RBA Designation

The RBA curriculum is designed and delivered by VBA Academy / CFA Society Netherlands in cooperation with VU Amsterdam and a partner university for the leadership masterclass.

Curriculum

• 6 masterclasses from VU Amsterdam over two years
  • 2 thematic or topical masterclasses per year
  • 1 skills-focused masterclass per year
• 1 Leadership Masterclass from a partner university
• 3 masterclasses are offered per year from the VU Amsterdam and the Leadership masterclass is offered once in two years
• The 7 masterclasses must be completed within three years to qualify for the designation

Assessments

• Each masterclass includes:
  • Preparatory work (pre-readings, cases)
  • In-person sessions (lectures, discussions, peer interaction)
  • An assessment determined by VU Amsterdam (or the leadership partner)
• Learning goals are consistent across the curriculum:
  • Applying professional knowledge and judgment
  • Demonstrating ethical awareness and leadership
  • Showing adaptability and critical reflection

Final Presentation and Capstone

The programme concludes with a final integrative presentation (case study or thesis defense), reviewed by:

• Members of the CFA Society Netherlands Board
• Invited industry experts

This capstone assesses the candidate’s ability to:

• Synthesize and apply insights from across the curriculum
• Exhibit seniority, ethical awareness, and leadership in solving real-world challenges
• Reflect on professional development and contribution

Academic Standards

• The workload corresponds to seven postgraduate-level masterclasses.

Fees:

• € 2.150 per masterclass when registering for the full cycle of masterclasses
• The fee for the Leadership masterclass will be known prior to the announcement of the masterclass

Terms and Conditions Masterclasses/RBA designation apply.