Actuarial Science Certificate Program Overview
The Actuarial Science Certificate is designed for people who have completed or almost completed a bachelor's degree, typically with at least a minor in mathematics from an accredited institution and who would like to complete courses to prepare them for the actuarial profession. The curriculum allows students to complete the Society of Actuaries' and Casualty Actuarial Society's Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) requirements and prepares students for the professional actuarial exams in probability and financial mathematics.
How Do I Know if This Program Is Right for Me?
Our program, recognized by the Society of Actuaries, offers a comprehensive curriculum covering essential areas such as accounting, economics, mathematics and risk management. With a strong emphasis on mathematics, this certificate is ideal for students with a solid foundation in math who aspire to excel in the field of actuarial science. By completing this certificate, you not only prepare for professional actuarial exams but also fulfill requirements necessary to advance in esteemed actuarial societies, setting a strong foundation for a successful career in actuarial science.
Interested in a four-year degree, check out our Actuarial Science Bachelor's Program.
Curriculum
Required Courses
| Course # | Title | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MATH 320 | Financial Mathematics | 3 | MATH 223, 305 |
| MATH 341 | Applied Regression Analysis | 3 | MATH 108 or 318 |
| ACCT 201 | Financial Accounting | 3 | None |
Plus an additional 12 credit hours in two of the three sequences–probability, economics or finance.
For more information about the curriculum, view the Academic Catalog.
| Course # | Title | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MATH 317 | Probability | 3 | MATH 223, 250; 202 or 206 |
| MATH 318 | Mathematical Statistics | 3 | MATH 250, 305, 317 |
| Course # | Title | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECON 232 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3 | None |
| ECON 233 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 | None |
| Course # | Title | Credit Hours | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIN 228 | Financial Management | 3 | ACCT 201 |
| FIN 329 | Intermediate Financial Management | 3 | FIN 228 |
Applicants must complete or have a plan to complete the following prerequisite courses to be admitted into the Actuarial Science Certificate Program:
- Math 108: Introductory Statistics or Math 318: Mathematical Statistics or equivalent (if not planning to complete the Probability Sequence)
- Math 205: Calculus I or equivalent
- Math 206: Calculus II or equivalent
- Math 223: Discrete Mathematics I or equivalent
- Math 250: Mathematical Proof or equivalent (if planning to complete the Probability Sequence)
- Math 305: Calculus III or equivalent
Can You Give Me a Glimpse of My Future?
An actuary is a financial professional who specializes in assessing and managing risk. They use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze data and evaluate the financial implications of uncertain future events, such as accidents, natural disasters, or investment risks.
The median annual salary for actuaries was $120,000 in 2023. The expected growth rate in employment is 22% through 2033, much faster than the average 5% growth rate for all occupations. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Actuaries work in various industries, including insurance, pensions, healthcare and finance, where they help organizations make informed decisions by designing insurance policies, pension plans and investment strategies to minimize financial losses and maximize profitability. They play a critical role in ensuring the financial stability and security of individuals, businesses and governments by providing valuable insights into managing risks effectively.
Employers of Recent Graduates:
- Aubrey Curtis, ’22, actuarial technician at Encova Insurance
- Ryan Whitaker, ’22, actuarial rotation program associate at Nationwide Insurance
- Andrew Villers, ’22, assurance specialist at BDO USA
- Alec Baldosser, ’20, credit analyst at Park National Bank
- Dalton Skerlec, ’20, software developer at Medical Mutual
- Tyler Tokos, ’20, financial analyst at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.