Mathematics — Actuarial

Program Description: Mathematics — Actuarial at the University of Montreal

The Mathematics — Actuarial program at the University of Montreal is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a career in actuarial science, risk management, and related fields. This program provides students with a strong foundation in advanced mathematics, probability theory, statistics, and financial mathematics, equipping them with the analytical and quantitative skills necessary to evaluate and manage financial risks in insurance, pension funds, and other financial institutions. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-versed in modeling techniques, risk assessment methodologies, and the regulatory environment governing the insurance and finance sectors.

Throughout the program, students undertake coursework in calculus, linear algebra, higher mathematics, probability, and statistics, along with specialized actuarial courses covering life contingencies, risk theory, financial mathematics, and actuarial modeling. The curriculum also includes courses on economics, law, and ethics to provide a well-rounded education aligned with professional standards. The program is structured to prepare students for the actuarial examinations required for professional certification by recognized bodies such as the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA) and the Society of Actuaries (SOA).

In addition to classroom instruction, students benefit from practical training opportunities, including internships and collaborative projects with industry partners, that enhance their understanding of real-world applications. The faculty comprises experienced professors and industry professionals dedicated to providing high-quality education and mentorship. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue professional actuarial credentials and enter the workforce with a solid grounding in quantitative analysis, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making.

The University of Montreal’s Mathematics — Actuarial program emphasizes research and innovation, encouraging students to engage with current challenges facing the financial and insurance industries. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skill-building, the program aims to develop competent, ethical, and adaptable professionals ready to meet the demands of an evolving economic landscape. Whether students aspire to work as actuaries, risk analysts, financial consultants, or pursue advanced studies, this program provides the essential training and accreditation pathways necessary for a successful career in actuarial science and financial risk management.

The Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics — Actuarial at the University of Montreal offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for a successful career in the actuarial field. This program combines strong foundational knowledge in mathematics with specialized coursework in actuarial sciences, insurance, risk management, finance, and economics, equipping graduates with the analytical and quantitative skills required by the industry.

Throughout the program, students explore core mathematical concepts such as calculus, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistics, which serve as the building blocks for actuarial applications. Advanced courses delve into actuarial modeling, life insurance mathematics, pension mathematics, health insurance, and general insurance mathematics, providing a thorough understanding of the models used in assessing and managing risk. The curriculum also includes coursework in financial mathematics, including interest theory and derivatives, which are essential for designing and pricing insurance products and financial instruments.

In addition to theoretical coursework, students gain practical experience through case studies, problem-solving exercises, and software simulations used in the industry. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving skills, preparing students to interpret complex data and make informed decisions in uncertain environments.

The program is designed in close collaboration with the actuarial profession, incorporating preparation for the relevant professional exams administered by organizations such as the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA) and the Society of Actuaries (SOA). Students are encouraged to engage in internships and cooperative education opportunities to acquire real-world experience and establish professional networks.

Graduates of the Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics — Actuarial at the University of Montreal are well-equipped to pursue careers as actuaries in insurance companies, consulting firms, pension funds, or governmental agencies. Many students continue their education through master's programs in actuarial science, finance, or related fields to further enhance their expertise and career prospects. The program’s rigorous academic training, combined with practical experience and professional preparation, ensures students are ready to meet the challenges of the dynamic and ever-evolving actuarial industry.

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics — Actuarial at the University of Montreal requires students to complete a well-rounded curriculum combining core mathematics courses with specialized actuarial science subjects. The program begins with foundational courses in calculus, linear algebra, and discrete mathematics to establish essential analytical skills. Students then advance to more specialized topics such as probability theory, mathematical statistics, and financial mathematics, which are fundamental to actuarial reasoning and risk assessment.

A key component of the program involves coursework in actuarial models, statistics, and economics to prepare students for professional actuarial exams. These courses include actuarial mathematics, life insurance mathematics, pension mathematics, and risk theory. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, incorporating relevant software tools and data analysis techniques used in the industry.

To ensure comprehensive preparation, students participate in seminars and projects that simulate real-world actuarial problems, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills. The program also encourages internships or cooperative education opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience in actuarial firms or financial institutions.

Graduates are expected to meet the academic requirements necessary to pursue professional certifications with actuarial organizations, such as the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA) and the Society of Actuaries (SOA). Throughout their studies, students are advised to progressively build their quantitative and analytical competencies while developing a strong ethical foundation necessary for responsible actuarial practice.

In addition, the program promotes interdisciplinary learning by integrating courses in economics, finance, and computer science, reflecting the multifaceted nature of actuarial work. By the end of the program, students should be capable of applying advanced mathematical techniques to evaluate financial risks, model insurance scenarios, and contribute to the strategic decision-making processes within financial organizations. The program duration is typically three to four years, culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree that qualifies graduates for entry-level positions in the actuarial field or for further graduate studies in related disciplines.

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 Montreal offers various financial aid options for students enrolled in the Mathematics — Actuarial program. Undergraduate students can access federal and provincial government loans and grants, such as the Canada Student Loans Program and the Québec loans and bursaries, which provide financial assistance based on demonstrated need. Additionally, the university offers internal scholarships and awards to eligible students, which may be based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. These scholarships aim to support students in reducing their financial burden and promoting academic excellence. Students are encouraged to complete the appropriate financial aid application forms early to ensure eligibility for these awards. Apart from government and institutional aid, students may seek external scholarships from private foundations, industry organizations, or professional associations related to actuarial sciences. Part-time work opportunities are also available on campus, allowing students to gain work experience while supporting their studies financially. The university’s financial aid services provide personalized guidance to help students navigate the application process and identify suitable funding sources. It is recommended to regularly review the university’s official website and contact the financial aid office for the latest updates on available programs, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Combining these resources can significantly assist students in managing the costs associated with pursuing a Mathematics — Actuarial degree at the university.

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a specialization in Actuarial Sciences at the University of Montreal offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for careers in insurance, finance, and risk management. The program covers fundamental areas of mathematics, including calculus, linear algebra, probability, and statistics, providing a strong theoretical foundation. Additionally, it incorporates specialized courses in actuarial science such as risk theory, financial mathematics, and pension mathematics, equipping students with the quantitative tools necessary to evaluate and manage financial risks.

The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical and problem-solving skills, essential for success in actuarial roles. Students gain practical experience through case studies, projects, and sometimes internships, which facilitate the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program also prepares students to pursue professional actuarial certifications by aligning some coursework with the requirements of actuarial exam bodies, such as the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).

Faculty members involved in the program are recognized experts in their fields, contributing to research and maintaining strong links with industry partners. The university’s location in Montreal provides students with access to vibrant financial and insurance sectors, offering opportunities for networking and employment after graduation. The program encourages bilingual proficiency in French and English, reflecting the linguistic landscape of the professional environment.

Graduates of this program are equipped to enter various roles, including actuarial analyst, risk analyst, data analyst, and financial advisor. They are also prepared to continue their education by pursuing master's degrees in actuarial science, financial mathematics, or related disciplines. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that students not only acquire technical expertise but also develop the soft skills needed for effective communication and teamwork in professional settings. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics — Actuarial at the University of Montreal aims to produce competent and ethically responsible professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the actuarial industry.