"The mortgage banking industry is committed to the ongoing improvement, education and responsibility of its professionals," said John Golden, MBA's Vice President of Education. "The CLO proves its commitment by requiring all designees to complete comprehensive education requirements and to sign and adhere to a strict code of ethics.  The ultimate vision for the CLO is for companies to have their originators certified as a way of demonstrating to consumers that they possess the industry standard seal of quality."

The progressive CLO program builds on the loan originator's established experience and knowledge.  The first two levels, the Certified Loan Officer achievement certificate and the Certified Loan Officer professional certificate, lay a foundation for the final level -- the Certified Loan Officer specialist designation, the CLO.  Enrollment for the first two levels of the CLO is now open for MBA members and nonmembers.  Each level involves specific training on general and advanced origination practices and guidelines.   All courses are Web-based for student flexibility. 

Originators and brokers can satisfy state continuing education requirements while earning the CLO.  More than half of the required courses also fulfill licensing requirements in many states.

For more information on the CLO program, visit CampusMBA's Web site at http://www.campusmba.org/CLO or call (800) 348-8653. 

If you are a member of the media and have questions, please contact Aleis Stokes at (202) 557-2741.

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The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) is the national association representing the real estate finance industry, an industry that employs more than 280,000 people in virtually every community in the country. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the association works to ensure the continued strength of the nation's residential and commercial real estate markets; to expand homeownership and extend access to affordable housing to all Americans. MBA promotes fair and ethical lending practices and fosters professional excellence among real estate finance employees through a wide range of educational programs and a variety of publications. Its membership of over 2,200 companies includes all elements of real estate finance: mortgage companies, mortgage brokers, commercial banks, thrifts, Wall Street conduits, life insurance companies and others in the mortgage lending field. For additional information, visit MBA's Web site:  www.mortgagebankers.org.