Fund Administration Qualifications

The funds industry has grown extensively over the last decade but has experienced significant turbulence and change in recent times. The ability of fund professionals to adapt to current circumstances will, to a degree, determine the success of their funds.

Industry change creates opportunities, but it also increases demands. The role of domestic and international fund administrators is challenging. They must ensure that the fund is being run in accordance with its published objectives and that its back-office operations are managed efficiently and effectively for the benefit of the investors. This function is becoming increasingly specialised and requires professional skills across a range of disciplines, including legal, accounting, management and investment.

The Diploma in Fund Administration covers all of the major aspects of the fund industry, particularly the organisation and operations of a fund. It is designed to provide administrators with the knowledge and professional skills required to undertake the daily operations of a fund in a consistent, productive and competent manner.

Designed for fund practitioners, the Diploma provides detailed knowledge and practical skills. It is a certificated, professional education programme. Awarded in association with the University of Manchester Business School, the Diploma is a benchmark qualification demonstrating excellence in fund administration.

The Diploma is suitable for those fund practitioners who are relatively new to the industry as well as those who already have some practical experience and want to improve their knowledge. Individuals who complete the Diploma will gain a practical insight into the fund industry and be able to fulfil their responsibilities with confidence. By drawing upon international best practice, the Diploma helps prepare fund practitioners to adapt and change to meet the challenges of a constantly evolving external environment.

Key Features

A degree-level, certificated programme resulting in a recognised practical qualification
Awarded in association with the University of Manchester Business School
Comprehensive, detailed Course Manuals
Web Seminars to support the course
Course materials written by experienced industry practitioners
Extensive support and resource material

Key Benefits

Improved knowledge
Developed skills
Reduced reputational and financial risk for firms
Enhanced workplace performance
Potential for career progression

Course Structure

The course is divided into two parts:

Part 1 - Advanced Certificate in Fund Administration

Part 2 - Diploma in Fund Administration

Part 1 of the programme leading to the Advanced Certificate in Fund Administration will normally be completed in five-six months. The curriculum has a common syllabus that applies to all areas of Fund Administration.

Part 2 of the programme requires the delegate to select a pathway.

There are there pathways:

Hedge Fund
Retail Funds
Private Equity and Property Funds

Delegates will be given the Course Manuals for all three pathways but for the purpose of specialization and assessment the delegate will select one pathway only.

Having selected the pathway and studied the content of the Course Manual (Part 2 [a]) delegates will study a common component on Accounting and NAV (part 2 [b]).

Programme Delivery

All delegates will receive:

Comprehensive Course Manuals
Course Handbook
Access to a website support system including online seminars

Delegates have the choice of attending local workshops or studying by way of distance learning.

Assessment

The programme is assessed by way of written assignment and open-book examination.

Part 1 - Advanced Certificate in Fund Administration

This part of the programme is assessed by way of a written assignment (2,500-3,000 words).

Part 2 - Diploma in Fund Administration

This part of the programme is assessed by way of a written assignment (2,500-3,000 words) and a 3 hour open book examination at the end of the programme.

The delegate will select an assignment question for the pathway they have chosen (Part 2a) on either Hedge Funds, Retails Funds or Private Equity and Property Funds.

The examination at the end of the programme will require the delegate to answer questions on the chosen pathway (Part 2b).

Delegates may bring their Course Manual and materials into the examination.

Workshops

The Advanced Certificate is taught via a full 3 day workshop. The tutor focuses on the core content of the course and prepares the student to submit their assignment.

Once the student has selected a pathway for diploma study, they will attend a one day workshop on their pathway area. Hedge Funds, Retails Fund or Property and Private Equity Funds and a one day workshop on Accounting and NAVs (minimum 2 days). Optionally they may attend the one day workshop in the other pathway areas if they choose (no additional costs). (See timetable).

If enrolments on the workshop do not meet the required number, you will be invited onto the distance learning option.

Distance Learning

This option involves independent study of the course materials without attendance at the workshops. Those who choose this option will receive additional materials including workbooks covering the content delivered on the workshops, receive additional support from a tutor and will be given a programme of web seminars (Webinars) covering the content of the programme.

Duration of the Programme

Part 1 of the programme – the Advanced Certificate is designed to be completed within 6 months with the 3-day workshop being conducted half-way through the programme and prior to the assignment submission.

The Diploma component will be completed within a further 4-5 months (see detailed timetable).

Qualification Awarded

The Advanced Certificate is awarded at the end of Part 1 of the programme and is assessed by way of the assignment. The Diploma is awarded at the end of Part 2. The Qualification is awarded in association with the University of Manchester Business School (MBS).

Quality-assured by the University the programme content is at Honours Degree level and has been designated as a ‘Graduate Diploma.’

Furthermore, a number of universities may give credit for the work that is completed on the Diploma against a degree or masters-level qualification.

BSc in Fund Administration

CLTI is working with the University of Manchester Business School to create a BSc in Fund Administration. The Advanced Certificate and the Diploma in Fund Administration will comprise part of the programme.

It is expected that holders of the Diploma in Fund Administration will be required to complete a one year top-up programme consisting of four 30 credit modules to attain the BSc. This will be studied part-time and workshops will be conducted in jurisdictions where the Diploma is offered. Further information on this project will be issued in early 2010 (subject to final approval).

How to Apply

If you wish to apply for a course, download and complete the enrolment form and returned by fax or post to:

CLT International

Wrens Court

52-54 Victoria Road

Sutton Coldfield

West Midlands B72 1SX

United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)121 362 7501

Fax: +44 (0)121 240 3002

Fund Administration Qualifications