Actuarial Science

The Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive education in the principles of mathematics, statistics, and finance essential for the actuarial profession. This program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills and technical knowledge necessary to assess and manage financial risks in various industries including insurance, pension plans, investment, and consulting. Throughout the degree, students engage in coursework that covers core topics such as probability theory, financial mathematics, actuarial models, and risk management techniques, alongside courses in economics, business, and communications to prepare them for real-world applications.

The Actuarial Science program at Calgary emphasizes both practical skills and theoretical understanding, providing students with opportunities for hands-on experience through projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. The curriculum is aligned with the requirements of professional actuarial societies, including the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS), ensuring students are well-prepared for participation in credentialing examinations and professional development.

Students are encouraged to pursue actuarial exams during their undergraduate studies, often completing the first few exams to enhance their employability upon graduation. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning, integrating courses from mathematics, statistics, economics, and business to develop well-rounded professionals capable of analyzing complex data and making informed financial decisions.

Graduates of the Actuarial Science program at the University of Calgary are well-positioned to enter a growing field with diverse career prospects, including roles as actuaries, risk analysts, data scientists, and financial consultants. The university’s strong industry connections and dedicated career services provide students with support in internships and employment opportunities. With its rigorous curriculum, professional preparation, and supportive academic environment, the University of Calgary’s Actuarial Science program prepares students to excel in the dynamic and evolving fields of risk assessment and management.

The Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science at the University of Calgary provides students with a comprehensive education in mathematics, statistics, finance, and economics, essential for a career as an actuary. The program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills and technical knowledge necessary to assess risk, analyze data, and develop financial strategies for insurers, pension funds, investment firms, and other financial institutions. Throughout the program, students take core courses in calculus, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistical methods, which serve as the foundation for advanced actuarial topics.

In addition to technical training, the curriculum emphasizes practical application and professional development. Students learn to use specialized software and modeling tools, preparing them for the technological demands of the profession. The program also includes courses in finance, economics, and business, providing a well-rounded understanding of the financial environment in which actuaries operate.

Students are encouraged to pursue the actuarial credentialing process by taking relevant professional exams offered by organizations such as the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). The university offers academic support and resources to assist students in exam preparation and gaining practical experience through internships and cooperative education placements.

The program promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills, enabling graduates to explain complex concepts to non-specialists and advise organizations on risk management and strategic decision-making. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science are well-prepared for entry-level actuarial positions or to continue their education through postgraduate studies. The University of Calgary’s strong network of industry connections and dedicated faculty members ensure students receive a quality education aligned with current industry standards.

The Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science at the University of Calgary requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare them for careers in actuarial science, insurance, finance, and risk management. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, economics, and business principles, alongside specialized courses in actuarial models and practices.

Students typically begin with core courses in calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory to develop quantitative skills essential for actuarial work. These foundational courses are complemented by courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics to provide a solid understanding of economic environments. As students progress, they undertake more advanced classes in statistics, data analysis, and financial mathematics, focusing on modeling techniques, risk assessment, and the valuation of financial instruments.

The curriculum includes specialized actuarial courses such as Actuarial Models, Life Contingencies, Loss Models, and Pension and Retirement Benefits. To satisfy degree requirements, students must also complete a series of University of Calgary foundational courses, as well as electives in related fields such as computer science and business. Practical experience is encouraged through internships or cooperative education opportunities.

Students are expected to prepare for the actuarial professional exams administered by organizations like the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). The program supports exam preparation and offers mentorship from faculty members with actuarial credentials. To graduate, students must meet the program’s academic standards, including maintaining a minimum GPA, completing all required courses, and fulfilling any additional thesis or project requirements as determined by the faculty.

Overall, the program aims to equip graduates with the technical expertise and analytical skills necessary to excel in the actuarial profession, providing a pathway toward fulfilling the credentialing requirements for professional actuarial bodies and a successful career in the field.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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The University of Calgary offers various financial assistance options for students pursuing the Actuarial Science program. Incoming students can access entrance scholarships based on academic excellence, including the President's Virtual Scholarship and other faculty-specific awards. Continuing students are eligible for a range of scholarships, bursaries, and awards that recognize academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Graduate students may qualify for teaching and research assistantships, which provide monetary support alongside practical experience. The university also participates in provincial and national loan programs, such as Canada Student Loans and Alberta Student Aid, which provide low-interest loans and grants to eligible students. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including private scholarships and employer-sponsored education programs, to supplement their financial resources. Payment plans are available to help students manage tuition fees over the academic year, providing flexibility for budgeting. The university's Financial Aid and Scholarships Office offers counseling and resources to assist students in navigating application procedures and understanding eligibility criteria. Additionally, some programs and courses may have specific funding opportunities linked to cooperative education or industry partnerships, offering relevant work placement stipends. International students can access scholarships designed specifically for international entrants, along with work permit options that permit part-time employment during studies. Overall, the University of Calgary is committed to supporting its students financially through a comprehensive suite of awards, loans, work opportunities, and advising services, aiming to reduce financial barriers and promote access to higher education in the field of actuarial science.

The Actuarial Science program at the University of Calgary is designed to prepare students for a career in this specialized field of mathematics and finance. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential topics such as probability, statistics, financial mathematics, risk theory, and actuarial modeling. Students are introduced to the principles and practices used by actuaries in various industries, including insurance, pension plans, and investment management. The curriculum is uniquely structured to align with the requirements of actuarial professional societies, such as the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA), ensuring graduates are well-prepared to take actuarial exams.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, critical for assessing and managing financial risks. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical decision making and professionalism, which are vital attributes in the actuarial profession. Practical experience is incorporated through internships, co-op placements, and project work, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. The program often collaborates with industry partners and offers networking events to connect students with potential employers.

Students enrolled in the Actuarial Science program benefit from access to modern facilities and faculty members with extensive industry experience. The University of Calgary's location provides students with access to a thriving financial sector, facilitating internships and employment opportunities. The program is suitable for students with strong mathematical abilities, a keen interest in finance, and a desire to work in a dynamic, evolving industry. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue professional actuarial certifications and are often employed immediately upon graduation in roles such as actuarial analysts, risk analysts, or financial consultants. The University of Calgary continually updates the curriculum to reflect changes in the industry and the evolving regulatory environment, ensuring students receive a relevant and rigorous education in actuarial science.