Business - Insurance (Co-op)

College: CONS Program: 0722C Campus: DO Academic Year: 2012 / 2013

About the Program

The two year Business-Insurance Co-op program prepares the student for a rewarding career in many areas of the insurance industry. The program provides students with a broad exposure to business with a specialization in general insurance and is designed for graduates who wish to be employed by the insurance industry in the areas of agency, claims, underwriting, marketing, and management. The Business Insurance Co-op program includes studies of all areas of property and casualty coverage. Students will have the opportunity to gain nine of the ten credits required for the Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation from the Insurance Institute of Canada and may choose to register for the CIP national exams at an additional cost in order to receive credentials awarded by the Institute. The Institute examination for INS1000 Insurance Fundamentals is a program requirement.
.

Program Facts

Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma program
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 40
Tuition: Please refer to Fees Chart for more detail
*Fees are higher for international students on a Student Visa.
*Recreation/Athletics, Graduation/Alumni, Insurance, as well as program-related costs such as books and supplies are additional.

Co-op Information

To ensure successful completion of the program, it may be necessary to relocate or commute during co-op work terms
To be eligible to participate in any co-op work term, students must maintain the required academic standards for their program (see Co-op program page on college website for details)
The college cannot guarantee co-op employment. All co-op students are required to conduct an independent co-op job search in addition to the supports and services provided by the Co-op Office
Co-op & Career Services maintains comprehensive Co-op Policies & Procedures to which all co-op students must adhere (see Co-op program page on college website for details)

Admission Requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or 19 years of age or older with mature student status. (See Mature Student Definition for details.)
Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270),
Grade 11 Mathematics, C, M(U/C), or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Mathematics (MATH1375).
For more information on preparatory programs, visit Academic Upgrading

Note:

English and/or mathematics testing may be required.

Admission Procedures

An academic strength is calculated by averaging the submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C course used in the calculation of academic strength.
Twenty (20) additional marks are added to each post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
A sound mathematical and English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.

For program information call the Information Centre for details at 519-748-5220 ext. 3656.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

Adults with significant life and work experience may receive credits toward a college certificate or diploma program through a prior learning assessment process (PLAR). Prior learning must be measurable at the college level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses . PLAR process is not used for admission process. Obtaining credits for courses linked to a specific program does not guarantee entrance into the program. To require guidance on the PLAR process contact the PLAR office at 519-748-5220, ext 2260 or visit: www.conestogac.on.ca/caa/testing/plar.jsp

Course Information

Course #	Courses
Level One
ACCT1030	Introductory Financial Accounting I Description: This course introduces accounting terminology, the accounting equation, the double-entry system of bookkeeping, the accrual basis of accounting, financial statements, and the ledgers and journals making up a basic accounting system. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
CDEV1020	Co-op and Career Preparation Description: This mandatory course prepares students for job searching for their co-op work terms and for post-graduate careers. Students will learn to critically evaluate their skills, attitudes, and expectations and evaluate and interpret available opportunities in the workplace. Self-marketing techniques using resumes, cover letters, cold-calls, and interviewing will be learned and students will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace with regards to social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues. Hours: 16 Credits: 1 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
COMM1500	Introduction to Professional Writing and Presentation Skills Description: Introducing the communication skills necessary for success, this course analyzes cases that reflect real life situations. Students will attain the skills in problem solving and decision making required in professional communications. Emphasis will be placed on producing effective letters and memoranda. The course also helps students develop presentation skills. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
COMP1056	Business Computing Applications I Description: Introducing word processing and spreadsheet applications on a microcomputer, this course will teach: entering text, developing solutions to business problems, describing the processing cycle of a computer and how data is stored, the function and type of storage used in computers, input and output operations and the impact of computers on society. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS1000	Insurance Fundamentals Description: As part of your evaluation, you will be required to become a member of the Insurance Institute of Canada and register for the applicable Insurance Institute National Exam. Additional charges will apply: $80.00 membership fee & $198.00 exam fee (+ HST). Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
MATH1010	Business Mathematics I Description: The purpose of the course is to provide the student with a mathematical basis for personal and business financial decisions through four instructional models. The course stresses business application using arithmetic, algebra, ratio-proportion and graphing. Applications include payroll, cost-volume-profit analysis and merchandising mathematics. This course stresses logical reasoning and problem solving skills. A Texas Instrument BAII 'Plus' calculator is required for the course. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
MKT1040	Marketing I Description: Marketing is about knowing the customers and the creative and strategic processes to meet their needs, wants and desires. This highly interactive course introduces you to the world of marketing from both a societal and organizational perspective. You will participate in a variety of hands-on practical activities and projects to immerse yourself in the fundamentals of marketing. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
Level Two
BUS2010	Business Law Description: Introducing the legal system which governs personal and commercial relationships in Canada, this course provides knowledge of the basic legal concepts in order to gain insight into judicial reasoning. Areas covered range from contract law to real property and protection of creativity. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
BUS2030	Applied Ethics Description: This course will familiarize students with the bases of ethical theory and assist them in the development of a critical process for making ethical decisions. Students will have the opportunity to discuss areas involving ethical controversies that may be encountered in the context of work environments and will learn how to approach issues by applying ethical principles. The student will explore his/her own values, code of ethics, and develop strategies to understand and respect the values and decisions of others. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
COMM1140	Interpersonal Communications Skills Description: This course will help students develop skills needed to interrelate with others in a variety of workplace situations and social settings. With the assistance of self-assessment and feedback instruments, students will be able to build on individual strengths and overcome weakness in their ability to communicate effectively one-on-one and in group settings. Although the course will incorporate relevant communication theories, the focus will be on developing the ability to present oneself effectively in the majority of managerial roles (e.g. managing conflict, instructing, seminar leader, counselor, team member). The course will also focus on managing ones image to maximize career potential. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
ECON1020	Microeconomics Description: This course is a study of how people in society deal with the problem of scarcity. It introduces students to principles that are essential to an understanding of contemporary microeconomic issues facing Canadian society. Economic models are utilized to analyze decisions made by individual economic units in an economy, such as households, firms, the interaction of these units under varying market structures, and the impact of various government policies. Topics of study include: principles of economics, supply and demand theory, consumer theory, production and cost theory, and the determination of equilibrium price and output under different market structures. Course Equivalent: OLRN1650 Introductions to Microeconomics (Internet). Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS1010	Insurance On Property Description: This course focuses on all types of personal and commercial property insurance and sets a foundation for further insurance courses. Beginning with fundamental legal requirements, the course focuses on the principles involved with the Basic Fire Policy, and ultimately into present-day habitational insurance. Study broadens out to cover basic commercial insurance and the forms required for such risks. Completion of the course material will allow a student to challenge the Insurance Institute of Canada’s national exam for Property Insurance (C12). Hours: 36 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
INS1020	Personal Automobile Insurance Description: This course focuses on personal automobile insurance across Canada. Emphasis is placed upon legislation related automobile insurance as well as specific policy wordings, endorsements and regulations. An overall comparison of various provincial programs is studied while a more detailed approach is utilized for the study of individual policies under Ontario automobile insurance. Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
Level Three
COOP1460	Co-op Work Term (Business - Insurance) Description: This course will provide students with work experience in the Property & Casualty insurance industry. The work will be approved and evaluated by the college. This course increases the student's understanding of employer expectations with regards to academic, practical and attitudinal skills. These skill areas will be developed during the work term while the student performs the responsibilities as laid out in the job description in accordance with course and program outcomes. Student development will be evaluated during and the conclusion of the work experience. Hours: 420 Credits: 14 Pre-Requisites: CDEV1020 CoRequisites:
Level Four
ECON1030	Macroeconomics Description: This course is a study of the Canadian economy as a whole. It introduces students to principles that are essential to an understanding of contemporary macroeconomic issues facing Canadian society. It examines the structure and performance of the Canadian economy utilizing economic models and aggregate economic indicators such as gross domestic product, employment, unemployment, income and productivity growth, inflation, interest rates, and the impact of domestic and international influences and of government fiscal and monetary policies. Equivalent: OLRN1600 Introduction to Macroeconomics (Internet). Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS2000	Insurance Against Liability Description: To understand liability insurance, you must first know something of the law and the Canadian legal system and the differences between the common law and the Civil Code of Quebec. This is not a law course but it does introduce you to those legal principles that affect liability insurance. It discusses common ways people become liable to each other and explains how this liability may be insured or why it cannot be insured. Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000, BUS2010 CoRequisites:
INS2010	Essentials of Loss Adjusting Description: The course focuses on insurance knowledge and conduct required of claims professionals. Students examine both the soft skills and technical skills which enhance the handling of insurance claims. Through a step-by-step process, students move from understanding claims situations and evaluation of policy coverage to determining how much of a claim is payable. Managing relationships in order to obtain critical information is discussed and students will also learn the fundamentals of investigation, evaluation, negotiation and settlement within the claims process. The types of claims examined include property, automobile and liability insurance. Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
INS2020	Underwriting Essentials Description: This course focuses on insurance knowledge and conduct required of claims professionals. Students examine both the soft skills and technical skills which enhance the handling of insurance claims. Through a step-by-step process, students move from understanding claims situations and evaluation of policy coverage to determining how much of a claim is payable. Managing relationships in order to obtain critical information is discussed and students will also learn the fundamentals of investigation, evaluation, negotiation and settlement within the claims process. The types of claims examined include property, automobile and liability insurance. Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
LIBS1010	Critical Thinking Skills Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills to make decisions based on carefully focused and deliberately determined ways of thinking. The course will take a balanced approach to learning critical thinking skills and will include theory, analysis and experiential applications. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
MKT2130	Business to Business Selling Description: If you think that selling means ?would you like fries with that??? Then you need this course. In Business to Business Selling you will uncover buyers’ interests, needs and wants. You will match the appropriate features, advantages and benefits and demonstrate professional salesmanship in a variety of buyer/seller role plays. Overcoming buyer concerns and successful closing techniques will be demonstrated. Emphasis is placed on the application of the entire B2B selling process up to and including after sale service. Hours: 60 Credits: 4 Pre-Requisites: MKT1040 CoRequisites:
Level Five
BUS1020	Organizational Behaviour Description: Studying people and organizations, this course examines the behaviour of individuals working alone or in teams. Using actual examples, this course examines how behavioural factors affect organizational effectiveness. Note: This course is an approved HRPAO credit. Equivalent: Introduction to Business Management & Organizational Behaviour. Hours: 45 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS1030	Fraud Awareness and Prevention Description: This course focuses on learning how fraud may arise with respect to insurance policies and what initiatives the insurance industry has advanced to fight such fraudulent practices. The dollar cost of fraud to individuals and the industry is discussed, as well as the laws that affect how insurers must handle claims adjustment and settlement. Property, automobile and liability claims are covered. New business and renewals and the underwriting of each are discussed from the perspective of ?red flags? which may indicated potential fraud at the beginning stages of an insurance contract. Hours: 36 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS2030	Essential Skills for the Insurance Broker and Agent Description: This course is an overview of insurance business practices from the broker/agent’s perspective and concentrates on the needs of both personal lines and small commercial risk clients. Students are given insights into the skills that a typical intermediary uses to perform effectively from initial contact with a client through the evaluation and application process, to binding and policy documents. All major insurance product lines and common policy transactions that a broker/agent may handle are reviewed. Hours: 48 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:
INS2050	Integrated Insurance Applications Description: The course is designed to provide the student with an appreciation of the purpose and meaning to the insurance industry’s existence. It exposes students to the challenges confronting senior management and moves into philosophical issues related to the insurance industry, such as the role of insurance in society and the manner in which business is carried out. Students examine the structure of the industry, the interdependence of its members, the forces which shape the marketplace and the way in which insurance is regulated. Economic issues surrounding insurance and pricing of product & service are also studied. The financial management of insurance companies is discussed and concludes with the importance of ethics and professionalism at all levels of the insurance industry. Hours: 36 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
INS2060	Bodily Injury Claims Description: This course introduces the basics of human anatomy and physiology and how they are important to the insurance adjuster. The investigative process is outlined and the factors involved in claim evaluation and negotiation are considered. Key topics include injuries that are likely to be encountered and the medical treatment normally prescribed, interpretation of medical reports, as well as rehabilitation and the role of the adjuster in the process. Hours: 36 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: INS1000 CoRequisites:
MGMT2110	Introduction to the Risk Management Process Description: The course begins with risk management, in which insurance is only a part of a general approach to managing an insured’s exposure to potential loss, and explores the scope of the risk management process; identifying and analyzing loss exposures, and developing alternative techniques to treat each exposure. Students are shown how to determine the property insurance needs of a commercial client; reviewing Commercial Liability insurance, Business Interruption insurance and Commercial Package policies. Commercial insurance cases are analyzed utilizing risk management techniques and process. Hours: 36 Credits: 3 Pre-Requisites: CoRequisites:

Graduate Opportunities

A wide variety of employment opportunities is available in insurance companies, independent adjusting firms, insurance brokers and agencies, and other business organizations.

100% of 2009-2010 graduates found employment within 6 months of graduation. Their average starting salary was $31,670.

Degree Completion Opportunities

Conestoga College is dedicated to creating exciting and flexible degree completion opportunities for many programs for current, former and prospective students. Learn how a Conestoga education can respond to the community's demand for a skilled workforce and help you to reach your goal of a challenging and rewarding career.

Visit our Degree Completion Opportunities website.

Financial Assistance

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website: http://osap.gov.on.ca. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.

For more information, please visit Financial Aid/Awards.

Program Advisory Committees

The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.

For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.

How to Apply

Students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.

ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3

Conestoga Career Centre
careercentre@conestogac.on.ca
519-748-3535 or 877-748-3535

Disclaimer The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.