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Insurance Practice (General)
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Course Details
Course Code | SG_BINSU_H08 |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 3 Years |
Credits | 180 |
Method of Delivery | Blended |
Campus Locations | Sligo |
Course Overview
The aim of the BA (Hons) in Insurance Practice is:
To provide apprentices with a qualification that is academically robust and professionally relevant.
To ensure apprentices have a specialist knowledge of the relevant theory and practice of the insurance sector that will enable them to meet the Central Bank of Ireland’s Minimum Competency Code and increase their employability as graduates.
To develop wider business skills such as self-awareness, problem-solving and critical thinking to enable them to link their learning to work-based practices.
To develop competencies that will empower them to engage with emerging trends in the industry and prepare them for a range of working environments.
The programme is a three-year honours degree programme. The programme provides students with a learning pathway backed by internationally recognised professional qualifications (QFA/CIP) and a syllabus focusing on key sector drivers of change, such as technology, data, and ESG, while entwining them with business, knowledge skills and competency relevant to all sectors.
The career of an insurance professional is varied and diverse, and this programme ensures our graduates have a sustainable career in insurance that reflects best practices, industry requirements and demand.
ATU Sligo is the co-ordinating provider of the BA (Hons) in Insurance Practice.
Apprentices will study online from their place of work one day per week. A core element of the apprenticeship will be the practical on-the-job work experience, which will enable them to test their knowledge and enhance their skills.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
The Nature of Insurance 1 (Theory)This module provides a basic knowledge and understanding of the nature of insurance. It introduces students to the Irish insurance market. It explores the concept of risk including its insurability and management. In the context of the underwriting process, it examines premium setting, reinsurance, contract law and the principles of utmost good faith and insurable interest. The law of tort is outlined in terms of its relevance to insurance. The claims process and the application of relevant principles of insurance (proximate cause, indemnity, subrogation and contribution) are explained and applied. Learning Outcomes 1. Illustrate the key concepts underlying insurance and describe the insurance market. 2. Determinethe relevance of the laws of tort and contract in insurance. 3. Discuss and applyinsurance principles (including subrogation, contribution, indemnity, utmost good faith, proximate cause and insurable interest) in their relevant contexts i.e. underwriting, claims etc. 4. Outline the roles of the various professionals and areas of business involved in the general insurance profession. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
The Nature of Insurance 2 (Practice)This module requires the students to implement the knowledge and understanding of the nature of insurance within the workplace. Students will be exposed to the concept of risk including its insurability and management. In the context of the underwriting process, students will undertake premium setting, examine reinsurance, contract law and the principles of utmost good faith and insurable interest. The law of tort is outlined in terms of its relevance to insurance. The claims process and the application of relevant principles of insurance (proximate cause, indemnity, subrogation and contribution) are explained and applied. Learning Outcomes 1. Illustrate the key concepts underlying insurance and describe the insurance market. 2. Determine and apply the relevance of the laws of tort and contract in insurance. 3. Discuss and applyinsurance principles (including subrogation, contribution, indemnity, utmost good faith, proximate cause and insurable interest) in their relevant contexts i.e. underwriting, claims etc. 4. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Professional Business CommunicationThe aim of this module is to prepare students to communicate and operate effectively in a professional business environment from an office or working from a home environment. Students will develop writing strategies to enable them to respond to a variety of communication scenarios, including complaint handling. They will study the mechanics of Business English, report writing and other writing strategies. Learning Outcomes 1. Appreciate the principles of effective communication. 3. Practice effective business correspondence: including dealing with customercomplaints and preparing reports. 4. Demonstrate reading comprehension and text analysis skills including complex factual texts and specialised articles. 5. Appreciate the skills required to write an academic report. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Teamwork and Workplace CollaborationThis module is designed to introduce students to the Higher Education and workplace environment and to develop learning, study, teamwork and collaboration skills. The module will motivate students to develop a more independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, learning, time management and professionalism in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop an independent, self managed, reflective approach to work and lifelong learning. 2. Be familiar with workplace culture and professional workplace behaviour. 3. Demonstrate effective communicationskills in giving presentations and managing meetings. 4. Evaluate the communication behaviour of individuals and groups. 5. Collaborate effectively in groups, teams and meetings, in person & virtually. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Compliance and Advice 1 (Theory)This module outlines the need for and impact of regulation on the general, private medical and intermediary insurance business. It outlines the responsibilities arising out of the Central Bank Consumer Protection Code on all aspects of the insurance business; in particular the documentation and provision of advice. It examines other sources of regulation (e.g. data protection, equality and financial crime legislation) and their effect on the operation of the insurance market. Dispute resolution and ethics are also discussed. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the purpose and source of regulation (legal and ethical) within which insurance (general and PMI) regulation takes place. 2. Demonstrate and conveythe impact of this regulation on the provision of advice throughout the insurance process. 3. Outline and demonstrate the impact of non-insurance specific legislation on insurance organisations – insurers (general and PMI) and intermediaries – and on the protection of consumers. 4. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the role of the Central Bank and other regulatory authorities on the insurance profession. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Compliance and Advice 2 (Practice)This module outlines the practical application of regulation on the general, private medical and intermediary insurance business. It requires the student to understand the responsibilities arising out of the Central Bank Consumer Protection Code on all aspects of the insurance business; in particular the documentation and provision of advice. The student will examine other sources of regulation (e.g. data protection, equality and financial crime legislation) and demonstrate in practice their effect on the operation of the insurance market. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the purpose and source ofregulation (legal & ethical) within which insurance (general & PMI) regulation takes place and the role of the Central Bank and other regulatory authorities. 2. Demonstrate and convey the impact of regulation on the provision of advice through the insurance process. 3. Demonstrate the impact of non-insurance-specific legislation on insurance organisations – insurers (general & PMI) and intermediaries – and on the protection of consumers. 4. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Technical Communication (Numeric)This module aims to provide learners with the necessary skills and competence to understand mathematical concepts and investigate a range of common uses for spreadsheets. It aims also to enable students to understand and assess quantitative information presented to them. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate competence in numerical operations. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Customer ServiceThis module allows the student to develop effective customer care skills, empowering them to create positive customer experiences for both acquisition and retention of customers, build customer loyalty and cultivate a customer-centric attitude for the benefit of customers and the organisation. Core to this is the learning of key communication and interpersonal skills relevant to organisations. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the principles of excellent customer service in the context of the customer’s overall experience with an organisation. 2. Consider the contribution of customer service to business performance. 3. Develop and demonstrate key customer service and interpersonal communication skills. 4. Apply concepts of consumer and business buyer behaviour to real world situations. |
10 | Mandatory |
3 |
Personal General Insurance 1 (Theory)This module aims to develop the knowledge and skills required to provide personal general insurance advice to consumers. It centers on the gathering and analysis of information relevant to the identification of appropriate insurance solutions for the consumer. It provides details on the scope of and issues relevant to the underwriting of various classes of personal general insurances. It also deals with the completion of relevant documentation and the provision of claims advice. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and evaluate a consumer’s insurance needs; taking account of up-to-date knowledge of products and insurance providers 2. Analyse the information gathered and develop effective solutions to meet the risks faced by the consumer; with required documentation; while highlighting the issues that are of particular importance to a range of personal general(including PMI) insurance. 3. Display specialist knowledge of the scope of personal lines and private medical insurance products available in the Irish market. 4. Demonstrate the step-by-step procedures involved in insurance claims. |
05 | Mandatory |
3 |
Personal General Insurance 2 (Practice)This module aims to develop the knowledge and skills required to provide personal general insurance advice to consumers. It centers on the gathering and analysis of information relevant to the identification of appropriate insurance solutions for the consumer. It provides details on the scope of and issues relevant to the underwriting of various classes of personal general insurances. It also deals with the completion of relevant documentation and the provision of claims advice. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and evaluate a consumer’s insurance needs; taking account of up-to-date knowledge of products and insurance providers. 2. Analyse the information gathered and develop effective solutions to meet the risks faced by the consumer; with required documentation; while highlighting the issues that are of particular importance to a range of personal general(including PMI) insurance. 3. Display specialist knowledge of the scope of personal lines and private medical insurance products which are available in the Irish market. 4. Demonstrate the step-by-step procedures involved in insurance claims. 5. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Commercial General Insurance 1 (Theory)This module aims to develop the knowledge and skills required to provide commercial general insurance advice to clients. It centers on the benefits of establishing a positive relationship with a commercial client, the gathering and analysis of information relevant to the identification of appropriate insurance solutions for the client. It provides details on the scope of and issues relevant to the underwriting of various classes of commercial general insurances (namely, motor, commercial property, business interruption, fidelity guarantee and engineering policies, employers and public liability and related commercial liability classes, directors' and officers' liabilities, professional indemnity and commercial legal expenses covers). It also deals with the completion of relevant documentation and the provision of claims advice. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a criticalunderstanding of the nature of the adviser-client relationship to establish a consumer risk profile and identify their insurance needs; taking account of up-to-date knowledge of products and insurance providers. 2. Analyse the information gathered and develop effective solutions to meet the risks faced by the client; with required documentation; while highlighting the issues that are of particular importance to a range of commercial general insurances. 3. Display specialist knowledge of the scope of commercial lines insurance products available in the Irish market. 4. Demonstrate the step-by-step procedures involved in insurance claims. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Commercial General Insurance 2 (Practice)This module aims to enable the student to apply the knowledge and skills required to provide commercial general insurance advice to clients. It centers on the benefits of establishing a positive relationship with a commercial client, the practical gathering and analysis of information relevant to the identification of appropriate insurance solutions for the client. It provides details on the scope of and issues relevant to the underwriting of various classes of commercial general insurances (namely, motor, commercial property, business interruption, fidelity guarantee and engineering policies, employers and public liability and related commercial liability classes, directors' and officers' liabilities, professional indemnity and commercial legal expenses covers). It also deals with the completion of relevant documentation and the provision of claims advice. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the nature of the adviser-client relationship to establish a consumer risk profile and identify their insurance needs; taking account of up-to-date knowledge of products and insurance providers. 2. Analyse the information gathered and develop effective solutions to meet the risks faced by the client; with required documentation; while highlighting the issues that are of particular importance to a range of commercial general insurances. 3. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of the scope of commercial lines insurance products available in the Irish market. 4. Demonstrate the step-by-stepprocedures involved in insurance claims. 5. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Introduction to ManagementThis module aims to develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts, theories and practices of modern management. The module will also focus on managing oneself as an apprentice in a dynamic work environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Examine the roles and Skills of competent managers and the challenges that face modern managers 2. Outline the role of management theory and its impact on modern management practices. 3. Describe and demonstrate knowledge of the key management processes – planning, organising, leading, and controlling. 4. Describe the forces in the business environment and how organisations can respond to these forces in a dynamicglobal environment. 5. Develop Self Management Skills and sucessful communication strategies for people management. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Omni-Channel Marketing and SalesThis module introduces students to the principles of marketing and sales. It gives students an appreciation of the omni-channel marketing mix used to drive inbound sales. The module exposes students to contemporary software used to automate the marketing and sales process, while also addressing legal, ethical and compliance issues in marketing. Students will learn marketing and sales techniques used as part of an inbound customer strategy. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the principles of marketing. 2. Evaluate channels in the omni channel marketing mix. 3. Analyse the role of sales within marketing. 4. Examine emerging technologies in marketing and sales. 5. Appraise legal, ethical and compliance considerations for marketing and sales |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Technology Trends in InsuranceIn this module the learner will explore the impact of information technology on the insurance industry. The students will examine recent and current technology trends that have shaped and are shaping business in general and the insurance industry in particular. They will examine how technology is facilitating change throughout the insurance industry and will explore what the industry of the future might look like. Learning Outcomes 1. Examine the evolving impact technology has had on society, organisations, individuals and business models to date. 2. Assess the strategic importance of emerging technologies to the insurance industry 3. Demonstrate an understanding of the technical infrastructure utilised by businesses in the insurance industry and of how technologies contribute to the competitiveness of these firms 4. Examine future trends in the Insurance Industry and analyse how many of these trends are informed by and facilitated by technology 5. Identify and discuss ethical, regulatory and sustainability issues that may arise as a result of technological developments and how technology may be used to address some issues facing the insurance industry |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Practice of Risk Control and Underwriting 1 (Theory)This module focuses on the function of insurance underwriting and the environment in which this function takes place. It examines the development of corporate strategy and its impact on an insurers underwriting strategy. The underwriting policies and practices which derive from the underwriting strategy are applied to the main classes of insurance. The risk pricing techniques used by insurers are explored. The potential risks to which an insurer is exposed are examined, with the focus being on how these risks are controlled, in particular by reinsurance. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and evaluate the factors impacting on an insurers corporate and underwriting strategy. 2. Critically discuss underwriting policy and practice and demonstrate how you would apply these to the main classes of insurance business. 3. Display detailed knowledge of the environment in which underwriting takes place in the Irish insurance market. 4. Demonstrate a critical awareness ofthe principles and practices of risk pricing. 5. Explain in detail how an insurer controls their potential risk exposure and the role of reinsurance therein. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Practice of Risk Control and Underwriting 2 (Practice)This module is designed to give students the opportunity to integrate the academic knowledge gained into a practical work-based setting through the completion of case studies and on the job task(s) relevant to their workplace setting and engage in critical reflection regarding the impact of this knowledge on organisational and personal performance. This module focuses on the function of insurance underwriting and the environment in which this function takes place. The student will demonstrate a practical understanding of how corporate and underwriting strategies are applied. The impact of pricing, including risk data management and claims functions in risk price calculations. This module requires students to apply their knowledge of underwriting and risk control policy to practical situations, in particular reinsurance. The module also helps develop many of the personal and professional attributes outlined in the occupational profile for the industry (link to updated profile). Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and evaluate the factors impacting on an insurers corporate and underwriting strategy. 2. Applyunderwriting policy and practice in the workplace, demonstratinghow you would apply these policiesto the main classes of insurance business. 3. Display detailed knowledge of the environment in which underwriting takes place in the Irish insurance market. 4. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the principles and practices of risk pricing. 5. Demonstratehow an insurer controls their potential risk exposure and the role of reinsurance therein. 6. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Practice of General Insurance Broking 1 (Theory)This module introduces students to the issues relevant to the world of insurance broking. This module explores the role of the broker at all stages of the insurance process, from identification of client needs to negotiation and placing of insurance contracts, to the design and operation of insurance programmes and all claims-related activities. The module aims to provide broking students with the ability to apply this knowledge and skills to straightforward questions. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and apply the key aspects of the legal and regulatory environment within which brokers operate. 2. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of the role of the broker in meeting clients’ needs and the process of negotiation undertaking in the placing of insurance contracts. 3. Identify specificcriteria used by brokers in insurer selection. 4. Demonstrate a detailed understanding ofthe role of the broker in the design and operation of insurance programmes and in the claims negotiation, collection and payment process. 5. Identify and evaluate the range of services available from insurance brokers and their benefits to clients. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Practice of General Insurance Broking 2 (Practice)This module is designed to give students the opportunity to integrate the academic knowledge gained into a practical work-based setting through the completion of case studies and on the job task(s) relevant to their workplace setting and engage in critical reflection regarding the impact of this knowledge on organisational and personal performance. This module enables students to address issues relevant to the world of insurance brokering within the work environment. This module explores the role of the broker at all stages of the insurance process – from identification of client needs to negotiation and placing of insurance contracts, to the design and operation of insurance programmes and all claims-related activities. The module also helps develop many of the personal and professional attributes outlined in the occupational profile for the industry (link to updated profile). Learning Outcomes 1. Apply the key aspects of the legal and regulatory environment within which brokers operate. 2. Demonstrate the role of the broker in meeting clients’ needs and the process of negotiation undertaking in the placing of insurance contracts. 3. Identify specificcriteria used by brokers in insurer selection. 4. Demonstrate the role of the broker in the design and operation of insurance programmes and in the claims negotiation, collection and payment process. 5. Evaluatethe range of services available from insurance brokers and their benefits to clients. 6. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Negotiation in PracticeThis module aims to facilitate the development of effective negotiation skills in the context of competitive business environments. Students will cultivate persuasive communication techniques through an understanding of effective negotiation strategies based on collaborative and creative working practices. The student will learn the importance of ethics in negotiation and how to resolve conflicts effectively whilst also fostering inclusive and dynamic communications within business environments that strengthen relationships. Students will learn the importance of self awareness in skilled negotiation communication so that communication interactions become opportunities to build relationships, foster consumer confidence, drive teamwork and increase productivity and company sales. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse effective Negotiation Strategies. 2. Apply the concepts of Influence and Persuasion. 3. Demonstrate Active Listening and Active Speaking techniques. 4. Evaluate Online Negotiationin comparison to Face-to-Face Negotiation 5. Assess how to identify, generate and develop Mentors and Networks that supportstudents in their professionalrole. 6. Reflect on Positive and Negative Conflict structures within an organisation |
10 | Mandatory |
3 |
Practice of Claims and Loss Adjusting 1 (Theory)The module focuses on the function of insurance claims and the environment in which this function takes place. It examines the progression of a claim from notification to investigation to settlement and dispute resolution with particular reference to the professionals, regulation and documentation involved. It revisits the insurance principles but examines them from the perspective of their role in the claims process. The issues relating to third party claims (e.g. the Personal Injuries Assessment Board and the involvement of the courts.) are given special consideration. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstratea comprehensive knowledgeof the claims environment. 2. Deliberatethe progression of a claim from notification to investigation to settlement and dispute resolution with particular reference to the professionals, regulation and documentation involved. 3. Demonstrate critical knowledge ofhow indemnity is applied and measured. 4. Demonstrate a critical knowledgeofthe special considerations relevant to third party claims. |
05 | Elective |
3 |
Practice of Claims and Loss Adjusting 2 (Practice)This module aims to apply the academic knowledge gained from the study of the theory module Practice of Claims and Loss Adjusting. The student will demonstrate a practical understanding of the function of insurance claims and the environment in which this function takes place. The student will demonstrate the progression of a claim from notification to investigation to settlement and dispute resolution with particular reference to the professionals, regulations and documentation involved. The module requires the student to revisit their knowledge of the insurance principles and examine them from the perspective of their role in the claims process. The issues relating to third party claims (e.g. the Personal Injuries Assessment Board and the involvement of the courts) are given special consideration from a practical perspective. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the claims environment. 2. Demonstratethe progression of a claim from notification to investigation to settlement and dispute resolution with particular reference to the professionals, regulation and documentation involved. 3. Demonstrate critical understanding on how indemnity is applied and measured. 4. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the special considerations relevant to third party claims. 5. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Elective |
3 |
Practice of Risk Control and Underwriting 1 (Theory)This module focuses on the function of insurance underwriting and the environment in which this function takes place. It examines the development of corporate strategy and its impact on an insurers underwriting strategy. The underwriting policies and practices which derive from the underwriting strategy are applied to the main classes of insurance. The risk pricing techniques used by insurers are explored. The potential risks to which an insurer is exposed are examined, with the focus being on how these risks are controlled, in particular by reinsurance. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and evaluate the factors impacting on an insurers corporate and underwriting strategy. 2. Critically discuss underwriting policy and practice and demonstrate how you would apply these to the main classes of insurance business. 3. Display detailed knowledge of the environment in which underwriting takes place in the Irish insurance market. 4. Demonstrate a critical awareness ofthe principles and practices of risk pricing. 5. Explain in detail how an insurer controls their potential risk exposure and the role of reinsurance therein. |
05 | Elective |
3 |
Practice of Risk Control and Underwriting 2 (Practice)This module is designed to give students the opportunity to integrate the academic knowledge gained into a practical work-based setting through the completion of case studies and on the job task(s) relevant to their workplace setting and engage in critical reflection regarding the impact of this knowledge on organisational and personal performance. This module focuses on the function of insurance underwriting and the environment in which this function takes place. The student will demonstrate a practical understanding of how corporate and underwriting strategies are applied. The impact of pricing, including risk data management and claims functions in risk price calculations. This module requires students to apply their knowledge of underwriting and risk control policy to practical situations, in particular reinsurance. The module also helps develop many of the personal and professional attributes outlined in the occupational profile for the industry (link to updated profile). Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and evaluate the factors impacting on an insurers corporate and underwriting strategy. 2. Applyunderwriting policy and practice in the workplace, demonstratinghow you would apply these policiesto the main classes of insurance business. 3. Display detailed knowledge of the environment in which underwriting takes place in the Irish insurance market. 4. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the principles and practices of risk pricing. 5. Demonstratehow an insurer controls their potential risk exposure and the role of reinsurance therein. 6. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with qualified practitioners; learn to act in variable unfamiliar learning contexts managing tasks independently, professionally and ethically. |
05 | Elective |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Capstone Project Preparation (Research Methods)The Capstone Preparation module is designed to provide the appropriate research skills, knowledge and practical guidance necessary to complete the Capstone Dissertation. The Capstone Preparation module is designed to provide the appropriate research skills, knowledge and practical guidance necessary to complete a Capstone research proposal and ethical application that will guide their Capstone Dissertation. Learning Outcomes 1. Generate research questions reflecting a topic of interest related to the insurance industry or business. 2. Critically review the literature and create a literature review framework. 3. Demonstrate knowledge of the various research methodologies and research designs to carry out a dissertation project. 4. Comprehend the role of ethics within the research process. 5. Construct a research proposal with a related ethics application form. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Innovation, Creativity and Critical ThinkingInnovation, Creativity and Critical Thinking Innovation and Creativity in Business' is appropriate for all students interested in innovation as a necessary component of businesses today. The course blends primary reading materials with additional reading and case-based learning. The readings from a number of different sources (including academic research articles, popular and business presses and case studies) provide conceptual frameworks that may help with case analysis. Learners will critically examine innovation and creativity theoretically, with a particular focus on applying it in practice and in a business context. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the creative process and the application of creative and innovative strategies to a variety of contexts. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Big Data / Advanced ExcelThe module will introduce a range of tools and techniques that can help business professionals uncover important information and make informed decisions based on data. It will introduce basic concepts and approaches of Quantitative Methods and will enable students to solve problems and make decisions using various statistical tools. It will empower students to leverage descriptive statistics and understand basic data visualisation techniques. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an awareness of prominentsurvey designs andsampling strategies 2. Use a wide range of spreadsheet functions used in a business environment 5. Perform calculations for measures of correlation and regression. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Business Law for Insurance PractitionersThis module will give the Insurance Practitioner a general introduction to insurance law within the Irish and European legal systems.This module builds on the legal content in the insurance modules in year 1 and year 2 and equips the learner with knowledge and skills which are essential in the commercial environment and the insurance industry. Studies will include the Law of Agency, principles of insurance, and the formation of the insurance contract. The module will also focus on legal development in the supervision and regulation of the insurance industry. It is intended that this module will create an awareness of where legal expertise may need to be sought. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the system of administration of justice in Ireland, the court system, and the sources of Irish law. 2. Apply the fundamental principles of contract law and tort law to facilitate informed decisions in the commercial environment; 3. Examine and detail the laws of agency, duty of agents, and an agent’s rights and authority. 4. Critically engage with developments in Insurance Law, the role of the Central Bank, and in the insurance industry’s regulation and supervision. 5. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the fundamental principles of insurance law, and their role in the construction of an insurance contract |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Financial Analysis and InterpretationThe aim of this module is to enable students to interpret the financial results of a small business, distinguish between profitability and liquidity and appreciate the need for financial planning; and to develop an understanding of the financial management methods used in appraising capital investment options and assessing appropriate sources of finance. Learning Outcomes 1. Interpret the financial statements of a limited company using ratio analysis and report on financial performance. 2. Discuss the crucial importance of cash to a business and prepare basic calculationsto assist in the management of working capital. 3. Apply the main techniques used in the appraisal of capital expenditure decisions and interpret the results. 5. Discuss the different layout of financial statements,terminology and KPIs used in Insurance related industry. 6. Consider sustainability issues in all financial management decisions e.g. Capital investment, sources of finance, KPIs to be measured, shareholder expectations, sustainable finance. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Capstone Project ReviewThe purpose of the module is to allow students to consider their conclusions and recommendations from the capstone project in the context of implementation in their workplace or industry, in consultation with relevant personnel. The module is an integral part of the capstone project will provide students with an opportunity for applied learning, which is directly relevant to their workplace or industry. Learning Outcomes 1. Present the findings and recommendations of the capstone project in the workplace or industry forum. 2. Conduct an interview with a relevant workplace manager or industry representative. 3. Prepare a plan, using an agreed template, to identify resources required for implementation, and any impediments. 4. Design a poster to illustrate the research and outputs from the capstone project. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Capstone Project / DissertationThe goal of the capstone project is to put the research proposal into practice by carrying out independent research, (albeit guided with a supervisor) to produce an applied research report that makes a tangible contribution to solving a problem and/or expanding the knowledge base in the specific discipline.The capstone project will be in an insurance related topic, and / or related to the students workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply theoretical and methodological understanding and skills to explore researchable ideas and specific research questions or hypotheses. 2. Conduct a focused review of the relevant literature. 4. Articulate concisely findings and conclusions in a written document which is informed by academic writing standards and justify conclusions by reference to evidence gathered and presented. |
10 | Mandatory |
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Progression
Graduates of the programme can continue to pursue postgraduate awards in the fields of business, finance, and insurance.
They may also choose to continue their studies and apply to progress to achieve the following professional qualifications.
Higher Diploma in Insurance Management (MDI)
Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII)
CII Fellowship (FCII)
Certificate in Climate Risk
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Recruitment to programme
Academic: Academic assessment of the programme’s suitability will align with ATU requirements.
Employer: The employer/industry will recruit the apprentices as they are employed by their sponsoring company.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for applicants to ATU Honours Degree (Level 8) programmes are as follows
Applicants must achieve a pass in the Leaving Certificate and meet minimum entry criteria as follows:
Six Leaving Certificate subjects.
A minimum of two subjects at grade H5 or better.
Remaining subjects at O6/H7 or better.
Subjects must include either English or Irish.
Mathematics is a required subject for this programme.
The apprentice must be employed under an approved contract of apprenticeship for the duration of their training.
Mature applicants are assessed on the basis of educational qualifications and an entrance interview.
Testimonial
“I was particularly drawn to the structure of this programme, which allows me to study for my BA in Insurance Practice and work towards my professional insurance qualifications, all while gaining valuable work experience. This combination of education and real-world application is ideal for developing a well-rounded understanding of the industry.
Working in the industry while studying has also allowed me to network with experienced professionals, get to know people within my own company, and gain insights that aren’t normally available in a traditional classroom setting.
I also love having the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals, the lecturers in the programme are fantastic and always willing to share their knowledge and experience.
For anyone interested in starting a career in insurance, I would highly recommend this apprenticeship as it offers a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow, and make meaningful connections in the field.”
Rosalie Lockhart , Insurance Practice Apprenticeship
Careers
As an earn-and-learn programme, students are considered hugely employable and have a long and prosperous career ahead of them.
Further Information
Contact Information
Any queries, please email us: BAInsurance.sligo@atu.ie
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