Curriculum-Integrated Financial Literacy and Students' Financial Outcomes: The Moderating Role of Institutional Support

This conceptual paper develops a theoretical framework linking curriculum-integrated financial literacy to students' financial outcomes, namely financial behaviour and financial capability, while examining the moderating role of institutional support. Financial literacy is increasingly recognised as an essential competency for higher education students as they prepare to manage personal finances, debt, savings, and long-term financial decisions in a complex economic environment. However, many financial education initiatives remain fragmented and are delivered through standalone workshops or short-term programmes, limiting their potential to produce sustained behavioural change. Drawing on Human Capital Theory, Social Learning Theory, and Behavioural Finance Theory, this paper proposes that integrating financial literacy into the core curriculum provides students with continuous, structured, and contextually relevant financial learning experiences that enhance responsible financial behaviour and strengthen financial capability. The framework further suggests that institutional support, through mechanisms such as financial advisory services, mentoring, educational resources, and supportive learning environments, strengthens the effectiveness of curriculum-integrated financial literacy in shaping students’ financial outcomes. The conceptual model is discussed within the context of maritime higher education, where graduates often transition from structured educational environments into careers that require effective financial decision-making and long-term financial planning. By shifting attention from standalone financial education initiatives to a curriculum-based approach, this paper contributes to the financial literacy literature and highlights the importance of institutional context in fostering positive financial outcomes among students. The proposed framework offers practical insights for higher education institutions, curriculum developers, policymakers, and maritime education providers seeking to enhance students’ financial readiness and long-term financial well-being.