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Do you need a college degree to work in insurance?

What Ohio requires to get licensed — and when a degree can help.

4 min read

Short answer: no, you don't need a college degree to become a licensed insurance agent in Ohio.

What Ohio requires

To get licensed, you complete an approved pre-licensing course, pass the state exam, complete a background check and apply for your license. No high school diploma or GED is required to take our class or get licensed, though some employers may ask for one.

When a degree can help

Some roles and employers prefer or require a degree, especially in areas like underwriting, actuarial science or management. A degree in business, finance or risk management can also help you move up. Ohio colleges, including Bowling Green State University and the University of Akron, offer insurance and risk management programs.

No degree needed to start. Classes are live streamed anywhere in Ohio.

See classes & schedule

What matters more on day one

  • A license
  • Clear communication
  • Reliability and follow-through
  • A willingness to keep learning

Read more: How to get your Ohio insurance license in five weekends.