Mathematics — Special Interest Area: Actuarial Science

The Mathematics program with a Special Interest Area in Actuarial Science at Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive education in mathematical principles, combined with specialized training in the field of actuarial science. This program is designed to prepare students for a successful career in the insurance, finance, and risk management industries by equipping them with the quantitative skills and industry knowledge necessary for actuarial work. Students will engage in coursework covering calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistics, financial mathematics, and specialized actuarial topics such as risk theory, models for insurance and pension plans, and actuarial modeling techniques. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, including exposure to industry-standard software and statistical tools frequently used by actuaries. Students are encouraged to develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are critical in interpreting data and making informed decisions in real-world scenarios. The curriculum is aligned with the requirements of various actuarial certification exams administered by professional organizations like SOA and CAS, providing a pathway for students to pursue these credentials post-graduation. In addition to rigorous coursework, students have opportunities for internships and cooperative education experiences that foster real-world understanding and industry connections. Slippery Rock University commits to preparing graduates for successful careers in actuarial science, offering dedicated faculty mentorship and resources to support student achievement. The program's goal is to produce well-rounded professionals capable of applying mathematical methods to evaluate and manage risk, contributing to industries that rely heavily on actuarial expertise. With a strong foundation in mathematics and specialized training in actuarial science, graduates will be well-positioned to pursue advanced degrees or enter the actuarial profession directly, making meaningful contributions to the sectors they serve.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Major Requirements - Credits: 60

PLEASE SEE CURRICULUM GUIDES AND ACADEMIC ADVISER FOR PROGRAM SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS.

Mathematics Core Courses - Credits: 33

Minimum grade of C required in MATH 131, 230, and 235

• MATH 131 - Discrete Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 230 - Calculus II Credits: 4
• MATH 231 - Calculus III Credits: 4
• MATH 235 - Modern Concepts of Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 240 - Linear Algebra and Differential Equations Credits: 3
• MATH 301 - Differential Equations I Credits: 3
• MATH 309 - Linear Algebra Credits: 3
• MATH 313 - Introductory Analysis I Credits: 3
• MATH 325 - Abstract Algebra I Credits: 3
• MATH 352 - Mathematical Statistics I Credits: 3
• MATH 491 - Mathematics Seminar Credits: 1

Special Interest Area Mathematics Courses - Credits: 6

MATH 353 is required. Choose one other course from the following:

• MATH 353 - Mathematical Statistics II Credits: 3 REQUIRED
• MATH 311 - Introduction to Operations Research Credits: 3
• MATH 315 - Numerical Mathematics Credits: 3
• MATH 335 - Mathematical Modeling Credits: 3
• MATH 354 - Mathematical Statistics III Credits: 3

Mathematics Sequences - Credits: 6-7

Two sequences required. At least one from MATH 313-314 or MATH 325-326

• MATH 301 - Differential Equations I Credits: 3

• AND

• MATH 302 - Differential Equations II Credits: 3
• MATH 313 - Introductory Analysis I Credits: 3

• AND

• MATH 314 - Introductory Analysis II Credits: 3
• MATH 325 - Abstract Algebra I Credits: 3

• AND

• MATH 326 - Abstract Algebra II Credits: 3
• MATH 352 - Mathematical Statistics I Credits: 3

• AND

• MATH 353 - Mathematical Statistics II Credits: 3

Special Interest Area Interdisciplinary Courses - Credits: 15

ECON 201 and 202, and MATH 280 are required. Choose 2 additional courses from the following:

• ECON 201 - Principles of Macroeconomics Credits: 3 REQUIRED
• ECON 202 - Principles of Microeconomics Credits: 3 REQUIRED
• MATH 280 - Theory of Interest Credits: 3 REQUIRED
• ACCT 209 - Financial Accounting Credits: 3
• ACCT 210 - Managerial Accounting Credits: 3
• ECON 302 - Microeconomic Analysis Credits: 3
• ECON 312 - Critical Choices in Health Care Policy Credits: 3
• ECON 318 - Intermediate Statistical Analysis Credits: 3
• FIN 320 - Managerial Finance Credits: 3
• FIN 321 - Investments Credits: 3
• FIN 323 - Financial Markets and Institutions Credits: 3
• FIN 326 - Intermediate Corporate Finance Credits: 3
• MATH 252 - Introduction to Statistical Modeling Credits: 3

Competency in an Approved Computer Programming Language

Competency in an approved computer programming language is required.

Mathematics students in the College of Health, Environment and Science must complete the following four courses.

• CHEM 107 - General Chemistry I Credits: 3
• CHEM 111 - General Chemistry I Lab Credits: 1
• MATH 225 - Calculus I Credits: 4
• PHYS 211 - General Physics I/ Lab Credits: 4

Requirements

Slippery Rock University has a strong commitment to student success, and we thoroughly research the academic background of the students who tend to succeed at SRU. We use this information to establish admission guidelines for first year students (new freshmen). We are seeking students who have attained at least a 3.0 GPA at the time of admission, have demonstrated proficiency in college preparatory coursework, and who have average to above average scores on the SAT or ACT. We will accept either test and use the best scores available. Offers of admission for new freshmen from high school may be made as soon as August following their junior year in high school. High school admitted students are required to submit proof of high school graduation in the form of Official Transcripts upon high school graduation.

In order to apply for admission, the following credentials are required:

• Official High School Transcripts, including a 12th Grade class schedule if applicable

• SAT or ACT Scores

• $30.00 application fee

WAIT LIST: Applicants who do not meet the admission guidelines are still encouraged to apply for admission if they are close to our admission guidelines. Such applicants may be placed on a wait list for admission consideration. Students who are placed on a wait list need to understand it is not the same as being denied admission. Wait list status simply means that an applicant's credentials may require a closer review beyond just the quantitative numbers. Offers of admission will be made to wait listed applicants on regular intervals.
Wait listed applicants should strive to improve their grades and/or test scores and re-submit them to the Office of Admissions as soon as is practical after the next marking period or re-test. Periodic review of the wait list will likely begin in November and offers of admission made on a rolling basis. Our goal is to have most of the wait list offers of admission made in March or April. A final round of wait list offers may be made in mid-May on a space available basis. We encourage students to submit additional information if it improves the academic record.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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.

Enroll in the course

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."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

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

The Mathematics program with a Special Interest Area in Actuarial Science at Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in mathematical theories and principles, alongside specialized knowledge relevant to the actuarial profession. The curriculum is designed to equip students with strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, essential for careers in insurance, finance, pension planning, and other fields that require expertise in risk assessment and management. Students study advanced calculus, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistics, which form the core mathematical skills necessary for actuarial work.

In addition to fundamental mathematics courses, the program emphasizes the application of these skills to real-world problems through courses tailored to actuarial science, such as risk management, actuarial modeling, financial mathematics, and health insurance. The program incorporates preparation for professional actuarial exams, with coursework aligned to the requirements of certification bodies like the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). Students are encouraged to gain practical experience through internships, co-op programs, and project work with industry partners, facilitating a smooth transition from academic study to professional employment.

The faculty involved in the program are experienced educators and industry experts, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to the unique needs of students pursuing a career in actuarial science. The university may also offer student organizations, clubs, and seminars focused on actuarial topics, networking opportunities, and professional development sessions. Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue entry-level actuarial positions, pursue advanced degrees, or obtain professional actuarial certifications, thereby supporting their long-term career growth in the actuarial field.

Overall, the Actuarial Science specialization within the Mathematics program at Slippery Rock University aims to produce well-rounded graduates with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in a competitive industry. The combination of rigorous coursework, professional preparation, and experiential learning opportunities makes it an ideal choice for students interested in a dynamic and rewarding career in actuarial science.