RPA – Retirement Plans Associate

Short Summary

RPA – Retirement Plans Associate

The RPA – Retirement Plans Associate designation is a specialty credential awarded by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) in collaboration with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. It is designed for professionals working with defined contribution (DC) and defined benefit (DB) retirement plans. RPA holders are recognized for their ability to design, manage, and evaluate retirement plan structures, investment strategies, and fiduciary responsibilities.

The program includes three required courses: RPA 1 – Directing Retirement Plans Part 1, RPA 2 – Directing Retirement Plans Part 2, and GBA/RPA 3 – Strategic Benefits Management. Each course is self-paced and culminates in a 100-question virtual exam. The curriculum covers plan types, ERISA compliance, asset management, behavioral finance, and strategic plan design. Completion of these courses also counts toward the CEBS – Certified Employee Benefit Specialist designation. No prerequisites are required, and candidates may study independently or join an online study group with instructor support.

Earning the RPA signals advanced fluency in retirement plan administration and strategic benefits consulting. Designees are often employed as plan administrators, consultants, investment analysts, or fiduciary advisors, and are valued for their ability to align retirement offerings with organizational goals and regulatory standards. The RPA complements broader credentials such as CEBS, GBA, and QKA, and supports career growth in retirement planning, benefits strategy, and fiduciary governance.

Issued by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) in collaboration with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.