Financial Certification Enhances Career Growth

Duke University Financial Service's new Financial Certification Program is a confidence booster. Launched in April and open to University and Health System employees, the free program offers two tracks: one for payroll representatives; the other for financial systems specialists.

"Participants who complete the program prove they understand Duke's various financial systems, and how to use available resources to make sound decisions," said Gwen Hall-DiFabio, coordinator for Education and Training in Corporate Payroll Services. She is also one of the program's architects. "Managers can have confidence that certified employees understand how to navigate Duke's financial systems efficiently and correctly, which is good for departments and strengthens Duke's internal processes."

The Certified Payroll Representative (CPRep) track is for staff with payroll responsibilities. The Certified Financial Systems Specialists (FSS) track is open to staff assistants, staff specialists, financial analysts, "or anyone who reconciles financial statements, monitors the status of a cost object, or posts expenses," said Christeen Butler, curriculum leader for the Financial Systems Specialists track.

Both tracks are accepting new students and offer comprehensive training in fundamental concepts surrounding successful financial oversight. Participants have two to six months to take several half-day courses, pass course quizzes and sit for a final, three-hour certification exam.

Through October, employees with advanced financial experience at Duke can opt out of the classes and proceed straight to the Certification Exam. Supervisory support is required for participation in full certification, as well as the test-out option.

The next phase of the program will incorporate a Financial Manager track and certification for Procurement and Accounts Payable.