Insurance Education and Training Key Terms

Get what you need by understanding common insurance education terms

By Sandy Baker

Insurance education and training is available through various online and local programs. There are many designations available in these programs ranging from commercial to personal insurance products. Broker/agent licenses are often required by many insurance agencies. State mandated courses and exams allow agents to obtain licenses to sell and advise individuals on insurance products. Some common areas include risk management degrees and an Associate in Claims. Continuing education certifications can further advance an individual's insurance education.

Risk management

A risk management education allows insurance professionals to make key evaluations for an organization's business losses and potential accidents. Individuals may earn an Associate in Risk Management (ARM) degree, which covers risk assessment, control and financing.
Try: The Insurance Educational Association provides more details on this type of insurance education.

Broker/agent licenses

Broker/agent licenses are available for those who wish to sell insurance products to consumers. Licenses are required in all states and in the District of Columbia for those selling any form of insurance.
Try: The New York State Insurance Department outlines the state's requirements for applying for a broker/agent license.

Accredited Advisor in Insurance Program (AAI)

The Accredited Advisor in Insurance Program is an upper level certification given to those insurance professionals who complete three courses and achieve high scores on a licensing exam. The program is a continuing education credit for insurance agents that are already licensed.
Try: The Agent/Broker Training Center offers a complete overview of the certification process

Associate in Claims (AIC)

The Associate in Claims certification enables insurance professionals to handle a more extensive range of insurance claims, including property, workers' compensation, bodily injury and automobile claims. Many insurance companies require an Associate in Claims certification, which is obtained through a claims training program.
Try: The American Institute for CPCU outlines the program details including education required to obtain an Associate in Claims certification.

Associate in Personal Insurance (API)

The Associate in Personal Insurance designation is given to those who have completed upper level examinations. It is an ideal course for customer service representatives, adjusters, underwriters and producers in the insurance business dealing with personal lines of insurance.
Try: The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York outlines the requirements for this certification.

Associate in Insurance Services Program (AIS)

The Associate in Insurance Services program, or AIS, is provided by the American Institute for CPCU and Insurance Institute of America. This program teaches leadership, organizational structure, delivering effective insurance services and process management.
Try: The Black Bear Insurance Agency outlines the details of the AIS program.