Bowie State University Launches Bachelor’s Degree in Risk Management & Insurance

(BOWIE, Md.) — Bowie State University is expanding its undergraduate programs by offering a new Bachelor of Science in Risk Management & Insurance in the College of Business. The program will begin offering classes in fall 2026.

“The degree program is designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in a rapidly evolving global industry while strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals,” said William L. Roberts, executive director of the Maguire Academy of Insurance & Risk Management. “Graduates will be prepared for a range of career opportunities, including roles as risk analysts, underwriters, claims specialists, brokers and compliance managers. Our goal is to open doors to a stable, opportunity-rich industry and ensure that our students receive strong academic preparation, hands-on experience and access to leaders in the field.”

The program offers coursework in enterprise risk management, insurance operations, underwriting, claims, regulatory compliance and data‑driven decision‑making. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through internships, industry panels, symposiums and networking opportunities, in partnership with the Maguire Academy of Insurance & Risk Management.

The academy leads the development of a comprehensive insurance and risk management education program that prepares students from all majors for careers in a rapidly growing field. Through this partnership, students build professional relationships leading to internships, mentorships, job opportunities and long-term careers.

“The launch of this degree program represents a meaningful milestone, and we are honored to celebrate this achievement with the university,” said Megan Maguire O’Hara, president and CEO of the Maguire Foundation. “We are proud to continue our family’s longstanding commitment to workforce development and expanding access to education and opportunity. We look forward to seeing the impact of programs like this on Bowie State students and the industry for years to come.”

Maguire O’Hara’s father, James Maguire, philanthropist, founder and chairman emeritus of Philadelphia Consolidated Holding Company, has long supported nonprofit and educational institutions through the Maguire Foundation. Established by Frances M. and James J. Maguire, the foundation has also supported the Maguire Scholars Program at Bowie State and other institutions, providing scholarships to students.

Learn more about Bowie State University and apply at bowiestate.edu/apply.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State University offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Stacie Burgess, sburgess@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-4311