Actuarial Science

Actuarial Science

College of Arts & Science >> Division of Mathematical Sciences

The Actuarial Science major is designed to prepare the student with a thorough understanding of mathematics with a special emphasis on those areas of mathematics used in actuarial science. The program is broad enough to allow the student to continue on with graduate studies in mathematics or actuarial science; however, most students will first seek a job in industry or government. This program requires 36 hours in the major and 18-25 hours in a selected minor study concentration.

For years actuarial science has ranked in the top 20 as a desirable job field in terms of job satisfaction, advancement opportunities, and salary. You may check this field out on the following internet site sponsored by the Actuarial Society: http://www.beanactuary.org/

Curriculum Highlights

  • Freshman
  • Transcendental Functions
  • Calculus I
  •  
  • Sophomore
  • Calculus II & III
  • Elementary & Linear Algebra
  • Principles of Accounting I & II
  • Business Statistics
  •  
  • Junior
  • Calculus IV
  • Actuarial Science I & II
  • Actuarial Exam I Preparation
  • Principles of Microeconomics
  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  •  
  • Senior
  • Mathematics Electives
  • Probability & Statistics I & II
  • Actuarial Exam II Preparation

For further details see complete major information: Actuarial Science Personal Opportunity Profile PDF

You may also contact Admissions (1.800.BJ.AND.ME) to receive a printed copy of this information.

Key Courses

Calculus Calculus is a 4-semester sequence of courses which is the heart of the math program. You will study tools that enable one to approximate functions with polynomials, calculate volumes and area of irregular shaped objects, and find maxima and minima of functions. These tools are essential for any successful actuary.

Theory of Interest In this calculus-based math of interest class, you study the necessary rules for the movement of money.

Actuarial Science I and II and Actuarial Exam I and II Preparation These classes lay the foundation for your actuarial preparation for the actuarial exams on levels I and II.

Probability and Statistics I and II In these calculus-based classes you cover the mathematical base for univariate and multivariate probability and statistics.

Career Opportunities

As an Actuarial Science major, you will have the opportunity to go into industry or to go to graduate school before entering your career. Our graduates not only are readily accepted in most graduate schools, but also are eagerly recruited. Many graduates place at the top of their respective graduate classes.

The following are some opportunities available to you:

  • Life insurance—actuarial science
  • College teaching—several of our graduates have Ph.D. degrees and are teaching at major universities
  • Statistician—used in quantitative management
  • Government and Industry
  • Computer science
  • Law