The Bachelor of Actuarial Studies (Extension) at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate program designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the actuarial profession. This program provides a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance, combined with specialized actuarial coursework that addresses the principles of risk assessment, financial modeling, and insurance mathematics. Students will engage in a curriculum that emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of quantitative methods to real-world challenges faced by insurance companies, financial institutions, and consulting firms.
The extension component of the program allows students to deepen their understanding of advanced actuarial topics, including stochastic processes, financial derivatives, and enterprise risk management. Throughout their studies, students will benefit from practical learning experiences such as industry projects, internships, and exposure to the latest actuarial software and data analysis tools. The program is designed to prepare graduates not only for the actuarial qualification examinations but also to excel in roles that require sophisticated quantitative analysis and strategic decision-making.
In addition to technical expertise, the program fosters critical thinking, ethical considerations, and communication skills essential for effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. Students will have access to UNSW’s strong connections with industry partners and professional bodies such as the Actuaries Institute, facilitating networking opportunities and career development support. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to pursue professional actuarial qualifications and thrive in diverse sectors including insurance, superannuation, investment management, and risk consulting.
The UNSW Bachelor of Actuarial Studies (Extension) is ideal for students with a passion for mathematics and finance, a keen interest in problem-solving, and a desire to make a meaningful impact through risk analysis and financial strategy. With its rigorous curriculum and industry engagement, this program offers a pathway to a dynamic and rewarding career in the ever-evolving field of actuarial science.
This Application is fully accredited by the Actuaries Institute in Australia for both Part I and Part II subjects and recognised for exemptions by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (UK) professional examinations for Its Core Technical subjects.
- A recognised bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) with a credit average (65 percent or higher) as determined by the UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Calculator
- And also a major (at the very least seven lessons ) in actuarial studies
- Or a leading (at the very least seven lessons ) in econometrics
- Or a leading (at the very least seven courses) in statistics or mathematics. Applicants are expected to possess a mathematical background equivalent to a complete year of calculus and linear algebra at first-year university undergraduate degree in above charge grade.
The Actuarial Studies (Extension) program at UNSW Sydney offers a comprehensive financial framework designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Funding for the program primarily comes from a combination of government subsidies, tuition fees paid by students, and potential scholarships available to outstanding applicants or those demonstrating financial need. Tuition fees for the program are set annually and are aligned with university policies and government regulations. International students are subject to different fee structures compared to domestic students, reflecting their tuition rate classifications.
Students enrolled in the Actuarial Studies (Extension) program can access a variety of financial assistance options, including government loans such as FEE-HELP, which allows eligible domestic students to defer tuition payments until after graduation. UNSW also offers numerous scholarships, awards, and bursaries specifically targeted towards students pursuing actuarial or related studies, aiming to reduce financial barriers and promote academic excellence.
Additionally, some students may engage in part-time employment opportunities either through internships sponsored by the university or external organizations associated with the actuarial industry. These employment opportunities not only provide practical experience but also serve as a supplementary source of income, helping students manage the costs associated with their studies. The university occasionally offers financial planning workshops to help students better manage their educational expenses and plan for future financial stability.
UNSW’s investment in high-quality teaching resources, industry partnerships, and career services significantly enhances the employability of graduates, ensuring that students’ educational investments translate into rewarding career paths. Overall, the financial model underpinning the Actuarial Studies (Extension) program emphasizes accessibility, support through government and university schemes, and opportunities for financial planning, all aimed at facilitating student success in a highly competitive profession.
The Actuarial Studies (Extension) program at UNSW Sydney is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of actuarial science, preparing them for professional roles in insurance, superannuation, finance, and related sectors. This program builds upon the foundational Actuarial Studies offerings, offering a more in-depth exploration of actuarial theories, mathematical techniques, and quantitative analysis methods. The curriculum typically encompasses subjects such as risk theory, financial mathematics, statistical modeling, investment science, and financial economics, enabling students to develop a comprehensive understanding of the financial risks faced by organizations and the methods used to evaluate and manage these risks.
Students are engaged in rigorous coursework that combines theoretical concepts with practical applications, often including case studies, computer-based modeling, and real-world problem-solving. The program equips students with critical skills in data analysis, predictive modeling, and the use of specialized actuarial software. Additionally, the program emphasizes professional development, ethical considerations, and effective communication skills necessary for actuarial roles.
Graduates of the Actuarial Studies (Extension) program are well-positioned to sit for actuarial certification exams, such as those administered by the Actuaries Institute of Australia or international bodies like the Society of Actuaries or the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. The university's strong industry connections and dedicated careers service support students in securing internships, work placements, and employment opportunities after graduation. Overall, this program aims to produce highly competent, analytical, and adaptable professionals who can meet the complex challenges of the financial risk industry globally.