Programmes

The Certificate in Insurance Product Advice (APA) requires the completion of two core modules and one product module. Each module consists of a 100-question multiple-choice exam.

The Certificate in Insurance Practice (CIP) is designed for APA holders and requires the completion of one product module and two process modules. The product module assessment is a 100-question multiple-choice exam, while the process modules include a 2-hour written exam and a multiple-choice mid-semester assessment worth 10% of the final grade.

The Higher Diploma in Insurance Management is for those who have held a CIP for three years or have a Level 7 qualification and several years of experience in the insurance industry. It requires the completion of five programme modules (two core, one diploma, and two advanced diploma). Modules are graded through continuous assessment, including written assignments, MCQ exams, and problem-based exam questions.

Qualification
A qualification is an academic award conferred by an educational body. For example, the Certificate in Insurance Practice is awarded by Atlantic Technological University Sligo. Holders of an academic qualification have successfully completed a specific course of study; however, this does not automatically mean they are competent to practice a trade or profession—this is where the designation comes into play.

Designation
The term "designation" refers to the letters used after one’s name upon successful completion of a qualification, indicating a compliant and knowledgeable professional—essentially your license to trade. Designations can be revoked if certain conditions, such as maintaining membership and meeting CPD requirements, are not fulfilled. The Central Bank of Ireland's Minimum Competency Code 2017 outlines recognized insurance designations and the regulatory CPD requirements for maintaining compliance.

The Insurance Institute offers professional qualifications recognized at Levels 7 and 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in partnership with Atlantic Technological University Sligo, our accreditation partner.

Member Services Team

Available 9:00am-5:00pm, 5 days a week and can answer any membership or programme-related questions you may have. They can be reached at memberservices@iii.ie, on 01-6456670 or by visiting the Contact us page.

Member Area

A dedicated online area where you can access study supports, CPD eLearning, and other exclusive resources to aid your career development.

Education Team

Access the subject matter expert responsible for your module, who can assist with any queries you have about your studies.

Our core qualification semesters start at various points throughout the year:

APA & CIP: Semesters start in February, June and September

Higher Diploma: Semesters start in June & December

For information on all other programs, please contact our Member Services team.