Actuarial Science, BS
Program Description
Actuarial science students learn to use tools from mathematics, statistics and finance to measure the impact of risk in order to improve forecasting and decision-making.
The BS degree program in actuarial science provides students with the preparation necessary for the required professional actuarial credentialing exams offered by the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuarial Society.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.
Required Courses (Major Map)
What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: No
- First Required Math Course: MAT 270 - Calculus w/Analytic Geometry I
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Math Intensity:
Substantial
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman Transfer International Readmission
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
Current ASU students wishing to change their major to actuarial science should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A"), have completed at least MAT 265 Calculus for Engineers I or MAT 270 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I and CIS 105 Computer Applications and Information Technology (or CSE 100 or CSE 110), and have earned a "B" grade or better in all critical classes they have already completed.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:
Actuarial Science, MS
Do you want to make the most of your talents in math and predictive analysis? Become an expert in finding ways to assess, calculate and manage risk, and participate in high-level business decision-making.
Website | Locations: TEMPE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
Risk is a part of daily life and wherever there is risk, there are opportunities for actuarial intervention. Many actuaries work with insurance companies to calculate premiums, determine reserves needed to ensure an organization's financial health and to ensure organizations conform to stringent, complex legal mandates. Others help companies to establish retirement plans or are employed as consultants.
Graduates with a BS in actuarial science possess skills that are transferable to any industry and any organization that requires risk modeling and management, including:
- colleges and universities
- consulting firms
- energy, such as utilities, oil and gas
- environment (on issues such as climate change and the financial impact or risk of extreme events)
- financial services, such as banking and investment management
- government agencies such as Social Security, the Department of Labor and Medicare (to manage social programs and to develop regulations and legislation)
- insurance companies
- retirement and pensions
- transportation, such as shipping and air travel
They can also apply the advanced problem-solving skills learned in the actuarial science undergraduate program to a variety of other professional careers, including:
- analysts
- business operations specialists
- consultants
- teachers
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Actuary (Financial Risk Analyst)
- Growth: 23.2%
- Median Salary*: $113,990
Business Intelligence Analyst
- Growth: 35.2%
- Median Salary*: $103,500
Compliance Manager
- Growth: 3.3%
- Median Salary*: $128,620
Economist
- Growth: 6.3%
- Median Salary*: $113,940
Financial Analyst
- Growth: 7.6%
- Median Salary*: $95,080
Insurance Claims Investigator
- Growth: -3.1%
- Median Salary*: $72,230
Insurance Underwriter
- Growth: -2.4%
- Median Salary*: $76,230
Investment Fund Manager
- Growth: 16.0%
- Median Salary*: $139,790
Loan Officer
- Growth: 2.9%
- Median Salary*: $65,740
Statistician
- Growth: 31.6%
- Median Salary*: $98,920
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Global Opportunities
Global Experience
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly.