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Home > Subjects > DFSE204 Investment Fundamentals
This subject introduces individuals to the fundamentals of investing, including securities, managed investments, and the principles of risk, return, and portfolio construction.
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STUDY MODE
100% online
AQF LEVEL
5
NEXT INTAKE
4 May 2026
SUBJECT DURATION
12 weeks
SUBJECT FEE
$720.00
This subject introduces individuals to the concepts of securities and managed investments as they apply to retail clients.
Individuals will explore the purpose of investing, including the relationship between risk and return, and develop an understanding of portfolio construction principles. The subject examines the characteristics of different investment types, including debt and equity securities, as well as managed investments.
The subject also explores diversification and its role in managing risk, alongside key regulatory obligations, disclosure documentation, and taxation considerations relevant to investment decisions.
Through practical examples and applied learning, individuals will develop the skills to evaluate investment options and understand how portfolio construction supports effective financial outcomes.
This subject meets the specialist knowledge requirements for securities and managed investments under ASIC Regulatory Guide 146.
For more information, please refer to the subject outline.
Diploma of Financial Services >
On successful completion of this subject, individuals should be able to:
There is no prescribed text for this subject.
Individuals are provided with key readings and access to Kaplan’s online databases. Individuals are encouraged to research and read widely on the topic.
Click here for an assessment timetable.
Not applicable
Tier 1 Securities and Managed Investments – General Advice
12 Jan 2026 - 3 Apr 2026
❌ Enrolments now closed
Early access opens N/A
Early access to assessments N/A
Study period commences 12 January 2026
Enrolments close/census 28 January 2026
Study period ends 3 April 2026
Assessment dates See assessment information
9 Mar 2026 - 29 May 2026
Study period commences 9 March 2026
Enrolments close/census 25 March 2026
Study period ends 29 May 2026
4 May 2026 - 24 Jul 2026
✓ Enrolments open now
Study period commences 4 May 2026
Enrolments close/census 20 May 2026
Study period ends 24 July 2026
29 Jun 2026 - 18 Sep 2026
Study period commences 29 June 2026
Enrolments close/census 15 July 2026
Study period ends 18 September 2026
Assessment dates See assessment timetable
24 Aug 2026 - 13 Nov 2026
Study period commences 24 August 2026
Enrolments close/census 9 September 2026
Study period ends 13 November 2026
19 Oct 2026 - 8 Jan 2027
Study period commences 19 October 2026
Enrolments close/census 4 November 2026
Study period ends 8 January 2027
To safeguard against any future price increases, you can lock in the price of your subject enrolment fees for the duration of your qualification. Many eligible students use FEE-HELP, which is a Commonwealth Government loan. This means you do not need to pay to study upfront, helping you to reduce some of your financial burden . Please note that government fees apply for the use of FEE-HELP for higher education diploma subjects. Click here for further information.
When you apply to study with Kaplan Professional, you pay for the subjects you have enrolled in for each study period.
The tuition fee listed below applies to all Diploma of Financial Services subjects:
Note: If this subject is undertaken as a standalone subject, no FEE-HELP is available.
FEE-HELP is available for individuals undertaking this subject as part of a qualification. Click here to find out if you’re eligible.
Further fees may apply. Click here for a full list of fees and allowances.
Other fees
Further fees
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FEE-HELP
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