The Best Place to Do a Certificate Course on Financial Modelling and Valuation: An Expert's Guide

After obtaining a commerce degree, I believed that I had a solid understanding of finance. However, my experience in the workforce quickly revealed the depth of my ignorance, particularly when it came to practical applications. It was then that I decided to enroll in a finance-related short-term course, specifically The Wall Street School's financial modelling and valuation course.

Personal Experience: Learning at The Wall Street School

The Wall Street School's course was precisely what I needed. They started with the basics but quickly moved into more advanced topics. It was a challenging journey, but the trainers made it manageable, ensuring that every learner was engaged. As a result, I feel much more confident in my role today, thanks to what I learned here.

Interactive Learning Experience

Initially, I was nervous about joining an online course in financial modelling and valuation, thinking that I wouldn't get the same experience as offline classes. However, The Wall Street School proved me wrong. The live sessions were highly interactive, and the trainers encouraged us to ask questions. Additionally, all the sessions were recorded, allowing me to revisit any missed parts. This feature made me feel like I was part of a physical classroom, even though I was attending from home. The courses were taught using a practical approach, helping us understand the real-life financial challenges we might face on the job.

Excel and the Power of Dynamic Modeling

Before the course, I had never been a fan of Excel and barely knew how to create a simple formula. In the first class, I felt completely lost, while everyone else seemed to know what they were doing. However, the trainers at The Wall Street School ensured that no one was left behind, making everyone engaged in discussions by asking questions. By the end of the course, I wasn't just confident with Excel, but I was also able to build dynamic financial models. This experience still amazes me because I managed to master Excel in such a short time, and I'm confident that anyone can do the same.

The Best Options for Online Financial Modelling and Valuation Courses

There are several reputable institutions and platforms where you can pursue a certificate course in financial modeling and valuation. Here are some of the best options:

Coursera

Institution: Various universities e.g. Wharton University of Pennsylvania and University of Michigan Courses: Offers a range of courses on financial modeling and valuation often with flexible schedules.

edX

Institution: Various universities e.g. MIT and Columbia University Courses: Provides professional certificate programs in finance that include financial modeling components.

Financial Modeling Institute (FMI)

Certification: Offers a specialized certification in financial modeling that is well-regarded in the industry.

Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)

Programs: Offers a Financial Modeling Valuation Analyst (FMVA) certification which is comprehensive and includes practical projects.

Udemy

Courses: Various courses on financial modeling often taught by industry professionals. Look for highly rated courses.

Khan Academy

Free Resources: Provides free courses and resources on finance and accounting which can be beneficial for foundational knowledge.

Local Universities and Business Schools

Many universities offer continuing education programs in finance that include financial modeling and valuation courses. Check with local institutions for options.

When choosing a course, consider factors such as the course content, duration, cost, and the reputation of the institution. It may also be beneficial to look for reviews or testimonials from previous students to ensure that the course will meet your needs and expectations.