Understanding The Nature Of Insurance Education

By Ed Hulse


Most people never think about the insurance education that is required for agents to begin providing policy coverage. Neither do they consider the continuing educational efforts that must be made to maintain licenses over time. For people who are thinking about getting into the industry, however, it is absolutely essential that these details be fully understood.

Basic course of study

Despite the fact that there is no legal standard for college degrees for these brokers to meet, that does not mean that there are no standards at all. The industry has managed to set a reasonable bar that candidates must meet. As part of that threshold, all brokers must obtain a minimum two-year degree at a college. Beyond that, most companies have additional requirements in place for their own employees.

To become a licensed agent, there is a variety of coursework that must be completed. This course of study can vary depending upon the institution, but generally includes a variety of classes related to finance and business management. Business and tax law, investment planning, math, and business administration are commonly required.

In most instances, it is also necessary to pursue a variety of communication and presentation courses, as well as accounting. The industry is a complicated one, and all of these areas of study help to prepare prospective brokers for their future careers. And, as one might expect, the diversity of study enables students to prepare for and seek careers beyond brokering as well.

Beyond brokering

Many people who pursue this educational path ultimately end up in jobs outside of traditional brokering. The brokering license can form the foundation for a career as a stock broker, or as an underwriter. Other career paths can lead licensed brokers to careers as actuaries or as retirement planners. The bottom line is obvious: a brokering license can be the key to a wide variety of career doorways.

Maintaining the license

Enthusiastic candidates should always remember that there are educational requirements that g beyond the initial licensing process. Brokers must participate in formal continuing education courses on a regular basis to ensure that they remain knowledgeable about important trends in their chosen industries. Anyone seeking such a license should be prepared for this professional requirement.

It would be a mistake for anyone to think that a good broker is born with his or her skills. Regardless of the specific career path, the professions chosen always entail a great deal of technical study, as well as continual efforts to keep pace with new changes and developments. Those who choose to get their brokering licenses are well advised to make themselves aware of these insurance education requirements when choosing their career paths.



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