Actuarial Science

Overview

Saint Joseph's University's actuarial science major provides students with a strong analytical foundation and powerful insights into how to manage risk. The program includes courses in actuarial science, mathematics, statistics and data science, economics, finance and accounting, leading to a bachelor of science degree in actuarial science.

Faculty members in the actuarial science program come to the classroom with strong professional experience and provide valuable business insight. By senior year, students will be prepared to take the first three tests in a series of professional actuarial exams and can take courses for at least two more actuarial exams. The major also ensures that students can receive credit in the three areas covered by Validation by Educational Experience (economics, accounting and finance, and mathematical statistics), which is part of the professional certification process for actuaries.

Combining coursework from both the College of Arts & Sciences and the Haub School of Business, the curriculum is designed to ensure you will be fully equipped to succeed as an actuary. As an actuarial science major, you will also have the opportunity to participate in the shadow program, which allows you to follow a working actuary for a day to gain first-hand experience in the challenges of the field. Paid internships at major insurance companies and consulting firms are available to students who qualify.

Another strong component of the program is the student-run actuarial science club, which sponsors colloquia and presentations by prominent actuarial executives in the region. It provides peer mentoring and networking opportunities as well as support in the key areas of exam preparation, resume writing, career fair prep and interview techniques.

An industry advisory board composed of chief actuaries and senior executives of regional and national insurers, consulting firms and industry rating organizations facilitates internship and shadowing opportunities for qualified students.

The actuary profession is consistently rated as a top job in America. Graduates of the program often receive multiple job offers and work as successful actuaries, financial managers, statisticians and underwriters.