaplan Professional is Australia’s longest-standing provider of postgraduate applied finance qualifications and has over 40 years’ experience (The Securities Institute, FINSIA and Kaplan Professional) in setting the standard for applied finance education in the country. Finance is a highly competitive field that requires you to possess certain skills to achieve success. We pride ourselves in providing high-quality finance education developed in consultation with leaders working within the finance sector to help you excel in your career. Why study applied finance? 1. Enhanced knowledge and skills Expand your skill set and improve your decision-making ability. When completing an applied finance course from Kaplan Professional, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the ever-changing landscapes of finance, like emerging technologies and global economic trends. The Master of Applied Finance has enabled me to deepen my expertise in the technical areas critical to my profession, particularly business valuations, equity markets and M&A. This solid foundation has empowered me to tackle complex technical challenges and consistently deliver exceptional service to our clients. – Matt Darling, Master of Applied Finance Read Matt Darling’s full story here. 2. Practical learning experience Applied finance is the study of financial theories and learning how to use those concepts in real-world situations. The question of education vs. experience is no more; by covering both aspects you have the upper hand when applying for new roles. The knowledge I gained in financial markets, ethics, law and regulations has opened doors to a world of opportunities. – Jarred Lobb, Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance 3. Industry recognition and accreditation Increased recognition can boost career prospects and your credibility within the industry making you competitive within the job market. Our courses are designed and delivered by industry experts and practitioners working within the field. What drew me to Kaplan Professional was the fact that their [applied finance] postgraduate programs are renowned for their focus on applying complex theoretical concepts in today’s modern world. – Rudy Soobaroyen, Master of Applied Finance. 4. Network building Partaking in a course from Kaplan Professional allows you to expand your network and learn from other students’ experiences. You’ll have access to a network of professionals and alumni from all across Australia and around the world. Unlock future career opportunities in finance Completing an applied finance course offers numerous benefits. Our alumni have gone on to become Corporate Finance Principals, Heads of Compliance, Senior Finance Leaders, Finance Managers, CFOs, CEOs, Finance Directors, COOs … just to name a few roles. I feel very confident of my abilities, particularly in academic research, risk management, banking and regulation within the Australian framework. – Rudy Soobaroyen, Master of Applied Finance. Have a career in finance already? Upskill and boost your earning potential If you’re already in finance and wanting to upskill or cross-skill, there are applied finance courses that may be suitable. We offer three applied finance courses: Master of Applied Finance Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance How to get started? 1. Check your eligibility A related degree or relevant work experience is required. 2. Are you eligible for Credit for prior learning?You may be eligible for exemptions if you hold designations such as CFA®, CPA or other credentials. 3. Choose your subjects In the Master of Applied Finance, you need to complete 12 subjects (four (4) core + eight (8) electives), with specialisation options.The Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance involves eight (8) subjects two (2) core + six (6) electives), with specialisation options. 4. Enrol online It’s quick and easy to get started. Our friendly Course Advice team can help you choose your subjects and complete your enrolment. You can book a call using the Calendly link provided. FEE HELP is available, which means eligible students can defer their tuition costs. There are six intakes each year, giving you the flexibility to plan your studies around your schedule. View full details and apply. FAQ’s: What is applied finance? Applied finance focuses on the practical application of financial theory and techniques to real-world financial decision-making. It covers areas such as investment analysis, corporate finance, financial markets, portfolio management, business intelligence and risk management. Studying applied finance helps develop the analytical and strategic skills needed to evaluate financial opportunities, manage risk and drive business performance. Who should take an applied finance course? Applied dinance courses are suited to finance professionals who want to deepen their technical expertise or move into more senior roles. They are also ideal for professionals from other industries seeking to transition into finance, as well as graduates looking to build strong foundations in investment, corporate finance and financial analysis. These courses support career progression across banking, investment management, corporate finance and financial services. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an applied finance course? Entry requirements vary depending on the qualification. For the Master of Applied Finance, applicants typically need a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a related discipline, or a degree in any discipline with relevant work experience. The Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma provide flexible entry pathways and may be suitable for those seeking to build foundational knowledge before progressing to the Master’s level. Specific eligibility requirements are confirmed at the time of application. Find out more here. How long does it typically take to complete an applied finance course? Completion time depends on the qualification and study load. A Graduate Certificate can typically be completed in around six (6) to 12 months. A Graduate Diploma requires additional subjects and may take longer. The Master of Applied Finance can usually be completed in approximately one (1) to two (2) years full time, with part-time options available for those balancing work and study. Will these courses help me prepare for any relevant industry certifications? Yes. Kaplan Professional’s applied finance courses are designed to align with industry expectations and develop the technical competencies valued across financial services. The Master of Applied Finance is aligned with the CFA® Program body of knowledge, supporting students who plan to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. While the courses do not replace professional exams, they provide strong academic preparation for industry certifications and professional advancement. Find out more about the Kaplan Professional CFA pathways here.