What is a CPE Course?

Benefits, advantages, and how to choose the best options

Written by CFI Team

Reviewed by Kelly Bailey

Read Time 5 minutes

What is a CPE Course?

If you’re asking, “What is a CPE course, and how does it support your finance career?”, you’re in the right place. A CPE course, or Continuing Professional Education course, is a structured learning experience designed to help finance professionals like you maintain certifications, such as a CPA, CFP, or FRM, and grow in your career.

Now that you understand what a CPE course is and its purpose, let’s dive into specific benefits that CPE courses can bring to your professional journey.

Key Benefits of a CPE Course

When considering what a CPE course offers, the benefits go beyond just meeting licensing requirements.

Here are some of the career-building advantages you’ll gain:

Skill Development: CPE courses allow you to stay updated on the latest trends and skills in the finance field. This ongoing learning helps you remain effective and adaptable, especially in a rapidly evolving professional environment.
Professional Credibility: Completing CPE courses shows a commitment to your profession and helps you stand out as a knowledgeable and skilled expert. Maintaining your CPE credits also signals that you’re actively engaged in your career and dedicated to meeting industry standards.
Networking and Career Growth: Many CPE courses offer networking opportunities where you can connect with other professionals. These connections can lead to new career opportunities or insights that further your professional development.
Enhanced Job Performance: CPE courses not only expand your knowledge but also improve your problem-solving and decision-making skills. With ongoing education, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges you face in your current role.

With these benefits in mind, explore why online CPE courses offer even greater flexibility and convenience for finance professionals.

What is a CPE Course Online? Advantages of Virtual Learning Options

Today, online CPE courses are more accessible and flexible than ever, offering a range of unique advantages over traditional in-person training:

Flexibility and Convenience: With online CPE courses, you can complete lessons on your schedule, wherever you are. This flexibility makes it easier to balance your professional and personal responsibilities without sacrificing career growth.
Wide Range of Topics: Online platforms offer an extensive selection of courses, covering both core topics and niche areas. Whether you want to learn about data analytics, financial modeling, or leadership, you’ll find courses tailored to your interests and career goals.
Cost-Effectiveness: Online CPE courses tend to be more affordable than in-person classes, often eliminating the need for travel and accommodation expenses. Many providers offer memberships that give you access to a variety of courses at a single price.
High-Quality Instruction: Many online CPE courses are taught by industry experts and include practical, real-world insights. This quality of instruction ensures that you’re learning from knowledgeable professionals who understand the nuances of the finance field.

With so many online options available, how do you know which CPE course is right for your career?

How to Choose the Best CPE Courses for Your Finance Career

No matter your certification or career stage, selecting the right CPE course ensures you’re gaining the most from your CPE learning experience.

Here’s how to choose the best courses for you:

Align with Professional Goals

Look for CPE courses that align with your specific career goals and areas of focus. For instance, if your role centers on financial analysis, consider courses in financial modeling and valuation. If you’re in corporate FP&A, you might prioritize courses in budgeting and forecasting, or advanced Excel techniques.

Look for Accreditation and Quality Standards

Any CPE course you take should meet the standards of your certification or licensing body. Make sure to choose CPE courses from NASBA-accredited providers like CFI. Ensure that your CPE course credits meet these standards to receive credit for your efforts while fulfilling your professional requirements.

Instructor Expertise and Course Reviews

Research the instructors’ credentials and backgrounds. Industry-recognized professionals bring invaluable insights and real-world experience, which can enhance your learning. Reviewing course feedback from other learners can also help you gauge the course’s practical value and relevance.

Learning Format

Consider your preferred learning style when selecting courses. Some people benefit from the flexibility of self-paced online modules, while others prefer live sessions or interactive workshops. Choosing a format that best supports your learning preferences will help you stay engaged and make the most of each course.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to select high-quality CPE courses that not only meet certification requirements but also align with your career aspirations.

Get the Most Out of Your CPE Budget

CPE courses are an investment, so it’s wise to make the most of your budget. Here are some tips to stretch your resources:

Plan in Advance: Create a CPE roadmap for the year to allocate your budget effectively and avoid last-minute expenses. Knowing which courses you want to take helps you prioritize and manage your time and finances.
Look for Membership Options: Some providers, like CFI, offer memberships that give you unlimited access to a variety of CPE-approved courses for a single price. This can be a cost-effective way to gain comprehensive knowledge while fulfilling CPE requirements.
Employer-Sponsored Programs: Many companies cover part or all of your CPE costs, so check with your employer about available sponsorships or reimbursements. This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Let’s take a look at how CFI’s CPE courses provide maximum value for your continuing education needs.

How CFI Enhances the Impact of Your CPE Courses

CFI offers a range of CPE courses designed to meet the evolving needs of finance professionals. Here’s how CFI can help you get the most from your CPE experience:

Comprehensive Content: With over 400 CPE credits available, CFI’s accredited CPE courses cover a vast array of topics to help you meet certification requirements and stay ahead of industry trends. Topics include:

1. Financial modeling, valuation, and analysis

2. Risk management

3. Technical and analytical tools

4. Data analysis and business intelligence

5. Leadership and professional development

Flexible Online Learning Options: CFI’s courses are available online, allowing you to complete them at your own pace. With flexible access, you can balance learning with your other commitments while keeping up with your CPE credits.
Industry Expertise and Real-World Focus: CFI courses are led by finance professionals with real-world experience. You’ll gain skills that are immediately applicable to your day-to-day work, enhancing both your current job performance and career path.

In addition, CFI’s all-access membership options provide access to all accredited CPE courses. You can choose from an array of topics, such as core finance skills, risk management or leadership, to complete credits in the areas most relevant to your goals.

CFI can be your partner in achieving these goals through CPE courses that match your career aspirations.

Embracing the Benefits of CPE Courses

So, what is a CPE course? It’s a powerful tool for skill-building, career growth, and professional advancement, beyond just fulfilling certification requirements. By choosing the right CPE courses and making the most of your budget, you’re investing in your future. CFI’s wide selection of CPE-approved courses ensures finance professionals stay current, enhance their job performance, and gain skills that can propel their careers forward.

Ready to take the next step? Explore CFI’s catalog of CPE courses, select a membership option, and start earning your CPE credits today.

Earn Your Credits!