Australian universities will assist in the professional development of up-and-coming financial planners, with the development of a new Bachelor degree that combines education with on-the-job experience.

Griffith University’s new Bachelor of Commerce Professional offered in Financial Planning and Accounting was introduced this year in response to industry demand for more qualified professionals and job-ready graduates.

Developed in conjunction with Ernst & Young, the three-year degree offers students one year full-time study followed by a two-year, part-time, paid industry placement, as students continue their studies.

Students will learn to effectively deal with clients, understand the practice, professional attire, networking, time recording, budgeting, file management, personal planning, goal setting and an introduction to industry software.