Colleges Hear Call, Add Insurance-Specific Curricula

Given the volume of press recently regarding the eventual retirement of the boomer workforce, and the dire need to replace the exiting workers with members of the younger generation, it appears a few colleges have taken heed of these reports and taken steps to meet the growing demand.  

Both Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia and Olivet College, Olivet, Mich., announced that they have revisited their curricula to create new academic majors and minors that cater to the insurance industry.

Saint Joseph's has undergone a significant shift within its Haub School of Business (HSB) by breaking up its department of finance into three majors: general finance, financial planning, and risk management and insurance.

Nearly 20% of HSB graduates gained employment in the risk management and insurance field in 2009, according to the university. Established three years ago as a track within the Department of Finance, Saint Joseph's says the program has achieved rapid growth. Receiving significant support from insurance executives comprising Saint Joseph’s Risk Management and Insurance Board, the program doles out $75,000 in scholarships each year.

“This risk management and insurance program was designed in accordance with the business school’s unique approach to ethical engagement, academic excellence and industry-focused programs,” HSB Dean Joseph DiAngelo Jr. DiAngelo said in a release. “Students will receive the skill sets necessary for successful careers in this growing field.”

Additionally, Saint Joseph's says it is one of 21 schools globally with a Global Association of Risk Professionals collegiate chapter, and will again host “The Energy School,” which attracts insurance executives nationwide for training on how to adapt to the challenges of protecting our nation’s energy companies from shattering losses.

Following in Saint Joseph's footsteps, Olivet recently announced its decision to eliminate several outdated programs and replace them with an actuarial science major, computer science major and minor, informational technology management major and insurance claims investigation minor, among others. The college also will offer a Master of Business Administration in Insurance online degree program.