Banking Fundamentals Course

Banking Fundamentals Course

452 reviews
1,245 enrolled students

$129

Master the basics of banking systems, account types, and how to evaluate banking offers to make informed choices. This comprehensive course is perfect for beginners who want to understand how banks work and how to choose the right banking services.

10 hours of content
Downloadable resources
Self-paced learning
Lifetime access
Certificate of completion

About This Course

The Banking Fundamentals Course is designed for anyone who wants to understand how banking systems work and how to make informed decisions about their personal finances. Whether you're opening your first bank account or looking to optimize your current banking relationships, this course provides all the essential knowledge you need.

What You'll Learn

  • The history and purpose of banking institutions
  • Different types of banks and financial institutions (commercial banks, credit unions, online banks, etc.)
  • Types of bank accounts (checking, savings, money market, CDs) and their purposes
  • Understanding interest rates, APY, and how they affect your money
  • Common banking fees and how to avoid them
  • Banking regulations and consumer protections (FDIC insurance, etc.)
  • How to read and understand bank statements and disclosures
  • Digital banking tools and security features
  • How to compare banking offers and choose the right institution
  • Essential banking terminology every consumer should know

Who This Course is For

  • Banking beginners who want to understand the fundamentals
  • Young adults establishing their first banking relationships
  • People looking to switch banks or optimize their current banking setup
  • Small business owners learning about business banking options
  • Anyone who wants to make more informed financial decisions

By the end of this course, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of how banks operate, the various types of accounts available, and how to evaluate which banking solutions best meet your specific needs. You'll gain confidence in managing your banking relationships and making financial decisions that support your goals.

Course Curriculum

Module 1: Introduction to Banking

1.5 hours
  • The Purpose and History of Banking
  • Types of Financial Institutions
  • How Banks Make Money
  • Banking Regulations and Consumer Protections
  • Quiz: Banking Basics

Module 2: Banking Products and Services

2 hours
  • Checking Accounts: Types and Features
  • Savings Accounts and CDs
  • Money Market Accounts
  • Understanding Overdraft Protection
  • Banking Cards: Debit, ATM, Credit
  • Additional Services: Wire Transfers, Cashier's Checks
  • Assignment: Comparing Account Types

Module 3: Banking Economics

2 hours
  • Interest Rates Explained
  • Understanding APY and Compound Interest
  • Common Banking Fees and How They Work
  • Minimum Balances and Account Requirements
  • How Banks Set Their Rates and Fees
  • Exercise: Calculating the True Cost of Banking

Module 4: Digital Banking

1.5 hours
  • Online Banking Platforms
  • Mobile Banking Apps and Features
  • Electronic Transfers and Payments
  • Digital Banking Security Best Practices
  • Emerging Technologies in Banking
  • Tutorial: Setting Up and Using Digital Banking Tools

Module 5: Choosing the Right Bank

2 hours
  • Assessing Your Banking Needs
  • Traditional vs. Online Banks: Pros and Cons
  • Credit Unions vs. Commercial Banks
  • Reading the Fine Print: Terms and Conditions
  • Bank Reviews and Ratings: What to Look For
  • Customer Service Considerations
  • Final Project: Creating Your Banking Selection Plan

Bonus Materials

1 hour
  • Banking Terminology Glossary
  • Bank Comparison Spreadsheet Template
  • Fee Negotiation Scripts
  • Banking Red Flags Checklist
  • Expert Interviews with Banking Professionals
Instructor Elizabeth Harris

Elizabeth Harris

Former Banking Executive, Financial Educator

15+ Years in Banking
8,500+ Students
12 Courses

Elizabeth Harris spent 15 years in the banking industry, including roles as a branch manager, loan officer, and financial advisor at several major banks. She holds an MBA in Finance and is a Certified Financial Educator. Elizabeth is passionate about making banking and financial concepts accessible to everyone and has been teaching banking fundamentals for over 7 years.

Her teaching approach combines real-world banking insights with practical, actionable advice that students can apply immediately to their own financial situations. Elizabeth regularly consults with banks on improving their customer education programs and writes for several financial publications.

Student Reviews

4.9

Based on 452 reviews

5 stars
92%
4 stars
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M

Michael T.

March 15, 2024

This course was exactly what I needed! I've always been intimidated by banking jargon, but Elizabeth breaks everything down so clearly. The spreadsheet for comparing banks was particularly helpful - I used it to find a new bank that saves me over $150 in fees annually. Highly recommend!

S

Sarah K.

February 28, 2024

As someone just starting out with my first real job, I had no idea how to choose a bank or what to look for. This course gave me the confidence to ask the right questions and understand what different account features meant. I especially appreciated the section on avoiding fees. Would recommend to any young adult.

J

James L.

January 17, 2024

I've been with the same bank for 20 years and never questioned if it was the right choice. This course opened my eyes to how much banking has changed and all the options available now. Elizabeth's insider knowledge about how banks actually operate was eye-opening. I've switched to a high-yield account and am now earning real interest on my savings. Thank you!

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