Free online coursePersonal Finance

Course Description

The course "Personal Finance" is a comprehensive learning experience designed to equip students with crucial knowledge in personal finance and investments. Spanning 10 hours and 40 minutes, this online course delves into a wide range of financial topics essential for making informed decisions and managing personal finances effectively. Though it has not yet garnered any reviews, its content is vast and robust, preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of financial planning and investments.

As part of the Business Administration category, with a specific focus on Investments, this course covers essential aspects of auto insurance. You'll start by understanding different types of auto insurance, including Bodily Injury Liability Coverage, Property Damage Liability Coverage, Collision Insurance, and Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage. Alongside, you will explore the differences between Split Limit and Single Limit insurance policies to better protect yourself on the road.

Taxes can be daunting, but this course simplifies the complex topic by covering the four main types of taxes we pay and explaining why we pay them. Learners will gain insights into federal income tax, how to calculate it, and the distinctions between tax deductions and tax credits. Additionally, there’s an introduction to estate, inheritance, gift, and property taxes; as well as a guide on how to calculate sales and excise taxes, making even the most convoluted tax situations manageable.

Understanding mortgages is another key element of the course. From calculating mortgage payments to comparing 15-year and 30-year mortgages, you'll become adept at evaluating the best mortgage options. The course doesn't stop there; it dives into advanced topics like graduated payment mortgages, negative amortization, balloon mortgages, and more. Essential aspects like home equity, title insurance, and earnest money are also covered to ensure you're well-prepared for any real estate decision.

Investing is a significant part of personal finance, and this course offers a thorough introduction to mutual funds and municipal bonds. You'll learn the characteristics, types, and tax implications of these financial instruments. By understanding the expense ratios, net asset value, and the risks and rewards of different funds and bonds, you can make informed investment choices that align with your financial goals.

The course also addresses key financial concepts like the time value of money, future and present value of cash flows, and the intricacies of short selling stocks. These are crucial for developing a sound financial strategy and making prudent investment decisions.

For students, the course provides an extensive guide to financial aid, explaining how to pay for college even with limited means. It covers the FAFSA, CSS PROFILE, the types of federal and private student loans, and various grants and work-study opportunities. Detailed explanations about financial aid eligibility, expected family contribution, and student aid report are included to help you navigate the U.S. college funding process effectively.

Finally, the course touches on strategies to minimize student debt, manage loan repayments, and explore forgiveness options. It also discusses educational savings accounts like Coverdell ESA and 529 Plans, providing comprehensive insights into planning and saving for higher education.