STA Courses

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STA Online Diploma Part 1 Course, STA Diploma Part 2 Course, STA Diploma Part 1 & 2 Course Package.

STA Diploma Part 1 Online Course

STA Diploma Part 1 Online Course

This annual seven week, CISI accredited, online course teaches the basics of technical analysis. It also prepares students for the STA Diploma Part 1 examination, an internationally recognised part-qualification, which is equivalent to the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ (IFTA) CFTe I accreditation.

The course takes place from October to December each year. Lectures are delivered via live Zoom webinar and are fully interactive with students being able to ask questions as they would in a classroom. Any students unable to watch live will be able to catch up with a recording post event and email the STA office if any questions. They may also post questions on the STA Student Forum which will be answered by course lecturers. Students are able to gain access to all lecture recordings for the duration of the course.

The course includes the seven evening lectures and the Diploma Part 1 examination.

Dates for the 2024 course will be as follows: Lecture 1 (Weds 9 October); Lecture 2 (Weds 16 October); Lecture 3 (Weds 23 October); Lecture 4 (Weds 30 October); Lecture 5 (Weds 6 November); Lecture 6 (Weds 13 November); Lecture 7 (Weds 20 November); Diploma Part 1 Exam (Monday 2 December). The live online lectures will be held 6.00-8.00pm. The exam on 2 December will be held during the working day.

Please note that to take the course you must be a member of the STA. The cost for 12 months membership for an Associate Member is £85.00.

The 2024 course costs £1,395 if booked by 25 September 2024 (early bird); £1,595 thereafter.

Traders, brokers, dealers, fund managers, portfolio managers, market analysts, other investment professionals, private investors, academics and students.

This seven week course prepares students for the STA Diploma Part 1 examination, an internationally recognised part-qualification, accredited by the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA). It gives participants a basic understanding of technical analysis. The STA Diploma Part 1 examination is a two hour, 120 question, multiple choice exam. Candidates sit the exam in their own personal space, using Zoom invigilation.

Week 1: Financial Market Psychology and the Technical Approach
Introduction. Fundamental/quantitative/technical analysis comparison; some basic statistical terms used in quantitative and technical analysis. Overview of chart types (Line, Bar, Candlestick, and other Japanese chart types, Point & Figure). In-depth tuition on line and bar charts – construction and interpretation of each. Explanation of arithmetic vs logarithmic scaling. Introduction to the concepts of support, resistance and trend.

Week 2: Technical Analysis basics
In-depth session on support and resistance. Trends, and how to draw trend and return lines. Typical reversal patterns (eg. head and shoulders, double/triple tops) and typical continuation patterns (eg. different types of triangle, flags, pennants); target projections from patterns. Fibonacci numbers and retracements. Getting started on technical strategy.

Week 3: Candlestick charts
Construction and interpretation. The psychology behind the Doji, the Marabuzo (and importance of Marabuzo line), the Hammer, the Engulfing Pattern, the Abandoned Baby and different types of Star.

Week 4: Cycles, Dow Theory and the Elliott Wave Principle
Cycle theory Cycle theory – basic cycle qualities and principles; left and right translation; economic and seasonal cycle. Dow Theory – history; principles; relevance today. Elliott Wave Principle – mathematical basis and structure.

Week 5: Moving Averages, Bollinger Bands, working in three time frames
Moving average types (simple, weighted and exponential); positioning, combinations, interpretation. Moving average bands/envelopes, Bollinger Bands.

Week 6: Momentum indicators and oscillators
(RoC, RSI, Stochastics, MACD, Coppock). Other data series – volume (OBV), market breadth (A/D line), relative strength, sentiment measures (eg. AAII) and the “VIX”.

Week 7: Point and Figure charts
Construction; buy and sell signals; horizontal and vertical counts; target establishment, activation and cancellation; important patterns.

“Very interesting first part of course. It gives the keys to understand the basics of technical analysis and to be able to talk about it with someone more experienced.”
Nicolas Dupin, EDF Trading, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2022

“This course was perfect to learn the basics of technical analysis first hand from real experts. It definitely has helped me to become a better trader.”
Jacob Luckner, ADM, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2021

“Highly skilled lecturers providing knowledge on the cornerstones of technical analysis.”
Gergely Bangocs, Nestle, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2021

“An interesting and informative course for understanding and applying technical analysis as a concept.”
Niall Mackay, Triland, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2021

“I just would like to say what a great course this is and also what a great bunch of people running it. I can’t wait for part 2.”
Colin O’Keefe, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2020

“Course was informative and enjoyable. The lecturers were subject matter experts and knowledgeable ”
Matt Fitt, Shell, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2020

“I felt a whole different confidence in my technical analysis after the course. Very enriching”
Vicente Brilhante, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2019

“I found the lectures to be highly engaging and informative whilst the teachers are all clearly top class technical analysts. In addition, communication via email was timely, helpful with great access to online resources.”
Kunal Radia, Conoco Phillips, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2019

“The lecturers were of a very high calibre.It felt good learning from the people who have done it at the highest level.”
Michael Catnott, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2018

“The course met all of my expectations and I found the fact that we were learning from tutors with years of experience in the field particularly rewarding. I couldn’t recommend it enough for the amount of content it covered and the level of detail it went into. Thanks!”
Luke Connolly, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2018

“Good foundation to develop skills in TA. Good lecturers, all very engaging & passionate.”
Daisy-May Andrew, BNP Paribas, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2017

“Engaging lecturers with first-hand experience of putting market analysis into practice.”
William Robinson, Anglo American Marketing, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2017

“Very good course with varied exercises which I found very useful. As a beginner to technical analysis I learnt a great deal from the course.”
Hannah Whiting, Triland, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2016

“Fabulous Course!”
Sriharimohan Tsr, Student on the Diploma Part 1 Course 2016

STA Diploma Part 2 Online Course

STA Diploma Part 2 Online Course

The CISI accredited online Diploma Part 2 Course is aimed at those who already know the basics of technical analysis and who wish to acquire in-depth knowledge. It is taught by market professionals, authors and Fellows of the STA and also prepares students for the Diploma Part 2 examination, an internationally recognised qualification, which is equivalent to the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ (IFTA) CFTe II accreditation.

The course starts in January of each year and consists of 12 Wednesday evening lectures (from 6.00pm-8.00pm) spread over 12 weeks. Lectures are delivered via live Zoom webinar and are fully interactive with students being able to ask questions as they would in a classroom. Any students unable to watch live will be able to catch up with a recording post event and email the STA office if any questions. They may also post questions on the STA Student Forum which will be answered by course lecturers. Students are able to gain access to lecture recordings for the duration of the course.

Dates for the 2025 course are as follows: Lecture 1 (Weds 8 Jan); Lecture 2 (Weds 15 Jan); Lecture 3 (Weds 22 Jan); Lecture 4 (Weds 29 Jan); Lecture 5 (Weds 5 Feb); Lecture 6 (Weds 12 Feb); Lecture 7 (Weds 19 Feb); Lecture 8 (Weds 26 Feb); Lecture 9 (Weds 5 March); Lecture 10 (Weds 12 March); Lecture 11 (Weds 19 March); Lecture 12 (Weds 26 March). The Diploma Part 2 Exam will take place on Thursday 24 April (daytime).

Note: Students who enter straight onto this course without having already passed the Part 1 examination should be aware that they will need to sit for this exam as well as the Part 2 exam before they can be awarded the STA Diploma.

To take the course you must be a member of the STA. The cost for 12 months membership for an Associate Member is £85.00.

Candidates, having successfully passed both examinations, will be awarded the STA Diploma in Technical Analysis and become Full Members of the STA. The STA Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification, which is equivalent to the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ (IFTA) CFTe II accreditation. The IFTA CFTe II certificate can also be obtained on payment of relevant dues.

Diploma Part 1 examination dates are in March, July and December and Diploma Part 2 examinations in September and April of each year. Candidates sit the exam(s) in their own personal space, using Zoom invigilation.

The 2025 course costs £2,199 if booked by 31 December 2024 (early bird); £3,199 thereafter.

Traders, brokers, dealers, fund managers, portfolio managers, market analysts, other investment professionals, private investors, academics and students.

The aim of the STA Diploma Part 2 Course and examination is to confirm that a candidate possesses the professional knowledge, understanding and skills to pursue a career in technical analysis within the investment community. In particular, at the end of their training period qualified technicians are expected to have a good understanding of, and practical experience in, the major techniques taught on the course, together with a wide range of timing and analytical tools and indicators to enable them to select the most advantageous portfolios, trades, hedges etc. for their clients, their employers or their own trading systems. The syllabus is therefore designed primarily to ensure that students will gain the necessary skills to pursue their careers to a more advanced level in a professional manner, and also to provide investors with the knowledge and confidence in technical analysis that will enable them to make better informed trading decisions.

In order to gain the MSTA designation (Member of the Society of Technical Analysts) students will need to pass the STA Diploma Part 1 and Part 2 examinations and be a current member of the STA. The STA Diploma Part 1 Examination is a two hour, 120 question, multiple choice examination and the STA Diploma Part 2 Examination is a three hour written examination.

Week 1:
Refresher and advanced applied support, resistance, three time frames Fibonacci projections, fans, extensions etc.

Week 2:
Ichimoku Kinko Hyo and Gann Analysis.

Week 3:
Advanced Candlestick Charts (including hidden gaps). Advanced moving averages – adaptive, centred, Bollinger Bands. Trading exercises.

Week 4:
Dow Theory & Market Breadth.

Week 5:
Advanced: applied momentum indicators and oscillators.

Week 6:
Applied Elliott Wave Principle and Fibonacci (in depth).

Week 7:
Market Profile™ put into practice.

Week 8:
Point and figure charts, advanced.

Week 9:
Behavioural Finance.

Week 10:
Trading systems, risk and position sizing.

Week 11:
Putting it all together: a professional’s approach to technical analysis and how to invest in equities, plus trading exercises.

Week 12:
Exam preparation session.

“I thought it was excellent overall and really happy with how much I have learned and actually been able to apply in real life effectively.”
Liam Horne, TP ICAP, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2022

“The course has broadened my horizons about technical analysis and inspired me to learn more.”
Yulia Zhizhaeva, Smartest Energy, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2022

“The course is the gold standard “undergraduate” for any aspiring technical trader or analyst, taught through a legitimate institution of industry professionals.”
Kheval Dhokia, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2021

“High level of lecturers who makes the experience extremely qualitative.”
Maxime Lelong, EDF Trading, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2021

“Good course with good applicable content to real market situations.”
Drew Beasley, Redburn, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2020

“An excellent course that has been very well put together. It is comprehensive and covers a good breadth of pertinent subject matter. The course is good value for money.”
Mayen Egbe, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2020

“What a fantastic experience. It cleared my concepts and surely gave me more confidence to trade. Very helpful and dedicated teachers who patiently answered and cleared any of our doubts no matter how relevant or silly it might be. If one is serious about trading the markets, then this will surely hone your skills. Thank you for everything”
Bublee Goswami, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2019

“Very professionally run. A very good follow on from Part 1 as everything remained relevant and built upon the Part 1 content.”
Jordan Tregellis, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“I found the course to be invaluable, providing tools, techniques and strategies in Technical Analysis that I am now able to apply as a private investor.”
Andrew Duck, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“I found the course very informative. All the classes were interesting and I felt had good content.”
Paul Riddle, INTL FCStone, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“Good balance of theory and practice with very useful insights from market practitioners.”
Jun Anthony Garcia, Credit Suisse, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“Learnt ever so much. Would recommend this course to anyone, even if they are not in the financial industry as yet. Gives a great and detailed insight in to the world of technical analysis.”
Colin Jones, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2017

“The course has been the perfect balance of content. I feel I have solidified my knowledge on the general topics but it also exposed me to a vast array of not so general topics.”
Matt Craig, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2017

“Rewarding and worthwhile experience that gives you exposure to a range of experts in their field explaining their indicators and how they might best be used.”
Marco Meola, UBS, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

“Generally a very good learning experience for me, after 13 years in futures trading I still came away from every lecture having learnt something new. Would thoroughly recommend it to any professional in the financial industry.”
Richard Lewis, Tradition, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

“Fantastic course, great speakers.”
Pavandeep Punny, Triland, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

STA Diploma Part 1 & 2 Online Course Package

STA Diploma Part 1 & 2 Online Course Package

This annual nineteen week, CISI accredited, online course teaches the basics of technical analysis in Part 1 of the course and then provides in-depth knowledge and practical application of the theories in Part 2 of the STA Diploma Course. It is taught by market professionals, authors and Fellows of the STA and also prepares students for the STA Diploma Part 1 and 2 examinations. These are internationally recognised qualifications, which are equivalent to the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ (IFTA) CFTe I and CFTe II accreditation.

The course takes place from October to April each year. Lectures are held once a week, and are followed by the Part 1 examination in early December and the Part 2 examination in April. Both courses will be held online via Zoom.

This combined package offers a very significant saving as it includes all nineteen evening lectures (inc exam preparation sessions) as well as the Diploma Part 1 & 2 examinations. To take the course you must be a member of the STA. The cost for 12 months membership for an Associate Member is £85.00.

The 2024-5 Diploma Part 1 & 2 Course Package costs £3,299 if booked by 31 December 2024 (early bird); £4,299 thereafter. Booking will open in May 2024. If you have any queries between now and then please email info@technicalanalysts.com

Traders, brokers, dealers, fund managers, portfolio managers, market analysts, other investment professionals, private investors, academics and students.

This 19 week course prepares students for the STA Diploma Part 1 & 2 examinations which are internationally recognised qualifications accredited by the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA). The course objective is to give participants a thorough grounding in the core aspects of technical analysis before progressing to develop in-depth understanding and mastering practical application.

It is to confirm that a candidate possesses the professional knowledge, understanding and skills to pursue a career in technical analysis within the investment community. In particular, at the end of their training period qualified technicians are expected to have a good understanding of, and practical experience in, the major techniques taught on the course, together with a wide range of timing and analytical tools and indicators to enable them to select the most advantageous portfolios, trades, hedges etc. for their clients, their employers or their own trading systems.

The syllabus is therefore designed primarily to ensure that students will gain the necessary skills to pursue their careers to a more advanced level in a professional manner, and also to provide investors with the knowledge and confidence in technical analysis that will enable them to make better informed trading or investment decisions.

In order to gain the MSTA designation (Member of the Society of Technical Analysts) students will need to pass the STA Diploma Part 1 and Part 2 examinations and be a current member of the STA. The STA Diploma Part 1 Examination is a two hour, 120 question, multiple choice examination and the STA Diploma Part 2 Examination is a three hour paper based exam.

This nineteen week course prepares students for the STA Diploma Part 1 & 2 examinations which are internationally recognised qualifications accredited by the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA). The course objective is to give participants a thorough grounding in the core aspects of technical analysis before progressing to develop in-depth understanding and mastering practical application.

It is to confirm that a candidate possesses the professional knowledge, understanding and skills to pursue a career in technical analysis within the investment community. In particular, at the end of their training period qualified technicians are expected to have a good understanding of, and practical experience in, the major techniques taught on the course, together with a wide range of timing and analytical tools and indicators to enable them to select the most advantageous portfolios, trades, hedges etc. for their clients, their employers or their own trading systems.

The syllabus is therefore designed primarily to ensure that students will gain the necessary skills to pursue their careers to a more advanced level in a professional manner, and also to provide investors with the knowledge and confidence in technical analysis that will enable them to make better informed trading or investment decisions.

In order to gain the MSTA designation (Member of the Society of Technical Analysts) students will need to pass the STA Diploma Part 1 and Part 2 examinations and be a current member of the STA. The STA Diploma Part 1 Examination is a two hour, 120 question, multiple choice examination and the STA Diploma Part 2 Examination is a three hour paper based exam.

 

“I found the course to be invaluable, providing tools, techniques and strategies in Technical Analysis that I am now able to apply as a private investor.”
Andrew Duck, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“I found the course very informative. All the classes were interesting and I felt had good content.”
Paul Riddle, INTL FCStone, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“Good balance of theory and practice with very useful insights from market practitioners.”
Jun Anthony Garcia, Credit Suisse, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2018

“Learnt ever so much. Would recommend this course to anyone, even if they are not in the financial industry as yet. Gives a great and detailed insight in to the world of technical analysis.”
Colin Jones, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2017

“The course has been the perfect balance of content. I feel I have solidified my knowledge on the general topics but it also exposed me to a vast array of not so general topics.”
Matt Craig, student on the Diploma Part 2 Course 2017

“Rewarding and worthwhile experience that gives you exposure to a range of experts in their field explaining their indicators and how they might best be used.”
Marco Meola, UBS, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

“Generally a very good learning experience for me, after 13 years in futures trading I still came away from every lecture having learnt something new. Would thoroughly recommend it to any professional in the financial industry.”
Richard Lewis, Tradition, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

“Fantastic course, great speakers.”
Pavandeep Punny, Triland, student on Diploma Part 2 Course 2016

Technicals to Trading Systems Course

Technicals to Trading Systems Course

Designing and implementing trading systems

Following the success of the annual STA ‘Technicals to Trading Systems’ conferences delivered over the past 2 years, a need has emerged for a practical learning programme that integrates technical analysis disciplines within the development of systemised/automated trading.

This online course a standalone programme or further development goal for full members of the STA (MSTA), equivalent qualification holders or market professionals with at least three years technical analysis, quantitative or trading experience.

Delegates will learn about the tools and techniques required to build, optimise, and run trading systems. The course will provide guidance on how to apply technical analysis to facilitate discretionary and automated trading systems.

The programme identifies and explores how technical analysis can form the basis for constructing trading systems. It covers basic principles of discretionary trading using technical analysis and delves into what is required to create evidence-based trading systems.

Areas covered include examining technical concepts that have worked in the past and can provide an edge; taking technical concepts and evolving these into a trading system; identifying and evaluating the components parts of a trading system; understanding the philosophy and functionality of back testing, including being able to determine back testing results, and avoiding common back testing pitfalls.

Delivered online via Zoom, this course runs for twelve two-hour sessions, 6pm-8pm UK time on the following dates in 2025:

Week 1 – Wednesday 2 April
Week 2 – Wednesday 9 April
Week 3 – Wednesday 16 April
Week 4– Wednesday 30 April
Week 5 – Wednesday 7 May
Week 6 – Wednesday 14 May
Week 7 – Wednesday 21 May
Week 8 – Wednesday 28 May
Week 9 – Wednesday 4 June
Week 10 – Wednesday 11 June
Week 11 – Wednesday 18 June
Week 12 – Wednesday 25 June

Delegates will have the opportunity to take an examination on Wednesday 9 July (morning) to be awarded the Society of Technical Analysts ‘Certificate in Technicals to Trading Systems.’

If you miss a session, you can catch up by watching the recorded video.

To participate you must be a member of the STA. The cost for 12 months membership for an Associate Member is £85.

Special Introductory Price: £1,995 if booked by 31 January 2025; Thereafter, the early bird rate is £2,199 (full price £3,199).

Booking to open soon. Email info@technicalanalysts.com for any queries.

Aimed at: active and experienced traders with at least three years’ experience using technical analysis and wanting to develop a structured approach to their trading and/or upgrade their approach with trading strategies.

Attendees’ role:
Experienced traders (3+ years) who wish to upgrade their technical analysis skills with systematic and automated trading strategies.
Financial analysts
Software engineers
Quantitative analysts
Data scientists interested in trading

Working in:
Fund management
Trading and hedging institutions
Commodities
Research firms
Crypto currency markets
Foreign exchange
Fixed income
Equities
CFDs
Spread betting

Malcolm Pryor (Course leader) has been a private trader and investor for over two decades. He is a graduate of Van Tharp’s “Super Trader” programme, and the author of several books on trading. He is a lecturer and examiner for the STA Diploma Course, a contributor to the STA Home Study Course, and a lecturer for the STA course “Technicals to Trading Systems.” Representing England, he had success in international bridge events, including winning a Silver Medal in the 2019 World Championships.
Jeff Boccaccio has over 20 years of experience in the financial sector having worked for Deloitte Consulting, UBS and Barclays Capital across the US, Switzerland and London. He has a broad range of skills combining a strong background in information technology with financial market analysis and trading. By leveraging his IT background, he cultivated a lifelong interest in financial markets and transitioned to full time trading and investing his personal funds. Technical analysis was a natural fit and he used this as a foundation for his trading after gaining the MSTA diploma. After building a suite of automated trading systems and customised trading and analysis apps for their own use, Jeff and his partner founded Rfactory Ltd where they offer proprietary tools to other traders and funds along with consulting services.

Tom Hicks is the co-founder of IFTM Capital, a systematic trading firm specialising in technical analysis. With over 20 years of experience in the financial industry, Tom has held prominent roles as a Fixed Income and Options Trader, as well as an ex-Big Four Consultant. His extensive career spans working with top-tier banks and asset managers, where he developed expertise in trading and regulatory frameworks. Tom also served as Chair of the Society of Technical Analysts for three years and was a board member of the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA). As a respected authority in the field, he has lectured on systematic trading and psychology of the STA Diploma Level 2 course.

Stephen Hoad is an algorithmic, quantitative, technical analyst trader. He has over 25 years global financial markets experience as a PM, proprietary trader, options trader, quantitative analyst and senior risk manager. Now the CIO of his own fund – IGOE Financial Ltd and CEO of THE STOP HUNTER Ltd, offering trading education and consultancy services. He has previously held senior roles at Koch Industries, Merrill Lynch, WestLB and Mitsubishi UFJ Securities.

Thiru Nagappan is a trader, entrepreneur, speaker and the founder of Master the Markets. (MTM). His working life began as a cardiovascular pharmacologist and through an interesting turn of events, left his PhD and pursued financial trading. He worked on a trading floor, presented live trading seminars and traded company accounts. In 2010 he setup Master the Markets (MTM). He and his team at MTM, have networked with traders like John Bollinger, Jim Rogers, Mark Brown and many more. They have coached over 20,000 people from around the world, consulted on trading floors, traded company accounts and presented live trading events and workshops. Thiru integrates spirituality in business, teaching and his everyday life, and follows the philosophy of ‘Master the Mind, Master Trading and Life’.

By the end of the programme, delegates will have the insights to help build and run discretionary and automated trading systems.

The online course identifies and explores how technical analysis can form the basis for constructing trading systems. It covers basic principles of discretionary trading using technical analysis and delves into what is required to create evidence-based trading systems.

Areas covered:

• Finding technical concepts that have worked in the past and can provide an edge
• Taking a technical concept and turning it into a trading system
• Component parts of a trading system
• How to evaluate a trading system and all its component parts
• Risk management and position sizing
• Purpose and philosophy of back testing
• How to back test, and how to evaluate back testing results
• Robustness
• Optimisation
• How to avoid common back testing pitfalls
• Further testing (out of sample, forward testing)
• Back testing program functionality
• Post implementation system management
• Degrees of automation of a trading systems’ components
• Building and running a discretionary trading system
• Building and running an automated trading system

 

'High Performance Trader' Learning Programme

'High Performance Trader' Learning Programme

Take your trading to the next level

Exploring behaviour and enhancing risk-taking resilience for successful market trading, AlphaMind has designed and developed a powerful, unique ten-session programme on elevating trading performance by examining the trading mindset when focussing on risk taking and risk management. This learning programme guides traders through the entire lifecycle of trading—starting with the analysis process essential for idea formulation and understanding market narratives and progressing to the critical elements of risk-taking and risk management. Here, traders will learn how to monetise their analysis and ideas effectively through a structured yet dynamic risk process.

Following the successful and popular behavioural finance sessions delivered at both the STA Diplomas and the STA annual conferences, the STA is delighted to announce the addition of a new learning programme to its suite of courses that will help trading professionals understand trading dynamics and risk management by evaluating their decisions and motivations, whilst developing a high-performance trading mindset.

Designed and presented by Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall of AlphaMind, this is an essential learning programme for anyone who wishes to confidently navigate market trends and performance.

Delivered online via Zoom, the programme runs for ten two-hour sessions, 6pm-8pm UK time on the following dates in 2025:

Week 1 – Monday 3 March
Week 2 – Monday 10 March
Week 3 – Monday 17 March
Week 4 – Monday 24 March
Week 5 – Monday 31 March
Week 6 – Monday 7 April
Break for Easter
Week 7 – Monday 28 April
Week 8 – Monday 12 May
Week 9 – Monday 19 May
Week 10 – Monday 2 June

If you miss a session, you can catch up by watching the recorded video. However, please note that breakout sessions will not be recorded. The videos will be available for the duration of the course.

This is a learning programme, so there will be no examinations; however, Certificates of Attendance will be distributed upon completion and can be used for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points within organisations.

Enrolment is limited to 25 participants. To participate you must be a member of the STA. The cost for 12 months membership for an Associate Member is £85.

Price: £1,750 if booked by 31 December 2024; £1,850 thereafter.

Email info@technicalanalysts.com for any queries.

– Sell-side traders in investment banks, as well as those in commodity and energy trading firms
– Buy-side traders in hedge funds, asset management firms, and proprietary trading firms
– Both experienced and emerging retail and private traders
– Business managers and key personnel interested in enhancing their understanding of the performance aspects of trading and risk management

This programme is open to individuals across all markets, including traditional finance and the cryptocurrency trading landscape.

The programme is jointly developed and delivered by Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall of AlphaMind.

Steven Goldstein is a leading performance and executive coach renowned for working with some of the world’s top traders. With a key focus on high performers in trading and investment activities, he brings over 25 years of frontline experience in major investment banking. Steven is also the author of “Mastering the Mental Game of Trading 2024,” published by Harriman House, and he delivers the Behavioural Finance components of the STA Diploma programme. His expertise helps traders enhance their performance and decision-making in the fast-paced financial markets.

 

Mark Randall is a distinguished expert in mentoring, training, and coaching individuals in trading, investment, leadership, and sales roles, making him the ideal guide for those considering a high-performance trading learning programme. With a career in markets spanning over 40 years, Mark began as a pit trader in futures and options at LIFFE in 1982 before transitioning into senior broking and marketing roles at some of the world’s most significant investment banks. He has since devoted himself to mentoring and developing top-tier professionals in trading and investment roles.

Session 1: Introduction ‘Let’s start with the end in mind’
Session 2: Markets, The Inner Game, and The Performance Process Cycle
Session 3: The Two Trading Approaches
Session 4: You, Your Playbook, and the 3 P’s of High Performance
Session 5: The Performance Process Cycle Part 1 – Being
Session 6: The Performance Process Cycle Part 2 – Production
Session 7: The Performance Process Cycle Part 3 – Performance
Session 8: Full Contact: Enhancing Risk Mastery in the Performance Phase
Session 9: The Performance Process Cycle Part 4– Letting Go
Session 10: The Fertile Void – Resetting and Returning to Being

For full session details please click here.

To see outcomes by session, please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The STA Diploma Part 1 and 2 courses are lecture based and fully interactive. Each week the students log in to Zoom for a live lecture where they have the ability to ask the tutor questions. If they miss a lecture then they can catch up with a recording post event. Access to lecture recordings is made available to students for the duration of the course.

The Home Study Course is like an ebook, ie. not video based. Students can start the Home Study Course at any point and take as long as they like to prepare for the examinations rather than following a strict schedule.

The success rate of both methods of learning is very similar so the decision as to which route you choose to prepare for the Diploma qualification depends on your preferred method and lifestyle.

We run each course once in the year. The Diploma Part 1 course starts mid October and the Diploma Part 2 course starts in January.

The Diploma Part 1 course runs for seven weeks, one evening a week (usually a Wednesday) from 6.00pm-8.00pm. It ends with the Diploma Part 1 examination in early December. The Diploma Part 2 course runs for 12 weeks, one evening a week (again usually a Wednesday) from 6.30pm-8.00pm. It ends with the Diploma Part 2 examination in April.

The Diploma Part 1 and 2 courses are held online via live Zoom webinar and therefore you can watch from whereever in the world. We record the lectures so students can catch up in their own time if unable to watch live. Students retain access to these recordings for the duration of the course.

The STA runs occasional one-day courses on technical analysis. For more information on this please email info@technicalanalysts.com

If you are interested in corporate, tailor-made courses introducing your staff to technical analysis, please email the STA office on info@technicalanalysts.com

You can start the STA Home Study Course (HSC) at any point. Like an e-book (ie. not videos), students can start reading the different modules and go at their own pace rather than wait for the annual lecture based online courses.

Although website based, it is fully downloadable and may be used online or offline by PC, Mac, iPad or Android machines. The program is divided into 15 units designed to cover all relevant aspects of the Diploma Part 1 and Diploma Part 2 syllabus. Each unit carries a series of multiple choice questions to test the student’s understanding of each topic. In addition the course offers an exam preparation module and a set of past Part 2 exam papers, as well as a supplement containing advice on tehcnical analysis report writing.

For information on the units and their authors please visit the Home Study Course page.

The Diploma Part 1 exams are held three times a year in March, July, and December. The Diploma Part 2 exam is held twice a year in April and October.

Registration closes 1 month before the exam date.

There is no need to have passed the Part 1 exam before sitting the Part 2 exam. Both can be sat while attending the STA Diploma Part 2 Course. In order to obtain the STA Diploma qualification both the Part 1 and 2 exams will have to have been passed, however.

It obviously depends on the cohort, but on average 70% of students sitting the exams pass.

67%. Those achieving 85% or above are awarded a Merit.

60%. Those achieving 85% or above are awarded a Distinction.

In general, at this advanced level examiners look not only for knowledge but also for the application of that knowledge – for reasoning, for conclusions, and for advice to investors when required.

The answer to SECTION 1 (Question 1) should show a high standard in chart analysis and a written report (as if for a client) based on that analysis. There is some flexibility here: candidates wishing to avoid writing large amounts of text may consider using summary bullet points within the written report. They may also express some of their opinions on the actual charts, alongside their other chart annotations.

Chart annotations combined with a written report meeting all requirements of the question can earn up to 50 points. Up to another 10 points can be gained for a clear and professional structure to the report.*

For the SECTION 2 and SECTION 3 answers candidates can gain up to half their marks by demonstrating knowledge. An ability to reason and apply/interpret is needed to achieve higher marks, however.

*To pass the exam, a minimum mark of 35/60 for the compulsory Question 1 is required as well as 60/100 for the paper overall.

Examiners will send you a report on areas of weakness and, where possible, suggestions on how your answers could be improved. As with Part 1, you need to re-register to resit the exam.

An appeal is possible if there were practical difficulties during an exam, such as internet connection issues. An appeal for purely academic reasons, for either Part 1 or Part 2, is not possible. The Part 1 examination is machine graded, and the Part 2 examination papers are marked and double-checked by a panel of highly experienced professionals.

The CFTe is the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ (IFTA) two-stage qualification. CFTe Level I is a multiple choice paper which is very similar to the STA Diploma Part 1 examination. CFTe Level II is an essay based question paper, similar to the STA Diploma Part 2 exam, but half an hour longer. Both IFTA’s CFTe I and II papers were for several decades set and marked by the STA but over the past few years IFTA have set and marked their own exams.

On achieving MSTA status, students can also receive the International Federation of Technical Analysts’ CFTe accreditation and certificate on payment of an administration fee of $200.

Once you have successfully passed both examinations you will be awarded the STA Diploma in Technical Analysis and the right to use the designation MSTA (Member of the Society of Technical Analysts), regarded as the kite mark in technical analysis. This qualification also allows you to obtain the International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA) CFTe certification and entitles you to certain exemptions from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) examinations. Full MSTAs with 3+ year’s industry experience are invited to become full members (MCSI).

 

We recommend that students spend a minimum of three to six hours per unit in the HSC or per STA Diploma Part 1 or 2 lecture, and take time to read the recommended reading lists for both Part 1 and 2 examinations.

Achieving MSTA status is no guarantee of a job as the individual’s CV and previous work experience are also a factor. However, the STA Diploma qualification is a valuable asset to any individual’s portfolio and an essential tool in risk analysis of the financial markets.

The courses are designed for professional and private investors. Sample job titles include technical analyst, research analyst, commodities analyst, market analyst, FX trader, LPG trader, crude oil operator, dealing officer, sales trader, portfolio manager, fund manager and hedge fund manager.

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