RBA Designation | CFA Society Netherlands

The RBA designation (Register Beleggingsanalist) is a professional qualification for experienced professionals in the investment management industry.

Earning the RBA designation demonstrates that holders have developed in-depth expertise, sharpened their analytical judgment, and built leadership skills. They operate at a senior professional level, are ready to take on complex challenges in the investment management industry, and show a long-term commitment to the highest professional standards. It also signals dedication, as completing it requires years of focused learning and professional growth.

The path to the RBA designation

Complete six masterclasses at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and one Leadership Masterclass at a cooperating university (the 6+1 model) within three years
Deliver a final integrative presentation before an expert panel convened by CFA Society Netherlands
Earn the RBA designation, recognized as a mark of credibility and professionalism throughout your career

Who is it for?

Active investment professionals with at least 3 to 5 years of relevant experience, or
Professionals with significant prior experience enabling them to credibly carry the designation.
Hold at least a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, business, or a related field.

The RBA designation requirements are determined by VBA Academy / CFA Society Netherlands. The curriculum is designed and delivered in partnership with VU Amsterdam and with a cooperating university for the Leadership Masterclass.

Curriculum: the 6+1 model

6 masterclasses from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- 2 thematic masterclasses are offered per year
- 1 skills-focused masterclass is offered per year
1 Leadership Masterclass from a cooperating university is offered every two years
All masterclasses must be completed within three years to qualify for the designation

Each masterclass includes:

Preparatory work (pre-readings, cases)
In-person sessions (lectures, discussions, peer interaction)
An assignment aligned with the learning goals of each masterclass

Final Presentation and Capstone

The learning journey concludes with a final integrative presentation, such as a case study or thesis defense, before an expert panel convened by CFA Society Netherlands. 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 their professional development and contribution

Academic Standards

The programme workload corresponds to seven postgraduate-level masterclasses
The RBA designation is continuously reviewed and improved in close cooperation with academic and institutional partners, ensuring its quality, relevance and long-term value
The RBA designation trajectory also counts for the Professional Learning credits. You can find more information here

Fees:

€ 2.150 per masterclass (when registering for the full cycle of Vrije Universiteit masterclasses). The fee is exempt from VAT.
The fee for the Leadership Masterclass will be known prior to the announcement of the masterclass

The fee inculdes the (digital) course materials, the course and catering (where applicable).

Terms and Conditions Masterclasses/RBA designation apply. These can be viewed here.

Registered candidates for a masterclass and/or in the RBA designation are invited to apply for candidate membership of CFA Society Netherlands. More information can be found here.

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