Actuarial Science Degree

Actuarial science can be described as the application of mathematical and statistical methods to assess financial risks. The importance of actuarial science has grown in recent years. Organizations are investing heavily in risk reduction and risk management to help boost profitability and market share. This discipline is mostly applied in the insurance industry, but can also be seen in other industries and professions. The field itself is interrelated to many other fields such as economics, computer programming, probability, and statistics.
The demand for actuaries is continuing to grow.  According to Business Insider, actuaries have the best jobs in USA. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has also predicted a 26% growth rate for this profession which is faster than average. The positive employment prospects are attracting many individuals towards this career.

If you have a knack for numbers and enjoy challenges, you can prepare yourself for a career as an actuary by polishing your skills and earning a degree in actuarial science. There are a number of accredited colleges offering actuarial science programs. Students can pursue actuarial science major at bachelor, master, and doctorate level.

Bachelor Degree in Actuarial Science

This is an undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for entry-level positions. The program has a duration of four years and is offered both on-campus and online by actuarial science colleges. Students who have completed high school are eligible for enrollment in this program, given that they fulfill all other admission requirements as well.

Students will cover a wide range of courses that will help develop mathematical and statistical skills. During the initial phase of the program, students will learn about the fundamental concepts of actuarial sciences, its history, and current use in industries. Further in the program, the coursework will highlight statistical models and risk factors. Students will learn how to identify risk using different statistical techniques. Although a large portion of the curriculum is theory-based, a few courses are practice-oriented. Here are a few important topics covered in the degree program:

• Probability
• Statistical inference
• Actuarial methods
• Linear regression
• Time series models
• Corporate finance
• Quantitative risk management

Master Degree in Actuarial Science

This is a two-year graduate degree. It is designed to provide students with advanced skill and in-depth knowledge of actuarial science. Students will learn how to apply relevant theories to insurance pricing and relevant areas. The coursework will entail a number of theoretical and practical subjects. Some colleges may also include case-studies, research projects, and internships in the curriculum. Here are a few important subjects covered in the program:

• Mathematical statistics
• Quantitative methods for actuaries
• Mathematics of finance
• Loss distributions
• Regression and forecasting
• Credibility and survival analysis
• Life contingencies

Doctorate in Actuarial Science

This is the highest level of qualification students can earn in the field of actuarial science. It is intended for students who already have a fundamental understanding of the science and are interested in research. The program can take anywhere from four to eight years to complete, depending upon the university and the students’ pace.
The curriculum is distinctly divided into theory-based learning, research and dissertation. During classroom-based learning, students will undergo a thorough study of the courses such as the following:

• Numerical analysis and approximation theory
• Real analysis
• Risk theory
• Complex analysis

PhD candidates may have to pass a few qualifying examinations and an oral exam. They must also present a topic for research and dissertation. Under the supervision of an instructor, candidates must compile and write a dissertation.

• Students will acquire a detailed understanding of mathematics and statistics
• Students will learn how to successfully conduct actuarial calculations
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of financial mathematics, derivatives, and actuarial practices
• Understand what practices are used in the development of insurance products
• Use various computer applications and tools for analyzing financial data

Did you know that students can also pursue an online actuarial science degree? The increasing trend of online learning has pushed many renowned universities to add this academic discipline to their online program offerings. This mode of learning has enabled many professionals to pursue their academic goals conveniently without sacrificing either jobs or other commitments. Videos, online lectures, slideshows, and classroom conferencing enable students to cover the coursework online.

• Low costs – Students do not have to worry about costs related to travelling or textbooks, only a computer and an internet connection are needed to study online.
• Flexibility – Students can study from any location at any time.
• Self-paced – The coursework is self-paced, allowing students to study according to their own convenience without feeling pressured.

The enrollment criteria will vary from college to college. If you plan to enroll in an undergraduate degree, you must have completed your high school education with satisfactory scores. On the other hand, a bachelor and master degrees will be needed to qualify for admission in a doctorate-level degree. Other requirements may include:

• Letters of recommendation
• Meeting a minimum CGPA requirement
• Submitting an admission fee

Some schools may also require applicants to write a personal essay or pass an entrance examination.

With an actuarial science degree, there are many industries to choose from. For example, you can apply for a position in insurance companies, banking institutions, government offices, and accounting firms. Most actuaries begin their career as trainees, working with experienced professionals. Through on-the-job training, trainees can acquire skill and professional exposure that can help take their career to the next level. Some basic duties that fall within the job description of an actuary are:

• Gathering and compiling statistical data
• Analyzing statistical data
• Applying statistical tests and methods to estimate risk
• Prepare reports, charts, and tables

According to the BLS, actuaries made a median annual income of $93,680 in 2012. The actuarial science salary may be slightly lower in the initial phase of the career. Salary is influenced by factors such as organization, state, and qualification.
With a few years of work experience in the field, actuaries may qualify for professional certification. The Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) and the Society of Actuaries (SOA) are two main credentialing organizations. Individuals will have to meet the certification requirements and pass examinations to gain a full professional status.
The career prospects for actuaries are positive in today’s economy, with many new job openings expected. Interested individuals can look forward to growth and can excel in this career.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Actuarial Science Degree?

Educational institutes such as Columbia University and University of Iowa are offering Actuarial Science Degrees. Students can enroll in a 4-year long Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Actuarial Science, a 1 to 2 year long Master of Science (M.S) in Actuarial Science, or a combined B.S/M.S degree in Actuarial Science which takes 4 to 5 years to complete. Students can also pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Actuarial Science, Insurance and Risk Management, that can be completed within 3 to 5 years.

What Are the Requirements to Complete an Actuarial Science Degree?

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Actuarial Science have to complete 120 units and those enrolled in the Master of Science (M.S) in Actuarial Sciences have to complete around 36 to 43 credit hours. They have to study a range of modules such as Applied Linear Algebra, Applied Statistics, Multivariable Calculus, Financial Mathematics, Financial Accounting, Business Finance and Statistical Computing. 

How Much Can I Make after Completing an Actuarial Science Degree?

An Actuarial Science Degree enables graduates to develop the skills needed to kick start a professional career in Risk Management or Insurance. The data published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that Actuaries earn a decent salary –the annual median pay for these professionals was $102,880 in 2018. The employment of these professionals is predicted to increase by 20% from 2018 to 2028.