NAB has signed an agreement for Deakin University to provide undergraduate and postgraduate courses for its financial advisers.

The deal also gives advisers access to group discounts on course fees for units in a range of programs, including the master of financial planning and master of professional practice.

NAB EGM Wealth Advice Greg Miller says the deal will let advisers tap into Deakin’s services and resources.

“We support advisers to continue their education,” he said.

“This new agreement with Deakin will provide our advisers with access to research into changes in the financial planning profession and the changing needs of consumers.”

Advisers can undertake studies online or in person, depending on the course.

Mr Miller says with further study, advisers can provide better outcomes for customers, to help build confidence in the industry.

“This initiative is another demonstration of NAB’s commitment to increasing professional standards,” he said. “We believe ethics is critical to the ongoing professionalism of the industry, and should be incorporated through professional learning as well as within ethical codes and processes of professional bodies.”