Actuarial Science Major

Goal 1: Students will master the quantitative and analytical skills required to obtain an entry-level position in the actuarial science profession.

Outcome 1.1: Students will be able to apply and use the fundamental tools of calculus to solve applied and theoretical mathematical problems.

Outcome 1.2: Students will be able to demonstrate mastery of the computational skills used in probability theory as well as the use of discrete and continuous probability distributions to model various applications in the natural sciences, finance, insurance and the social sciences.

Outcome 1.3: Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of concepts of financial mathematics and how these concepts are applied in the calculation of present and accumulated values of cash flows.

Goal 2: Students will have the knowledge to qualify for professional credentials awarded by the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuary Society and gain background relevant to the actuarial profession.

Outcome 2.1: Students will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of macro and micro economics, accounting, financial methods and statistics and obtain Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) credit from professional actuarial societies.  Students will also learn material relevant to actuarial science not covered by VEE.

Outcome 2.2: Students will know the content covered in the first two professional actuarial examinations.  

Goal 3: Students will develop strong communication and critical thinking skills.

Outcome 3.1: Students will be able to prepare written reports and deliver oral presentations that integrate the best practices of technical writing, business and statistical terminology and critical analysis.

Goal 4: Students will attain a high level of proficiency in research methodology and computer technology.

Outcome 4.1: Students will be able to conduct quantitative research, i.e. select appropriate statistical methodology, use computer software, and make inferences and predictions using data from applications in finance, economics and other disciplines.

Outcome 4.2: Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in the use of computer software such as EXCEL, statistical software and databases.  Students will also be able to do basic computer programming.

The traditional undergraduate programs includes a minimum of 120 credits distributed across three components: A General Education component divided into Signature Courses, Variable Courses, and an Integrative Learning requirement; a Major and Divisional component; and Free Electives. In addition to course requirements as specified in each area, students must complete one certified course in each of the following overlay areas¹:

1. Diversity, Globalization or Non-western Area Studies,
2. Ethics Intensive
3. Writing Intensive, and
4. Diversity

¹

Overlay requirements are part of the 120 credit requirements

General Education Signature Courses

See this page about Signature courses. 

General Education Variable Courses

See this page about Variable courses. Six to Nine courses

General Education Overlays

See this page about Overlays.

General Education Integrative Learning Component

See this page about Integrative Learning Component. Three courses:

Business Foundation 

Ten courses, including:

¹

Accounting Majors can choose between ACC 423 and BUS BUS 495

Note: A grade of B- or better in FIN 225 is required to receive VEE credit from the SOA or CAS.

Major Requirements