Student Experience

What to Expect

Algonquin College is proud to provide a diverse and dynamic student experience. Check out the highlights below to get a sense of what to expect as a student in the Financial Services program.

Success Stories & Testimonials

Tasha Corneau“I owe my new career at TD Waterhouse to the Financial Services Graduate Certificate program at Algonquin College. This program is taught by faculty with current industry experience who genuinely care about your success and will provide you will exceptional learning opportunities that will set you way ahead of the competition.”
– Tasha Corneau, Graduate

“I chose this program because I wanted to work in the banking sector, this program gave me the exposure, the qualification and the contacts that helped me get where I am right now. I had my work placement at Scotiabank in my 2nd semester through this course. After completing my certifications I applied at Scotiabank for the trainee position and got hired in a month.

Scotiabank is a great place to work and I am glad that “Financial Services” showed me the right direction towards it.

I am now working as a Personal Banking Officer Trainee at Scotiabank. As a trainee I am expected to complete my assigned courses within a time frame and also I work on different case studies under the guidance of my Manager.

This course is the best platform for anyone who wants to work in the financial sector as an employee or an independent advisor. The professors of this course bring in a great level of knowledge and experience for students.”
– Prit Gill, Graduate

“I chose this program because it would afford me the opportunity to enhance my competencies and skills when dealing with external customers and boost my new career in the Financial Services sector. This program would also provide me with a complete set academic training required for entry into the Financial Services sector. Additionally, I would gain first-hand experience in Personal Banking, Investment Banking and Financial Planning. On completion of this condensed 8-month graduate certificate course, I would be certified, qualified and recognized as a leader in the Financial Services industry.

This program is integral for industry readiness. It was designed as a one-stop shop for business professionals in the Financial Service industry. Moving into a career or moving from an entry-level position in financial services, the graduate certificate in financial services program at Algonquin College is the best place to start. It provides a wealth of knowledge and experience and is delivered by well-qualified instructors who are experts in their respective fields. On completion you will be fully equipped with all the skills necessary for entry or advancement into Financial Services. You will be fully certified and would have obtained various licenses required for retail, investment banking, insurance and for a career in Financial Planning.”
– Brian Seaman, Graduate

Work Integrated Learning

Annual Student-led Tax Workshops
Student-led Tax Workshops provide valuable work-integrated learning opportunities for Financial Services students while helping students on campus secure the best possible tax return.

In its inaugural year, the sessions helped 149 students with their 2023 taxes. The workshop helped students file tax returns, resulting in significant savings, including $63,984.00 in HST rebates and $29,025.00 in Climate Action Incentives collectively.

Financial planning
With a focus on practising, collecting, and analyzing client information, and providing financial advice based on that information, students learn how to create and present financial plans.