DWU Trust Certificate Program

Dakota Wesleyan University offers two trust management programs. DWU, based in Mitchell, S.D., will begin the first cohort for a new graduate certificate in trust management in January 2019. As a response from industry leaders, DWU has created a unique and comprehensive curriculum for professionals wanting to sharpen their knowledge of trusts and estates, wealth management, tax law and client relationship management. This flexible program is primarily delivered in an online format, with some face-to-face requirements. DWU also offers a business administration degree with a concentration in trust management for traditional undergraduate students starting fall 2018.

Applications are open! For more information, visit www.dwu.edu/trustcertificate.

Ready to Succeed?

Several major banking and financial institutions have recently identified the need for further education and tailored training in the trust management job market. Dakota Wesleyan University is now offering a program to prepare individuals for this high-need and growing industry.

Courses are designed to strengthen oral and written communication skills, enhance an understanding of wills, trusts and estates, and sharpen knowledge of financial and digital efforts.

Are you up to the challenge? Apply now!

"No one goes to school thinking, ‘I want to be a trust officer,’ until now! According to the American Bankers Association, in the next five to 10 years, the trust industry will encounter a retirement wave of trust officers as baby boomers leave their careers. The task of filling empty positions is challenged by the growth of the trust industry itself. Trusts & Estates magazine, January 2018, ranks South Dakota the highest ranked jurisdiction in the United States in all categories. There is a need in our state for trained trust professionals, and the need is now. I would encourage students in South Dakota to pursue a rewarding, yet challenging, career in trust where you have the opportunity to learn this kaleidoscopic combination of skills: financial planning, fiduciary and trust administration, investment management, ethics, and tax law and tax planning. South Dakota offers domestic and international opportunities with the variety of trust companies we have in our state. Dakota Wesleyan University’s trust program is a response to the need in South Dakota and trust industry as a whole."

Jessica Beavers, senior vice president and trust officer, Sawmill Trust Company, Sioux Falls, S.D.

Hybrid program
Offering a well-blended mix of an online and onsite class schedule, this program will demonstrate the importance of in-person and digital meetings.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide students with specific skills while building a network of employers prepared to offer opportunities.
12 months
Coursework is divided into six courses over 12 months, offering students the flexibility of working full time or part time.

Endorsed by

“Dakota Wesleyan University has received approval for the curriculum, ‘Graduate Certificate in Trust Management’ from ABA Professional Certifications. This curriculum meets the educational requirements necessary for candidates to sit for the CTFA Examination. ABA Professional Certifications is dedicated to promoting the highest standards of performance and ethics within the financial services industry. Note: Individual candidates must also meet the experience tier requirement for exam application eligibility.” – American Bankers Association

Program Requirements & Course Details

18 total credit hours
Previous coursework, such as Business Law I, Business Law II, Business Ethics, and Understanding Wills, Trusts, and Estates, may be preferred but not required.
Applicants will be admitted to the program based on undergraduate performance, background check, application essay and application interview.