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  1. Courses
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  3. Financial Modeling Fundamentals

Financial Modeling Fundamentals

This course introduces learners to the process of building structured, assumption-driven financial models in Microsoft Excel.

Michael McDonald
Michael McDonald
Business | core | 9 hours |   Published: Oct 2025

    Discussions

Overview

1KSTUDENTS*
96.8%RECOMMEND*

This course includes:

  • On-demand videos
  • Practice assessments
  • Multiple hands-on learning activities
  • Exposure to a real-world project
  • 100% self-paced learning opportunities
  • Certification of completion

This course introduces learners to the process of building structured, assumption-driven financial models in Microsoft Excel. Starting with best practices for model layout, formula writing, and documentation, students learn to build dynamic operating models from the ground up. The course then explores forecasting techniques for revenue, expenses, and working capital, and teaches how to integrate the three core financial statements into a cohesive, automated model. Students also gain experience with scenario analysis, sensitivity testing, and basic model error-checking. The course emphasizes real-world Excel application and prepares learners to create professional-grade tools for financial decision-making. 

Skills You Will Gain

Business Modeling
Financial Forecasting
Analysis
Automation
Documentation

Learning Outcomes (At The End Of This Program, You Will Be Able To...)

  • Apply Excel modeling best practices to structure financial models for accuracy and usability. 
  • Forecast revenues, expenses, and working capital using assumption-driven logic. 
  • Build an integrated three-statement model and perform scenario/sensitivity analysis.

Prerequisites

Learners should have a basic understanding of financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow) and proficiency with Excel fundamentals such as formulas, formatting, and data organization. No prior modeling experience is required—just curiosity and attention to detail.

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for aspiring financial analysts, accountants, business managers, and professionals who want to strengthen their Excel modeling and forecasting skills. It’s ideal for those seeking to enhance their ability to build and interpret dynamic financial models for budgeting, valuation, or decision-making.

Curriculum

Instructors

*Where courses have been offered multiple times, the “# Students” includes all students who have enrolled. The “%Recommended” shown is also based on this data.
Michael McDonald

Michael McDonald

With over a decade of expertise in finance and economics, supported by a PhD in Finance and extensive teaching experience at Fairfield University, he is committed to delivering in-depth insights into financial accounting, analysis, and business valuation. His academic journey is distinguished by numerous publications on topics ranging from stock returns to bond market dynamics, reflecting a profound understanding of global financial markets. Renowned for his dynamic teaching style, he seamlessly blends theoretical concepts with real-world applications. He has taught a diverse range of courses, from foundational investments to advanced project analysis and factor-based investing, consistently crafting tailored coursework to enhance student learning outcomes. His professional background as a municipal bond trader and senior editor at Seeking Alpha brings practical insights and industry relevance to his instruction. This unique blend of academic rigor and real-world expertise equips students with critical analytical skills, empowering them to navigate today’s complex financial landscape with confidence. Passionate about knowledge dissemination, he excels in both traditional and e-learning environments, fostering an engaging and transformative learning experience. His courses are meticulously designed to make complex financial concepts accessible and actionable, bridging the gap between theory and practice. With a dedication to inspiring the next generation of finance professionals, he remains a trusted mentor and thought leader in the field.
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1Chapter 1: Model Structure and Layout
2Chapter 2: Formula Design and Dynamic Functions
3Chapter 3: Model Documentation and Auditability
4Chapter 4: Revenue Forecasting Techniques
5Chapter 5: Cost and SG&A Forecasting
6Chapter 6: Working Capital Forecasting
7Chapter 7: Linking the Three Financial Statements
8Chapter 8: Cash Flow Derivation and Validation Checks
9Chapter 9: Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

Segment 00: Welcome to the Course: Course Overview

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!

You need to enroll in this course to access the curriculum. Click 'Enroll' to get started!