COURSE OVERVIEW:
Financial Planning and Management is the study of the principles, analytical tools, and strategic techniques used to guide organizations toward achieving their long-term objectives. It focuses on how businesses allocate resources, manage risk, evaluate performance, and make informed decisions in dynamic and uncertain environments. Effective financial planning enables organizations to align operational activities with strategic goals while maintaining financial stability and sustainability.
This course is designed for individuals seeking specialist knowledge and practical financial planning skills within an organizational context. Students will be exposed to various methods by which a business entity can attain its strategic goals and objectives through sound financial planning and management practices. Emphasis is placed on developing a working financial vocabulary, strengthening analytical capabilities, and applying financial information effectively within an organization.
The method for accomplishing this includes the analysis of financial data, evaluation of business plans, application of planning tools and techniques, and engagement with case studies and individual assignments. Students will explore both rational and non-rational decision-making approaches, examine risk and uncertainty, and develop strategic recommendations based on quantitative and qualitative analysis. Oral and written communication skills will also be strengthened through structured reporting and presentation exercises.
Among the topics included in this course are: principles of financial planning and management, strategic business planning, financial analysis and performance evaluation, risk assessment and scenario planning, decision-making frameworks, evaluation and implementation of business plans, hard and soft system factors affecting business success, and ethical considerations in financial management.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Upon completion of this course learners will be able to:
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Demonstrate knowledge of key financial planning terminology, classifications, and trends relevant to business operations.
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Critically evaluate the role, potential, and contribution of business planning within organizations.
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Apply financial planning principles, concepts, tools, and techniques in the development and evaluation of business plans.
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Analyze financial data to support strategic decision-making and organizational performance improvement.
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Compare rational and non-rational decision-making and problem-solving techniques within a business context.
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Identify and critically assess “hard” and “soft” system factors that influence the success or failure of business plans.
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Collect, analyze, and synthesize relevant data to develop strategic recommendations and informed judgments.
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Demonstrate an understanding of board-level decision-making and its financial implications.
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Apply analytical tools for managing risk and uncertainty, including scenario and contingency planning.
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Exhibit a clear understanding of personal values, ethical standards, and professional work practices in financial management.
