Distance Learning Business & Finance Programs

The Institute of Business & Finance:
Based in La Jolla CA, The Institute of Business & Finance (IBF) provides online education in five world-renowned financial Designation Programs, including Certified Fund Specialist (CFS), Certified Annuity Specialist (CAS), and more. In addition to our distance learning designation programs, we also offer Certificate programs designed for financial advisors, and a Masters Degree in Financial Services.

- You can study for designations at home or work; no need to rearrange your busy schedule. You decide when you are ready. Our expert faculty and friendly support staff are dedicated to helping you successfully complete your program and earn your designation.

- Utilizing IBF Benefits  is a great way to stand out from the competition, while, at the same time, receiving significant discounts on many valuable products and services.

- Today, more than 13,000 members of the financial services industry, including several dozen Fortune 500 companies, have taken one or more IBF distance learning programs.

 - Continually Improving Programs
Today, IBF personnel are dedicated to continually making the content of our mutual fund training better, serving the needs of several thousand students and graduates, as well as increasing the awareness of IBF designations to brokers, insurance agents, accountants, financial planners, investment advisors, bankers and the general public.

- Become a Financial Services Professional
When you earn one or more IBF designations, you will gain both theoretical and practical knowledge that can be conveyed to your clients, boosting your credibility and professionalism. The expert faculty and staff at IBF are ready to help you earn your certification today.

- Individual Attention
You will be assigned a Student Services representative as soon as you enroll in our program. He/she will provide tips and tools for good study habits as a guideline to successfully get you through your designation in a timely manner.

Distance Learning Financial Designation Programs:
- Certified Fund Specialist (CFS)
- Certified Tax Specialist (CTS) 
- Retirement Income Specialist (RIS)
- Certified Annuity Specialist (CAS) 
- Board Certified in Estate Planning (BCE) 

Online Certificate Programs:
- Divorce Certificate
- Certificate in Alternative Investments

Online Masters Degree Program:
- Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS) Degree

Student Testimonials:
"Having the CES designation sets me apart from other advisors and differentiates me from being "just another financial sales guy." People see me as an estate planner in addition to being a financial advisor, and that has helped us get in front of more people than we had in the past."
- Randy

"The Certified Annuity Specialist course material is excellent. It gives me the foundation to really separate myself from the other advisors "selling" annuities. The knowledge gained and the resources made available from this course are an eye-opener to the many ways annuities can be used to help my clients meet their goals with this unique and flexible tool."
- Lynn