Actuarial Science

The Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science at the University of Kent offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a successful career in the actuarial profession. This programme combines a solid foundation in mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance with practical skills and industry-specific knowledge essential for assessing risk and making data-driven decisions in various sectors such as insurance, pensions, and financial services. Throughout the course, students will explore key topics including probability theory, financial mathematics, life insurance, pension mathematics, and risk management. The curriculum is carefully structured to meet the requirements of professional actuarial examinations, providing students with the necessary qualifications to pursue membership of professional bodies such as the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries or the Society of Actuaries.

The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and applied skills. Students engage in real-world case studies and projects that enhance their analytical and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, the course offers opportunities for industry placements and internships, giving students practical experience and valuable insights into the actuarial profession. The university's location and links with financial institutions and insurance companies provide excellent networking opportunities and access to industry expertise.

By the end of the programme, graduates will possess a strong quantitative skill set, critical thinking abilities, and a thorough understanding of financial and risk management principles. This prepares them for entry into the actuarial workforce or for further professional certification and postgraduate study. The degree combines academic excellence with practical relevance, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed and adapt in a dynamic and evolving industry.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

• MA309 - Business Economics
• MA315 - Financial Mathematics
• MA319 - Probability and Statistics for Actuarial Science
• MA321 - Calculus and Mathematical Modelling
• MA322 - Proofs and Numbers
• MA326 - Matrices and Computing
• WSHOP097 - Mathematics Support Classes
• WSHOPMA1 - Core Stage 1 Tutorial Support

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

• MA639 - Time Series Modelling and Simulation
• MA501 - Statistics for Insurance
• MA527 - Corporate Finance for Actuaries
• MA528 - Financial Reports and their Analysis
• MA529 - Probability and Statistics for Actuarial Science 2
• MA516 - Contingencies 1
• MA552 - Analysis
• MA553 - Linear Algebra

Possible modules may include:

• MA636 - Stochastic Processes
• MA525 - Survival Models
• MA533 - Contingencies 2
• MA535 - Portfolio Theory and Asset Pricing Models
• MA537 - Mathematics of Financial Derivatives
• MA539 - Financial Modelling
• MA509 - Actuarial Practice

Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• AAA at A level including Mathematics grade A including the core syllabus of Pure Mathematics. (Use of Maths is not accepted.) Only one General Studies and Critical Thinking can be accepted against the requirements

• The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

• The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• IB Diploma 34 points overall or 17 points at HL inc 6 in HL Mathematics.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The Actuarial Science program at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a career in the actuarial profession. This program combines core mathematical and statistical techniques with applied knowledge in finance, economics, and risk management. Throughout the course, students develop a strong foundation in probability, statistics, financial mathematics, and modeling, which are critical for assessing and managing risk in various sectors such as insurance, pensions, and investment.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for actuarial exams and professional work environments. Students have opportunities to engage with real-world data and case studies, fostering analytical and problem-solving skills. The program also offers modules on topics such as economic principles, business law, and financial reporting, providing a rounded education that aligns with professional actuarial standards.

In addition to rigorous academic training, the University of Kent supports students through professional development activities, including placement opportunities, mentorship programs, and collaborations with industry partners. These experiences aim to enhance employability and facilitate the transition from academia to industry. The university encourages students to pursue actuarial certifications from recognized bodies such as the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries in the UK, which are integral to progressing in the actuarial profession.

The Actuarial Science program at the University of Kent is suitable for students who possess strong mathematical abilities, logical reasoning, and an interest in finance and risk assessment. Graduates of the program can expect to find employment in risk management, insurance companies, pension funds, financial services, and consulting firms. The program's flexible structure and supportive learning environment allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests within the broader field of actuarial science, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to build a successful career in this dynamic and growing industry.