Meeting a Regional Need for Fintech Professionals

With nearly 50,000 Georgians employed in fintech, the Georgia Fintech Academy plays a vital role in preparing students for careers in this rapidly growing industry.

Housed at Georgia State University but open to students from all 26 institutions in the University System of Georgia (USG), the Academy delivers specialized courses designed to develop in-demand skills. Its industry-driven curriculum is complemented by resources like podcasts, speaker series, career fairs, and a job board.

A Strategic Workforce Initiative

The Academy was established in 2019 as a response to fintech leaders’ call for a dedicated talent pipeline in Georgia. The state is a global hub for fintech innovation, especially in digital payments, where companies headquartered in Atlanta process approximately 70% of the world’s credit and debit card transactions.

Courses are accessible online, allowing students across Georgia to earn credit toward degrees or certifications. The foundational curriculum, developed by Georgia State faculty, explores topics such as banking and fintech, financial data analytics, and cybersecurity. Recent additions, created by Kennesaw State University faculty, focus on digital payments, ensuring the program evolves alongside industry needs.

Partnering with Industry for Real-World Impact

The Academy maintains close ties with fintech companies to ensure its offerings remain relevant. Industry experts help design course content, mentor students, and provide opportunities for hands-on learning through action innovation projects.

One recent project tasked students with creating a risk management framework for “buy now, pay later” programs. In another, students explored how merchants could accept cryptocurrency payments. These experiences give students practical insights and help bridge the gap between academia and the workplace.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

The Georgia Fintech Academy also prioritizes equity and diversity. Of the 5,200 students who have taken at least one course, 72% are from underrepresented groups, and 43% are women. This commitment extends to executive education programs, like the Academy’s new “Banking and Fintech for Diverse Suppliers” initiative.

Developed in partnership with Fiserv and Synchrony, this six-week virtual program empowers business leaders from historically marginalized groups with skills to succeed in the fintech supply chain.

Supporting Student Success

In addition to coursework, the Academy offers valuable resources such as a podcast series featuring fintech professionals, hybrid speaker events, and monthly career fairs that connect students with top employers. These efforts have yielded impressive results: over 5,000 students have taken Fintech Academy courses, and more than 1,650 graduates have secured positions in the fintech sector.

Looking ahead, the Academy aims to expand its offerings and increase engagement with students early in their academic journeys. By fostering innovation and collaboration, it continues to strengthen Georgia’s reputation as a fintech leader.