Investments, lending, and retail banking operations are all covered in depth in banking courses. Professional certifications are available for banking and mortgage professionals who want to break into the industry, learn a new skill, or refresh their credentials. There are classes that deal specifically with commercial investments and lending, in addition to banking courses that deal with consumer products.
The majority of banking courses are continuing education credits earned after completing a four-year college program. These courses can be used to supplement a generalist business administration degree, or they can be taken as electives at some colleges. At some point during their degree program, finance and accounting majors will be exposed to banking courses and subject matter.
One of the most common types of banking courses is investments. Students can learn about retirement planning, portfolio diversification, and investment strategies by studying how to advise customers. Those interested in becoming certified financial planners can enroll in courses that will help them meet the licensing requirements for selling and recommending investment securities. Commercial investment courses teach professionals how to manage assets and large capital investments for small and large businesses.
Financial advisers who work for large investment firms may assist in the administration of stock option award plans or the management of retirement plans for major corporations’ employees. Students who take banking courses that focus on commercial investments gain the knowledge and skills they need to manage these types of savings plans. Some of the more risky investment strategies, such as hedging, may also be taught to students.
A different type of banking course focuses on mortgages. The mortgage lending and underwriting process is taught to future and current banking professionals. These courses cover the national laws that govern the approval process and the steps that must be taken. The majority of future mortgage underwriters and originators must meet local licensing requirements, which these classes assist them in meeting.
The operations side of retail banking is usually covered in retail banking courses. Professionals can learn how to manage retail banking locations, develop strong customer service and selling skills, deal with deposits, and ensure the safety of their employees. Students can learn about the different products available at retail banking locations. Vehicle and personal loans, deposit accounts, credit cards, individual retirement plans, and insurance are just a few of the products available.
Up and coming trends, particularly in mobile and online banking, may be discussed in retail operations classes. Employees must continue to be educated on what can be offered to customers as technology becomes more integrated into a retail bank’s service and delivery. Employees must also understand how the technology works in order to accurately respond to customer questions and concerns.