Warren Ting

Why did you choose the Master of Professional Studies in Insurance Management at the Columbia School of Professional Studies? How does this program differentiate from an M.B.A.? 

The Masters of Professional Studies in Insurance Management is the only program of its kind in the insurance industry at the Ivy League level.  For current and aspiring leaders of the insurance industry, the program offers a specialized focus in the intricacies of the global insurance environment.  Comparing this program to the M.B.A., I decided on the M.P.S. in Insurance Management program as I was looking to tap into “inner workings” of an insurance organization, garnering the expertise of over 200+ years of insurance experience from our coveted lecturers whereas an M.B.A. would offer a more generalized curriculum.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to prospective students? 

Make sure you speak to the professors and alumni ambassadors during your application process!  It’s a great idea to speak to the professors in the program and students that have been through the process to not only make sure this program is for you, but to ease some of the stress during the application process.  Take advantage in communicating with alumni and your future faculty members as we are all there to help you succeed!

What are the benefits of this asynchronous program from a learning and networking perspective?

Being a working professional trying to balance family, career and academics, the asynchronous format of the program allows you to schedule your time for study within your lifestyle.  Due dates for assignments, reports and tests are given in advance in which you plan around.  Balancing time is challenging but you will find your “groove” after a few weeks into the program.  If you think you won’t build relationships in an asynchronous program, you will be wrong!  I have built a lifelong network with my cohort and past alumni that is stronger than many of my in-person relationships and will last a lifetime.

How did your career change during and/or after earning an M.P.S. in Insurance Management?

The M.P.S. in Insurance Management program has opened up many opportunities before I even completed the program.  The knowledge gained from the various courses has spawned a new found interest of financial compliance and regulation.  In addition to my current full-time job, I have been chosen as part of a technical advisory committee in the regulatory body of my province as a result of the experience I gained in the Global Legal & Regulatory Ecosystem course in the program.  This program has also prepared me for advancement for further leadership positions within the insurance industry.