CSI Course Based Model

CSI began offering the Money Smart Financial Coaching Program™ in the fall of 2025, with a noncredit course embedded into programs that enable student success. The MSFCP™ was integrated into the Math Start program, a course designed for students who need to raise their math proficiency. The instructor of the course was also the coach, which was intended to ensure that students received integrated instruction.

In addition to the embedded course, students enrolled in the CUNY Start program were invited to participate in a series of six sessions using the MSFCP™ modules designed to strengthen their financial literacy and long-term financial decision-making skills. These sessions offer students a structured and supportive environment to develop essential financial skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and personal lives.

In spring, 2026, CSI shifted its Money Smart program to offer a one-credit course given as part of the ASAP program, an accelerated associate degree completion program, adding another way for students to build important life skills. The MSFCP program is supported by a team of individuals from Enrollment Management, Financial Aid, and CUNY Start. A small cohort of noncredit students also enrolled in MSFCP in the spring 2026 semester.

Progress to Date
For the 2025 Fall Semester, CSI enrolled 17 students. 14 passed the course and participated in at least two financial coaching sessions for a completion rate of 82.4%. Other milestones include:

• 50% of the students participated in 3+ coaching sessions
• 100% created a budget
• 71% achieved a financial goal
• 36% increased their savings while participating in MSFCP with an average savings increase of $146
• 14% decreased their debt while participating in MSFCP with an average debt reduction of $1,050