This course is designed to introduce the student to the basic concepts of personal finance and its increasingly important impact on consumers. Units of study cover the basic principles needed for effective personal financial management and the practical applications of banking, planning and budgeting, taxes, credit, insurance, housing, investments, and retirement planning. Students will also develop a keen understanding of consumer rights, responsibilities, and protection related to the units of study. Finance offers the students the opportunity to learn the skills necessary to manage personal finances and make sound financial decisions through a variety of methods that include the Internet, mathematics applications, financial publications, financial software applications, hands-on activities, and group projects. Students may take this course in conjunction with Cooperative Office Education (COE). This course is also available online.