This course provides you with an in-depth overview of the credit union movement, with an emphasis on how credit unions differentiate themselves from other financial institutions. The material contained within this course will increase your knowledge of credit union history as well as your confidence in explaining to members what sets credit unions apart.



This course features interactive online activities as a part of the print-based course. See them for yourself.

Hide detail

Following are the learning objectives for each course:

The Credit Union Difference:

• Explain why "the credit union difference" is important to consumers
• Describe how membership distinguishes credit unions from all other financial institutions
• Describe how credit unions originated as cooperatives
• Understand the characteristics that make credit unions unique among financial service providers
• Explain why credit unions were first organized in the United States

Member Service: The Core of Credit Unions:

• Explain how credit union services are designed to meet member needs
• Define basic account types and terms, such as share accounts, share drafts, and dividends
• Describe how credit unions are able to offer fair rates and fees to members
• Understand the importance of member education and counseling
• Learn how fields of membership are changing, and how that may affect service offerings

What is the Credit Union Movement?:

• Explain how members exercise their votes in credit unions
• List functions of the board of directors, supervisory committee, and credit committee
• Describe state, local, national, and international organizations that support the credit union movement
• Describe the key functions of the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and how share insurance protects members’ savings
• Know the difference between state- and federally chartered credit unions

A Tradition of Community Involvement:

• Describe ways that credit unions contribute to their communities through charitable activities, community events, and emergency relief efforts
• Explain the increasing importance of community charters, and give examples of how credit unions respond to diverse membership groups
• Describe ways that credit unions help communities through financial literacy programs
• Understand how credit unions serve members of modest means through community development credit unions and individual development accounts
• Describe examples of international credit union development programs

You and Your Credit Union:

• List and explain how your credit union is unique
• Identify ways to begin developing your credit union career
• Compare and contrast your credit union to other financial institutions
• Learn about Project Differentiation and how your credit union is participating in this initiative
• Identify ways that your unique credit union can best serve members
• Know how to communicate these unique features to members