Coe College is adding a risk management/insurance concentration within its Stead Department of Business Administration and Economics, beginning this academic year.
The program is being launched in response to growing demand for risk management skills across the insurance and financial sectors, driven by economic uncertainty, regulatory changes, climate impacts and expanded risk mitigation strategies.
“The circumstances are right for Coe students to thrive in this field,” said Josh Christensen, assistant professor of business administration and economics. “Jobs related to risk management are estimated to grow at a double-digit percentage increase over the next decade according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and this will be one of just a handful of risk management concentrations available at the small private college level.”
Students pursuing the concentration will major in business administration and take additional courses in insurance operations and business risk management. The college said the Cedar Rapids region’s concentration of insurance and financial firms provides opportunities for internships and work experience.
“We strive to connect students with local partners in all situations, and this risk management concentration aligns superbly with a core business locally and across the state,” said Coe College President David Hayes. “We’re proud to introduce another area of study that serves future needs and are confident this will be energizing for local business and our students.”
The concentration is supported by a gift from Coe Trustee Jon Reiner of RT Specialty, expanding internship opportunities into the Chicago area.
The department now offers eight concentrations along with the business administration major, including finance, international business, marketing and sports management. Coe students also manage the Birkey Investment Fund and participate in paid summer research through Spellman Research Associates.
