To work as an insurance underwriter, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

In the past, many underwriters entered the field with a high school diploma. They worked their way up to the job or took related college course work. However, most employers now require insurance underwriters to have a bachelor's degree. Common areas of study are business administration, finance, and accounting. Majors in related areas are also acceptable.

Work experience

Working in an insurance office provides good experience for this work. An internship with an insurance company while you are in college would be excellent preparation.

On-the-job training

Underwriters receive training on the job. New employees usually start as trainees or assistants to experienced underwriters. As a trainee, you may help collect information on applicants. You may also evaluate routine applications under the supervision of an experienced risk analyst. In addition, you study claims files to learn about the factors associated with losses. As you gain experience, you work on more complicated applications that carry greater risk. Training may last from several months up to a year.