Get a summary of what's required to earn the CPCU designation and how the program is structured.
What is CPCU?
The CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter) is The Institutes' premier designation — the leadership standard in risk management and insurance. It's designed for professionals looking to gain a broad, strategic view of the insurance business.
Program structure
CPCU requires 8 courses plus a Matriculation/Ethics requirement (10 total requirements):
- 5 core courses: CPCU 500, 520, 530, 540, and 550 (Data and Technology)
- 2 coverage concentration courses: Choose either Commercial or Personal lines
- 1 elective course
- Matriculation: A $90 fee plus completion of an online ethics course
- Ethics 312: A free online course that can be completed at any time
Estimated timeline
- Average course length: 6–8 weeks
- Typical program completion: 18–24 months
Packages and pricing
Each course offers an Online Learning package and a Recommended Package (which adds a printed course book). Visit the CPCU designation page for current pricing.
Approximate total cost
Study materials, exams, and matriculation combined are approximately $5,600–$6,000 (varies by package choice and exam timing).
Try it before you buy
A free 30–60 minute CPCU sample course is available on the designation page so you can preview the experience.
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