The SII Masters in Wealth Management (SIIM WM) was launched only in March, but take up for the 18-month course is already “considerably above target.”

The SII reports a 61 per cent increase in entrants for the December Financial Markets exam, and the endorsement of the FSSC is likely to push take up even higher.

The programme, which was developed by senior wealth managers from a number of major firms, includes traditional instruments and products, alternatives and ethical investment, and is comprised of three modules: Financial Markets, Portfolio Construction Theory and Applied Wealth Management. 

According to the Institute, candidates for the qualification range from trainees aiming to gain a formal qualification to experienced wealth managers who want to enhance their CVs, along with professionals looking at wealth management as a new career area.

The SII is also planning to launch an International Certificate in Wealth Management in 2009, which will replace the International Certificate in Financial Advice.  This qualification will be at around first year undergraduate level.