Kent State University junior Katelyn Moore is the first student to enroll in the new Bachelor of Science degree in insurance studies offered at Kent State University at Salem. An intelligent and ambitious student, Moore was looking for a major that would open future opportunities for a successful career in a rapidly growing industry. She believes she found the perfect fit with the insurance studies program at Kent State Salem.

"I plan to utilize the many capabilities that pursuing a degree in insurance studies will provide," Moore says. "Someday I hope to be employed by a company that will allow me to work toward positions of leadership. I think that having the ability to advance in a place of employment is a significant quality."

The Ohio Board of Regents recently approved the new degree, which will initially be offered only at Kent State Salem. Kent State President Lester A. Lefton says the new degree will provide students with expanded employment and career opportunities.

“The bachelor’s degree in insurance studies will help Kent State students find prosperous careers in this exciting and varied industry,” Lefton says. “National leaders such as the Westfield Group and Progressive Insurance, which have corporate headquarters located in areas served by Kent State’s Regional Campuses, will now find it easier to hire talented and qualified employees, and our students will enjoy new opportunities in a promising field.”

The degree was a combined effort of both industry and the university. The first classes are being held this fall, with the degree’s main courses being completed online.

Moore knew she was interested in business and was looking to find a niche that suited her.

"When I read about the new insurance studies major on Kent State's website, I knew it was the right choice," she says. "I am very family oriented, so being close to home has always been a priority of mine. I do not think there is a better industry for someone who plans to live and work in Ohio.

Moore recalls a personal situation several years ago when the help of insurance agents was critical.

"I was in middle school when our garage caught on fire and I remember there being a gentleman who came to our house to take pictures of the damage, and another gentleman whom my mother spoke to on the phone about replacing specific items. He knew all the details about our insurance policy and was able to assist us during the difficult time," she says. "Both men were very helpful to my family, and I look forward to the day when I can help families in similar situations."

Kent State is the only private or public university in Northeast Ohio offering a degree that directly links to
Ohio's growing insurance sector. By 2016, Ohio's insurance industry workforce is projected to grow by 7.1 percent. Additional employment opportunities also become available as an estimated 25 percent of the industry workforce plan on retiring by 2016. Kent State graduates will be qualified to pursue a career as a broker, claims examiner, loss prevention specialist, risk manager, underwriter, actuary, claims adjuster and more.

For more information on the new Bachelor of Science degree in insurance studies, please visit www.col.kent.edu/insurance or call 1-877-KENT-EDU.