Saturday, 3 September 2011

Understanding The Nature Of Insurance Education

By Ed Hulse


Insurance education requirements are not always fully understood by people interested in purchasing various types of policies. Moreover, few people ever stop to think about the amount of time the agents selling these policies spend pursuing the regular coursework necessary for licensing. Anyone who is considering a career as a broker, however, must take the time to consider these educational needs.

Basic course of study

It is important to understand that there is no legal requirement to obtain a college degree before obtaining a job as a brokering agent. However, the industry has its own standards and they currently require licensing and that includes at least a two-year Associates degree. In addition, many firms have additional requirements for agents that they employ.

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

Among the jobs that become available with this course of study and a brokering license are specialized careers in various areas of finance and securities. Many people who obtain their brokering license move on to become licensed stock brokers, while others seek employment in the actuarial and underwriting fields. Still others focus on retirement planning, which is an area where experts are always in high demand.

Keeping it current

As a professional career, brokers also have certain industry standards that must be met if they are to maintain their licensing over time. Continuing educational courses are a major part of that process. These courses ensure that every broker is kept up to date with changes in the industry and in the legal regulations that govern its activities.

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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