Core Financial Principles 101

Designed to provide the building blocks for financial management best practices, these trainings will help you establish a solid baseline around the fundamentals of university finance. 

Employees who complete the six required courses will earn a Finance 101 certificate of excellence:

  1. Ethics and Fraud in the Workplace
  2. Fund Accounting and the Common Chart of Accounts
  3. Reporting and Using FinHub
  4. University Travel and Concur
  5. Purchasing Fundamentals
  6. Entertainment and Catering
  7. Cash Handling and Internal Controls (Optional)

Courses may be taken in any order, and a certificate will automatically be awarded once all six courses are complete. 
 

Ethics and Fraud in the Workplace

Discover the fundamental principles of ethics and fraud prevention in the workplace to maintain a culture of integrity and transparency at UCSB. This course will provide participants with an understanding of ethical challenges and fraud risks that may arise while working at the University, while equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to navigate these challenges effectively.

Fund Accounting and the Common Chart of Accounts

Delve into the specialized world of fund accounting tailored for higher education institutions. This course will provide an overview of fund-based accounting and UCSB's Common Chart of Accounts along with an understanding of the significance of accurate financial reporting for universities. Participants will also learn to differentiate between endowments, scholarships, grants, and other fund categories.

Reporting and Using FinHub

This course provides an overview of our campus financial reporting tool, "FinHub", including how to filter, save, and customize reports.  Whether you are managing a departmental budget or overseeing a research grant, this session will equip you with the skills to interpret complex reports and make data-driven financial decisions.

University Travel and Concur

Navigating the intricacies of the University travel policy and efficiently utilizing Concur is essential for both UCSB staff and faculty. This comprehensive course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and comply with travel policies while effectively using Concur to streamline expense reporting and reimbursement processes.

Cash Handling and Internal Controls

This course is designed to help staff understand internal controls, why they are important, and how to ensure adequate controls exist in their department. We will also cover steps to take when handling cash, checks, or credit cards in a department and appropriate safeguards.

Purchasing Fundamentals

Ready to unravel the complexities of UC policy and local campus purchasing procedures?  Join us for a discussion as we talk about best practices, types of purchases, and how to purchase.  We will also cover various programs such as the Small and Diverse Business Program, Conflict of Interest, and when to go out to bid.

Entertainment Policies & Procedures

Hosting guests or organizing a UCSB event encompasses far more than simply contacting a caterer. In today's dynamic landscape, staying compliant with new California laws and union agreements is imperative. This course offers a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in ensuring your entertainment and catering practices align seamlessly with UC policy and best practices.