Message from the Faculty Leader

The MS in Financial Planning program at New York University is designed for those aspiring to build a career in personal financial planning and wealth advisory services. With job growth in this field projected at 13% over the next decade—significantly faster than the average for all occupations (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)—now is an ideal time to enter this dynamic and rewarding profession.

Our program offers a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping students with the expertise needed to excel in the industry. Courses are delivered by distinguished faculty, including full-time professors, experienced financial professionals, and industry thought leaders. The curriculum covers the core CFP® requirements, qualifying students to sit for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) exam, and includes two specialized tracks: Financial Analytics and Behavioral Finance (students will choose one).

In the Financial Analytics track, students complete three courses designed to enhance their analytical skills across various domains. This concentration prepares students to address complex financial scenarios with advanced analytical techniques, which are highly sought after in the industry.

The Behavioral Finance track delves into clients’ decision-making processes and cognitive biases, examining how choices can affect financial decisions, both positively and negatively. Students will gain insights into these biases and learn strategies to help clients make more informed financial decisions.

Join us at NYU to earn your master’s degree, qualify for the CFP® exam, and acquire the advanced knowledge and skills that will set you apart in the financial planning field.


Toshiaki Mitsudome, PhD, CFP®
Faculty Lead and Clinical Professor

Toshi Mitsudome

Prior to joining NYU, Toshi Mitsudome held a tenured associate professorship in accounting at Hunter College (CUNY) for over 20 years. During his tenure at Hunter, he served as academic director for both the BS and MS Accounting programs. Toshi earned his PhD in Accounting and MBA in International Business from Baruch College (CUNY), and a BA in Economics from Kanagawa University in Japan. He holds several professional designations including Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA). At NYU, Toshi specializes in teaching courses in investment analytics, applied statistics, personal finance analytics and research. His teaching portfolio spans financial and managerial accounting, finance and investment, data analytics, business ethics, communications, and research methodology and applications. His academic research interests focus on corporate governance, international accounting, finance, and investment. He has authored articles in peer-reviewed journals and has written a textbook on financial statement analysis for investing, released in Japanese. Before pursuing an academic career, Toshi held diverse positions including Vice President of Global Marketing at Kyodo News International and served as CEO/CFO and board member at several technology and business process outsourcing start-ups. With a broad business and consulting background that spans across continents, he also runs a private practice providing personal financial planning and advisory services.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Toshi enjoys global travel, hiking, golf, swimming, reading, movies, and playing musical instruments.