Course syllabus and information

Financial Services in Risk Management course syllabus

The Certificate is made up of two modules that are designed to be studied together. Learning in module 1 explores elements of the risk management process, while module 2 explains how organisational culture and appetite for risk may affect the implementation of such processes. Similarly, the discussion of risk management standards in module 1 supports the study of governance and risk architecture in module 2.

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Module One: Principles of risk and risk management

This module introduces the principles and concepts of risk management in Financial Services. This leads to an examination of how to classify risks in a Financial Services environment and the approaches that are used to identify, assess and treat them.

Key topics include:

• Recognise the origins and key concepts of risk management
• Understand the regulatory environment in financial services
• Enterprise risk management
• Understand the main sources of risk within banks and insurers

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Module Two: Practice of risk management

This module explores the impact of the business environment on risk management in the banking and insurance sectors. Learn how corporate governance can influence risk architecture, culture, appetite and tolerance.

Key topics include:

• Case studies, including post-Financial Crisis
• Explore the impact of the wider business environment
• Study the Three Lines of Defence governance model
• Apply risk management frameworks

Download your copy of the syllabus »

Successful completion of these modules enables you to move on to the subsequent modules of the International Diploma in Risk Management.

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What is included in the fees?

You can study the International Certificate of Financial Services Risk Management through self-directed distance learning. Distance learning gives you the flexibility to study at home at your own pace. Our extensive global network of examination centres and our special centre policy means you can study and take your examinations anywhere in the world. 

Students will receive access to:

Online learning environment	Student handbook	Discussion forum	Module coaches

 

Revision webinars	Sample exam questions	Online resource centre	Dedicated student support team

Please note: Core textbooks for this qualification are not included in the course fees and need to be purchased separately.

We also offer a blended learning option for students who prefer a more interactive learning experience. These student-centred workshops will reinforce your understanding of the material and help you develop the practical skills needed to put your learning into practice. 

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What exam information do I need to know?

IRM’s examinations are online and computer-based. Module content will be assessed through the use of the learning outcomes. 

There are two examination sessions per year in June and December.

Examination session	Material	Activity
June 2023	Examination timetable	Download here >>
December 2023	Examination timetable	Download here >>

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What are the key dates for the December 2023 examination sessions?

Date	Activity
06 February 2023	Enrolment opens
	Access to the virtual learning environment (Moodle) becomes available upon payment
31 May 2023	Enrolment closes
01 June 2023	The official study period starts
20 – 24 November 2023	Principles of Risk & Risk Management exam
27 November - 01 December 2023	Practice of Risk Management exam

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What are the key dates for the June 2023 examination sessions?

Date	Activity
01 July 2022	Enrolment opens
	Access to the virtual learning environment (Moodle) becomes available upon payment
31 December 2022	Enrolment closes
01 January 2023	The official study period starts
01 January 2023	Enrolment extension opens
31 January 2023	Enrolment extension closes
05 – 09 June 2023	Principles of Risk & Risk Management exam
12 - 16 June 2023	Practice of Risk Management exam

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Where can I take the International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management exams?

Pearson VUE has an extensive test centre network across the world.

Students will be notified of the date they can book the test centre for the exam after they have enrolled on the qualification and their payment successfully processed.

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Are there any exemptions?

If you already hold one of the risk management qualifications on this list you will be exempt from the International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management and may apply directly to become a Certificate Member of IRM.

Download a Certificate Membership application form.

Download the Standard Exemptions application form.

You may also be exempt from some of the modules on the International Diploma in Risk Management, should you wish to continue towards a full professional qualification.

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How can I make special needs and access arrangements?

Wherever possible, examination arrangements will take into account any special requirements you have. If you complete an application for special arrangements, we must receive your completed form no later than 28 February for the June examinations, and by 31 July for the November/December examinations. This is to give us enough time to effectively help you with your requirements. While we aim to meet all requests, we cannot fulfil requirements where applications are received late.

Special arrangements application form

Special needs and access policy

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