Mercy College

What you'll study

The programme covers the fundamentals of risk management together with a broad survey of insurance products, markets and operational practices. Core topics typically include principles of risk management, property and casualty insurance, life and health insurance, underwriting, claims management and insurance law. Students also study finance-related subjects such as corporate finance, investments and accounting to understand how risk and capital interact.

• Risk Theory & Techniques – identification, analysis and treatment of risk; risk control and financing methods.
• Insurance Principles – structure of insurance markets; policy types; policy design and interpretation.
• Underwriting & Claims – underwriting decision processes, pricing basics, claims investigation and adjustment.
• Property & Casualty; Life & Health – detailed study of personal and commercial lines, plus life, health and employee benefits.
• Insurance Law & Regulation – legal environment for insurers, contract law, regulatory framework and compliance.
• Quantitative & Analytical Skills – statistics, basics of actuarial methods, risk modelling and use of spreadsheet/analytical tools.
• Finance & Investments – investment principles relevant to insurance firms and corporate risk financing.
• Professional Development – internships, case studies, a capstone project or practicum that applies classroom learning to workplace problems.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally based on a completed secondary school qualification (or recognised equivalent) with academic performance demonstrating readiness for university study. Applicants are expected to submit official transcripts and may be asked for a personal statement and references. Standardised test scores (such as SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on the campus admissions policy. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior education in English if required.

Relevant work experience is not required but can strengthen an application. Mature applicants with professional experience may be considered through alternative admission routes.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across the insurance industry and corporate risk functions. Typical early-career positions include:

• Underwriting assistant or junior underwriter
• Claims adjuster or claims analyst
• Risk analyst or risk control specialist in corporate settings
• Insurance broker or sales representative
• Compliance and regulatory support roles within insurers or financial services firms

With experience, alumni progress to senior underwriting, claims management, risk management, reinsurance, product development, or leadership roles. The degree also provides a foundation for professional qualifications and postgraduate study in risk, insurance or related business fields.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a career-focused programme with small class sizes and faculty who bring practical industry experience into the classroom. The college’s location provides access to a large regional insurance market and employer network, facilitating internships and workplace learning that help bridge study and employment. Students benefit from dedicated career services, alumni connections in the insurance sector and applied learning opportunities such as capstone projects and employer-led casework that prepare graduates for immediate entry into the profession.