online phd actuarial science

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

Program of Actuarial and Risk Management Sciences

Phd in mathematics – concentration in actuarial science and risk analytics.

This PhD concentration is intended for students with strong quantitative skills who want to acquire advanced analytical tools for academic careers and research and development careers  in insurance, consulting, investment, pension, healthcare, banking and financial services .

The University of Illinois is an ideal place for education and research in actuarial, financial and risk management, due to its well-established system of interdisciplinary collaborations among various units. Highlights of the University’s achievements in these areas can be found  here . Based in the renowned Department of Mathematics, this program offers a unique blend of a world-class rigorous mathematical education with practical research and professional training in actuarial science, quantitative finance and risk analytics. Read more at our  poster for graduate studies in actuarial science and risk management .

PhD candidates cover most of the material for professional exams, and build on that foundation to receive in-depth education on modern techniques and challenges in the financial, actuarial and risk management professions through coursework, seminars, internships and research. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of actuarial and financial research, PhD candidates are encouraged to broaden their knowledge by taking courses in statistics, finance, insurance, risk management, data analytics, etc.

The Department of Mathematics offers a unique multi-year internship program where PhD candidates are encouraged and supported to receive internship experience in summer breaks during their PhD studies. More information can be found  here . There are also internship opportunities on campus at the  University of Illinois Research Park . Students are also exposed regularly to cutting-edge research development in industry and academia by attending and presenting at the  Actuarial Science and Financial Mathematics Seminar , where a wide range of prominent researchers are invited to speak and visit. In addition, students can participate in the seminar series on  Mathematical Finance, Risk and Uncertainty , jointly organized with the Department of Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering.

Our program offers opportunities for PhD candidates to work in a wide range of research areas, including stochastic analysis in actuarial and financial modeling, quantitative risk management of equity-linked insurance, pension and social security, industry solvency assessment, collective risk theory, Monte Carlo simulations, and more. The  Illinois Risk Lab  also provides a channel for practical research to address emerging problems from industrial partners and professional organizations.

Financial support is offered for up to six years to every student admitted to our PhD program, in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships and corporate-sponsored fellowships. We also provide full reimbursement of exam fees for those who choose to take professional exams. To help students develop communication and networking skills, we also provide financial support for PhD candidate to travel to research summer schools and conferences in related areas.

Admissions Requirements

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in any quantitative field can apply directly to the PhD program. Applicants are expected to demonstrate competence in real analysis, linear algebra, and probability and statistics, either through undergraduate coursework or by means of Graduate Record Examination (GRE) mathematics subject test.

Complete information regarding graduation requirements can be found in the  Guide for Graduate Students in Mathematics . The following list only serves as a summary for prospective students.

PhD candidates in this concentration are required to complete the core courses: MATH 540 (Real Analysis) MATH 561 (Theory of Probability I) MATH 563 (Risk Modeling and Analysis) STAT 510 (Mathematical Statistics I) One additional course from a list of approved core courses for all PhD students.

PhD candidates in this concentration must also demonstrate competence in three additional supporting courses: MATH 564 (Applied Stochastic Processes) STAT 425 (Applied Regression and Design) FIN 591 (Theory of Finance)

and in two of the following actuarial graduate courses: MATH 565 (Actuarial Models for Life Contingencies) MATH 567 (Actuarial Models for Financial Economics) MATH 568 (Actuarial Loss Models)

Although not required, many PhD candidates in the Actuarial Science and Risk Analytics Concentration take elective courses in functional analysis, partial differential equations, linear and nonlinear programming, multivariate analysis, statistical computing, macro and micro economics, portfolio management, predictive modeling, machine learning.

How to Apply

The application process for this concentration is the same as the regular Mathematics PhD program. Detailed instruction as well as general requirements can be found  here . Candidates should clearly identify the Actuarial Science and Risk Analytics Concentration on the application form, and in their personal statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I want to become a practicing actuary, should I consider PhD education in Actuarial Science?

The actuarial profession in North America highly values professional credentials obtained through passing professional exams with credentialing bodies such as the Society of Actuaries and Casualty Actuarial Society. A PhD education in Actuarial Science is not a necessary component for a career path as an actuary. Students who are interested in career paths in traditional actuarial roles should pursue our MS program in Actuarial Science. The PhD concentration prepares students for academic careers and research and development offices/departments in the insurance and financial service industries. For example, a graduate may find a tenure-system position in a university, work as a quantitative reinsurance analyst, a catastrophe modeling analyst, a quantitative strategy researcher in a proprietary trading firm, and so on.

What qualifications are you looking for in admissions?

A typical PhD applicant should have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a quantitative field, including but not limited to pure mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, engineering, quantitative finance, physics, etc. Students should take the GRE General test.

How much do GRE scores get weighted into the application of a prospective student? What other factors weigh the most in an application?

We consider the whole application to find students with sufficient preparation and motivation to succeed in our program. Applicants typically perform strongly on the GRE General exam (80th percentile and above on the quantitative portion, and we like to see good scores on the other sections too). Scores on the GRE Mathematics subject exam (if taken) vary quite widely. Coursework relevant to actuarial science and risk analytics is valuable. 

The transcripts from your bachelor’s and master’s institutions are important. We pay close attention to courses and grades. If you come in with an actuarial or financial mathematics background, we do consider your track record of passing professional exams. However, students in this concentration also come from other quantitative fields.

What funding is available to students ?

All admitted students are offered a full tuition waiver, and a teaching assistantship (the stipend is $20,000 for the academic year; most students get some summer funding too). The funding offer runs for 5 or 6 years, depending on your level of preparation. Fellowship and RA support is available to some continuing students who perform strongly in the program.

How do the requirements for those pursuing the Actuarial Science emphasis differ from those pursuing other fields of study?

Notably, students in the Actuarial Science and Risk Analytics Concentration are not required to take Math 500 Abstract Algebra. Instead, they take Stat 510 Mathematical Statistics I. The full requirements for students in the Concentration are listed  here .

What should be my focus to prepare for this program beyond admissions?

Take as much undergraduate real analysis as possible (called “advanced calculus” at some universities), and tackle the hardest problems you can get your hands on. Learn metric space topology, with normed vector spaces being an important example. Get familiar with spherical coordinates, the divergence theorem (Gauss theorem), and  Green’s first and second identities .

Real analysis lays the foundation for probability, stochastic processes, and differential equations, at the graduate level. If you are strong in real analysis, then you can learn and pass the material in the first year comprehensive courses in a PhD program like ours.

• Program Finder

Master of Science in Actuarial Science Online

Understand the multidisciplinary nature of actuarial science, develop a holistic perspective of risk management, and be on track to earn your associateship designation. 

AT A GLANCE

Location and Start Terms:

• Online, asynchronous program
• ​​​​​​​5 different start terms
• 12–24 months
• 10-week courses

Commitment:

• 10 courses (30 credits)
• Strategies for Success orientation
• $3,015 per 3-credit course

Program Level: Graduate

College/School: College of Arts & Sciences

Certified Faculty

Learn from four certified actuaries on our faculty, including a Fellow with the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) and Associates of both the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the CAS.  

Asynchronous

We offer one of the nation’s only online, asynchronous graduate programs in actuarial science. Learn online and at your own pace. 

Choose from five different start terms and complete each course in 10 weeks. Earn your degree in as little as one year or study part time. 

Small class sizes, personal mentoring, and supportive faculty help tailor your experiences to your career aspirations. 

Connect with Bryant’s vast professional network of acclaimed professors and alumni across major corporations.  

Bryant University is recognized as a Gold Tier institution by the Casualty Actuarial Society’s University Recognition Program — one of just 10 universities in the nation.

Hear From Our Students

“The professors have been very helpful. If there’s anything that you don’t know in terms of advanced actuarial math, they will be there for you. If you come in with an open mind and motivation to get into the field — and you have a base level of knowledge — this will be a fantastic program for you.”

Ryan Drohan ’17, ’24MSAS

Investment Reporting Associate, A-CAP Management

Why earn your MSAS at Bryant?

• Study on your schedule. Bryant offers one of the nation’s only online, asynchronous graduate programs in actuarial science. With five different start terms and 10-week courses, this program is perfect for working professionals. Earn your degree in as little as one year or move at a part-time pace — whatever works best for you.     
• Network with accredited faculty. Bryant has four certified actuaries on its faculty, including a Fellow with the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) and Associates of both the Society of Actuaries (SOA) and the CAS. You’ll receive dedicated career support and mentorship from industry leaders and benefit from their professional networks.   
• Learn from our specialized curriculum. You’ll be on track to earn your associateship designation from the CAS or SOA, whether you have a background in actuarial science or not. Bryant’s foundational curriculum is specifically designed for exam preparation and career advancement. You’ll also complete a course in Scientific and Technical Communication, a differentiator in the curriculum that prepares you for the real-world need of communicating technical information to a broader audience.   
• The Bryant difference. There’s a reason Bryant consistently ranks in the top 1 percent for ROI — we are committed to your success. Whether you want a personalized learning experience, need extra assistance for actuary exams, or are looking for connections with our extensive faculty and alumni network, Bryant supports you every step of the way. 

Be in Demand

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, actuarial positions are projected to grow 23.2 percent by 2032, with a median annual wage of $113,990. (Average job growth over the same period is 3%.) Job titles include:

• Actuarial Analyst
• Insurance Underwriter
• Financial Analyst
• Predictive Modeler 
• Risk Analyst

About This Program

Why choose a career in actuarial science   .

The need for strong actuaries has never been greater. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, actuarial positions are projected to grow 21 percent in the next decade, with a median annual wage of $105,900. By earning an advanced degree and passing more professional actuarial exams, MSAS graduates have ample opportunities to accelerate their careers and increase their salaries.  

Actuaries also maintain a desirable work-life balance in both remote and on-site positions across the insurance, healthcare, technology, and financial services industries. Expect to pursue jobs as an actuarial analyst or consultant, risk analyst, economist, insurance underwriter, financial analyst, predictive modeler, or auditor — just to name a few.   

Am I a good fit for the program?

Our MSAS program meets your needs if you already have an actuarial science background or if you are transitioning from another field, such as math, statistics, finance, or economics. If you’ve started on the path toward actuarial certification, we’ll help you prepare for advanced exams while simultaneously earning a graduate degree — all relatively quickly. You’ll connect with credentialed faculty and a supportive network along the way.

This program is also a great fit for professionals with a math or finance background looking for a career change. Our foundational curriculum and dedicated faculty will help you begin your new career journey and set you up for success. Wondering if the MSAS is right for you? Reach out to our Graduate and Professional Education Office for more information today.  

What is the curriculum?

The Master of Science in Actuarial Science consists of 10 courses plus Strategies for Success, a required orientation course before the start of the program. While the program is meant to be completed in 12–24 months, you have up to four years to finish your degree.

Bryant’s curriculum is designed with two things in mind: the subject matter on associateship-level exams, and the skills and expertise for long-term career success. You’ll enhance your knowledge in many relevant areas, such as statistical analysis, predictive modeling, risk assessment, data science, and the regulatory and economic environment of the insurance and risk management industries.   

Specific highlights include:   

• Experiential Emphasis: All courses have assessment activities that involve real-world actuarial problems, including a project-oriented capstone that allows students to apply their skills to a realistic problem in their area of interest through a research project or internship.   
• Communication Skills : Communication skills are critical for a successful career in actuarial science. That’s why one of our requirements is a course in Scientific and Technical Communication. Taught by faculty who specialize in communication, this course helps students prepare for the real-world situation of communicating technical information to a broader audience.   

See the course catalog and course schedule for more course information and descriptions. 

Are there prerequisite courses?

You need to have successfully completed a course in statistics at the undergraduate or graduate level prior to matriculation. If you have not yet taken this course, please reach out to our Graduate and Professional Education Office about alternatives. We also recommend a completed course in financial math or interest theory if you haven’t yet taken the actuarial exam in financial mathematics, but it’s not necessary for admission. 

When can I start the program?

Choose from five different start terms throughout the year in January, March, May, August, and October. Each course takes 10 weeks to complete. See the course schedule for upcoming term dates and the Graduate Deadlines page for application deadlines. 

What are the admission requirements?

In addition to the application form , you will need to submit:

• Statement of objectives
• Current resume
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities you have attended
• $80 application fee (waived for Bryant alumni, current Bryant students, active duty military, and military veterans)

International applicants: Please read more about the international application process and requirements on our International Graduate Admission page .

How much is tuition?

2024-2025 Academic Year* 

$3,015 per 3-credit course ($1,005 per credit) 

There is a one-time Strategies for Success orientation course fee of $495.

* Tuition rates are subject to annual change based on approval by the Board of Trustees, typically in the spring of the preceding academic year. 

Financial Aid

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are encouraged to apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . Bryant University also accepts payments from employers with tuition assistance programs. For more information, contact the Financial Aid Office .

Academic Integrity and Consumer Protection

In accordance with the RI Council on Postsecondary Education and the NC-SARA manual, Bryant provides information regarding SARA .

In addition, Bryant University uses a variety of methods to ensure that students are the same individuals receiving academic credit, including SSO for all Bryant systems such as the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), library services, email, and file storage. Many student assignments involve the use of VoiceThread, a video-based discussion system requiring audio and video capture of the student as well as Zoom for synchronous sessions requiring real-time video participation from the students. Finally, all written assignments are submitted via the Turnitin plagiarism-monitoring software to ensure original submissions from all students.

Additional Information:

• NC-SARA Complaint Procedure
• RI-CPE Complaint Procedure  

Graduate Programs Office:

Niki Jannitto Assistant Director, Online Graduate Programs (401) 232-6076

More Information:

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Actuarial Science Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 26 results

Wharton School

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   15 reviews

Master's Student: Intensive but interesting. Great people, but professor quality varied. Lectures tend to be very interesting, but are high level in some cases. Coming from an engineering background, this felt "easy", but it is a different type of learning- more focused on the concepts than proving theories and underlying complexities. TAs are great and there is a lot of effort put towards making students understand the material. Since there isn't a sink or swim culture, I think it incentivizes learning for the sake of learning rather than curving to a "B". Professors are very friendly and actually enjoy getting to know their students. ... Read 15 reviews

University of Pennsylvania ,

Graduate School ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

15 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Intensive but interesting. Great people, but professor quality varied. Lectures tend to be very interesting, but are high level in some cases. Coming from an engineering background, this felt "easy",... Professors are very friendly and actually enjoy getting to know their students. .

Read 15 reviews.

UCLA College of Letters and Science

Los Angeles, CA •

University of California - Los Angeles •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Read 1 reviews.

Mellon College of Science

Pittsburgh, PA •

Carnegie Mellon University •

Blue checkmark.

Carnegie Mellon University ,

PITTSBURGH, PA ,

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• Accounting Graduate Programs
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UC Berkeley College of Letters & Science

Berkeley, CA •

University of California - Berkeley •

University of California - Berkeley ,

BERKELEY, CA ,

Metropolitan College - Boston University

Boston, MA •

Boston University •

• • Rating 4.69 out of 5   13 reviews

Master's Student: Excellent guidance and resources for new students. Very responsive staff across departments. Additional supplementary instruction to ensure students have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in their courses. ... Read 13 reviews

Boston University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Excellent guidance and resources for new students. Very responsive staff across departments. Additional supplementary instruction to ensure students have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed... .

Read 13 reviews.

Wisconsin School of Business at UW Madison

Madison, WI •

University of Wisconsin •

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

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College of Liberal Arts & Sciences - University of Illinois

Urbana, IL •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ,

URBANA, IL ,

College of Letters and Science - UC Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA •

University of California - Santa Barbara •

University of California - Santa Barbara ,

SANTA BARBARA, CA ,

The Ohio State University College of Arts and Sciences

Columbus, OH •

The Ohio State University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Graduate Student: Not a bad place, good reputation but the College is cutting funds every year. Cutting funds within sociales sciences and humanities has been a problem that the college face every year. ... Read 1 review

The Ohio State University ,

COLUMBUS, OH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Not a bad place, good reputation but the College is cutting funds every year. Cutting funds within sociales sciences and humanities has been a problem that the college face every year. .

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA •

University of Iowa •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: The University of Iowa typically treats their grad students quite well. The faculty are dedicated to student success and go out of their way to ensure you learn what you need to, cater to your interests and skills, and have the financial security to continue your studies. Iowa pays humanities grad students well and the health insurance is both stellar and cheap. The environment is friendly and supportive rather than competitive, which was hugely important for me. I wish things could have been more interdisciplinary. The other issue and of a growing concern is that the University board and new president were heading in a direction that wasn't student friendly or focused (or faculty/staff for that matter). As I graduated (2018), there were increasing discussions of cutting benefits, assistantships, tenure packages. ... Read 3 reviews

University of Iowa ,

IOWA CITY, IA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says The University of Iowa typically treats their grad students quite well. The faculty are dedicated to student success and go out of their way to ensure you learn what you need to, cater to your... I wish things could have been more interdisciplinary. The other issue and of a growing concern is that the University board and new president were heading in a direction that wasn't student friendly... .

Read 3 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Lincoln, NE •

University of Nebraska - Lincoln •

University of Nebraska - Lincoln ,

LINCOLN, NE ,

Naveen Jindal School of Management

Richardson, TX •

University of Texas - Dallas •

• • Rating 4.86 out of 5   7 reviews

Master's Student: I recently completed my IT program at the University of Texas at Dallas, and I must say it has been an incredibly enriching academic experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt welcomed and supported, which set the tone for the rest of my journey. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cover a wide range of topics in information technology, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. The professors are experts in their respective fields and are passionate about what they teach. They not only provide valuable insights but also make themselves readily available for one-on-one assistance and mentorship. One of the best parts of my academic experience at UTD has been the abundance of resources available to students. UTD has a strong network of alumni who are actively involved in the program, offering valuable connections and internship opportunities. ... Read 7 reviews

University of Texas - Dallas ,

RICHARDSON, TX ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.9 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I recently completed my IT program at the University of Texas at Dallas, and I must say it has been an incredibly enriching academic experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt welcomed... The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cover a wide range of topics in information technology, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. The professors are experts in their... One of the best parts of my academic experience at UTD has been the abundance of resources available to students. UTD has a strong network of alumni who are actively involved in the program, offering... .

Read 7 reviews.

• Actuarial Science Graduate Programs
• Taxation Graduate Programs

Fox School of Business

Temple University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

Other: With cutting-edge curriculum and experienced faculty, it provides a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles. As a student, I can confidently say that my experiences have been exceptional. The best part is the practical approach to learning, integrating real-world case studies and internships that enhance career readiness. The program's industry connections also open doors for networking and job opportunities. However, the workload can be intense at times, demanding strong time management skills. Nevertheless, the program's support system ensures a nurturing environment for growth. Join us at Fox School of Business for an enriching accounting education! #FoxAccounting ... Read 4 reviews

Temple University ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Other says With cutting-edge curriculum and experienced faculty, it provides a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles. As a student, I can confidently say that my experiences have been... .

Read 4 reviews.

College of Science and Health - DePaul University

Chicago, IL •

DePaul University •

DePaul University ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

University of the Pacific College of the Pacific

Stockton, CA •

University of the Pacific •

University of the Pacific ,

STOCKTON, CA ,

Ball State University College of Sciences and Humanities

Muncie, IN •

Ball State University •

Current Master's student: The classes are of the same rigor and academic quality as on-campus instruction. I have learned quite a great deal from my program so far. The professors have been of high quality up to this point. ... Read 1 review

Ball State University ,

MUNCIE, IN ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The classes are of the same rigor and academic quality as on-campus instruction. I have learned quite a great deal from my program so far. The professors have been of high quality up to this point. .

College of Arts and Sciences - Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA •

Georgia State University •

Georgia State University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - St. John's University - New York

Queens, NY •

St. John's University - New York •

St. John's University - New York ,

QUEENS, NY ,

University of Central Missouri College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Warrensburg, MO •

University of Central Missouri •

University of Central Missouri ,

WARRENSBURG, MO ,

Columbia University School of Professional Studies

New York, NY •

Columbia University •

• • Rating 4.73 out of 5   22 reviews

Master's Student: The Sustainability Management program (SUMA) provides a great opportunity for students that are currently working while completing the degree part-time but also fosters a community of close-knit full-time students as well. Sustainability is fast growing space and this program does a good job of providing a rigorous education and in-demand skills that can be applied in a professional setting. This program offers great flexibility and I plan to complete this degree in 3 semesters, attending full-time for the first year and then finishing out as a part-time student during the 3rd semester. This demanding program is structured so that students can hold a full-time job during the day and attend classes in the evening. ... Read 22 reviews

Columbia University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

22 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The Sustainability Management program (SUMA) provides a great opportunity for students that are currently working while completing the degree part-time but also fosters a community of close-knit... .

Read 22 reviews.

College Of Arts And Sciences - Maryville University

St Louis, MO •

Maryville University •

Maryville University ,

ST LOUIS, MO ,

CUNY Queens College Aaron Copland School of Music

CUNY Queens College •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Other: Aaron Copland School of music has the best faculty and program. The quality of the education is extraordinarily high and you can experience virtually all areas of music field in one school. ... Read 1 review

CUNY Queens College ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Other says Aaron Copland School of music has the best faculty and program. The quality of the education is extraordinarily high and you can experience virtually all areas of music field in one school. .

CUNY Queens College Graduate School of Library and Information Studies

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I really enjoyed the dual degree program I was in at Queens College. The professors were engaging and truly cared about the students. I appreciated the swift switch to online courses in the midst of the pandemic. There was some learning curves due to the online format but it wasn't terrible. The main concerns that I had with the program was the lack of communication between students and faculty. Students concerns were dealt with but not in an appropriate and reasonable timeframe. ... Read 2 reviews

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I really enjoyed the dual degree program I was in at Queens College. The professors were engaging and truly cared about the students. I appreciated the swift switch to online courses in the midst of... The main concerns that I had with the program was the lack of communication between students and faculty. Students concerns were dealt with but not in an appropriate and reasonable timeframe. .

Read 2 reviews.

CUNY Queens College School of Business

Cuny queens college school of earth and environmental sciences.

Showing results 1 through 25 of 26

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Actuarial Science Degrees: Master's, PhD & Online Class Info

•  / 
• Career Info By Degree Program

Studying Actuarial Science: Degrees and Training at a Glance

Actuaries estimate financial consequences of risk, using math, applied statistics and financial theory to determine probabilities of accidents, sickness and loss of property from theft or natural disasters. They are employed by insurance companies, financial services firms, employee benefit departments and consulting organizations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected a 27% growth in actuarial opportunities from 2010-2020, compared to 14% growth in jobs overall.

Income growth and professional progression may require passing subject area examinations of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). CAS addresses property and casualty losses and SOA covers life insurance, health and financial management. You might get an intermediate actuarial position by passing at least one examination and earning a master's degree. With experience and Associate or Fellow status with these organizations, you could have higher-level specialist or consulting opportunities. Ph.D. holders could work as consultants, college teachers and researchers in actuarial science, math, operations research or applied statistics.

Source: *Salary.com (2012 median figures), **The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (2010 mean figures).

Master's Degree in Actuarial Science

You may study actuarial science in a dedicated program or as a concentration within a math or MBA degree program. Master's study in actuarial science might also be offered through a math department, a business school or a risk management or insurance department. Programs may have requirements outside of a typical graduate actuarial curriculum. For example, an MBA program with a concentration in actuarial science may require meeting MBA admission requirements and completing standard foundations courses in business disciplines along with mathematical statistics specific to actuarial science. You'll typically develop quantitative skills to model financial impacts of risk factors and to design solutions to manage them.

A master's candidate in actuarial science can expect 4-6 semesters of full-time study. Programs may require a summer internship, a thesis or other culminating project. You may have some elective options that permit you to specialize. Your school may offer dual degree options that will allow you to also graduate with risk-management credentials.

Pros and Cons

• Opportunity to enter a well-paid, stable field with multiple career tracks and income growth with experience and professional certifications
• Schools may offer courses aligned with SOA and CAS examination topics so you'll have a chance to pass one or more exams before you graduate
• Electives may permit development of a specialization
• Flexible career options
• Career requires substantial commitment to ongoing learning
• Intense study may be required for examinations
• Jobs may be more available in geographic areas with substantial financial service organization activity
• Depending on your academic background, you may be required to complete foundational quantitative or business subject courses before beginning the master's program

Courses and Requirements

For this field, you'll study mathematical modeling, valuation of financial assets and applied statistics. Schools may encourage you to pass one or more SOA or CAS examinations during your studies. Some programs may require a thesis or a real-life capstone project. You might take courses like these:

• Life contingencies
• Loss distribution and credibility theory
• Principles of property and casualty ratemaking
• Quantitative financial risk models
• Valuation of financial assets
• Applied statistics and econometrics
• Advanced survival models

Online Courses

Actuarial science degree candidates should probably expect to complete their degrees on campus, since necessary courses may not available online. Depending on your school, some courses may be available online, or you may be able to complete some online courses at another school for transfer credit. You may be able to take courses as an independent enrollee or your company may provide various forms of on-the-job training. SOA and CAS offer online educational opportunities ranging from webinars and courses eligible for continuing education units to self-study products.

Getting Ahead with This Degree

Schools designated as Centers of Actuarial Excellence by SOA often encourage or require students to take one or more SOA or CAS exams before they graduate. CAS encourages students to contribute services to the field through volunteerism. You may land an internship that leads to a full-time position. Some schools have chapters of Gamma Iota Sigma, the actuarial science fraternity. Related research centers may provide opportunities to work on real-world consulting problems posed by financial services companies.

Ph.D. Covering Actuarial Science

Ph.D. programs specifically in actuarial science may be somewhat less common than those in risk management and insurance, which incorporate actuarial science topics. Risk management programs require study of economics, finance, statistics and applied math to analyze risks of alternate management decisions. If you're pursuing a Ph.D. in actuarial science or closely-related disciplines, you're likely headed for a research and teaching career, advanced consulting opportunities or senior management of a research-oriented actuarial or risk management function in an organization.

You may apply for a Ph.D. program in math, actuarial science or risk management with an appropriate bachelor's or master's degree. If you enter with a master's degree, you'll probably complete 20-30 additional credits. Exact requirements may be modified, depending on your background. Prerequisites might include courses in linear algebra, mathematical statistics or undergraduate calculus.

• Programs can lead to high-security, lucrative careers
• Can be a great fit for students with high-level math and analytical aptitudes
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business projects shortages of professors in business schools due to retirements and increased enrollment worldwide *
• Career based on objective criteria like experience, knowledge and passage of actuarial association examinations may be less subject to organizational politics
• May not be the career for those who prefer high social contact environments; career extended periods of working alone with a computer
• Requires lifelong commitment to continuing education
• Field requires extremely high levels of thoroughness and accuracy

Source: *The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

For this degree program, you'll need a broad math background and aptitude for math research. Students should expect a highly quantitative course sequence. Schools may also have second language requirements. Like other doctoral candidates, you'll need to maintain a high GPA and pass preliminary and oral examinations prior to defending your dissertation.

Candidates will typically take courses outside their department, often in economics and finance. Your school may expect you to pass SOA or CAS exams and produce publishable papers. You may also be expected to teach and contribute to research initiatives and the publication of research findings.

These courses may be typical:

• Seminar in actuarial science, risk management and insurance
• Insurance theory
• Macro and microeconomics
• Advanced financial econometrics
• Computational risk methods
• Advanced stochastic process
• Asset pricing

Students should probably not expect that advanced courses will be available online, though individual courses may be available. If they are, they may not be offered every semester. If you want to pursue a specific research topic, you may be able to work with a professor on an independent study that you could pursue online. Supplemental courses and workshops may be offered by professional associations, but your school may not accept these for credit.

Stand Out with This Degree

Recommendations for master's candidates, like passing SOA and CAS examinations, may also apply to Ph.D. students. Potential employers may be looking for contributions to published research, conference presentations and teaching ability. Your school and organizations like SOA may offer awards, research grants and scholarships.

You could get points for service to the field through volunteerism. You might contribute to background work for textbooks through The Actuarial Foundation sponsored by SOA or by winning a prize or individual research grant. The Actuarial Foundation supports initiatives for consumer education math education in grades 4-12 that may welcome voluntary participation by advanced students.

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Mathematics, PhD PhD

The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers graduate programs of study in mathematics with specializations in the fields of algebra, analysis, topology, applied mathematics, probability and statistics, and actuarial science.

A student may prepare for a career in teaching at the secondary or college level, and for a career in research in the academic, industrial, government, or business communities.

The programs of study at the master’s level are designed to suit both the student intending to continue toward a PhD, as well as the student who wishes to begin a professional career upon completion of the master’s program.

The Department has a vibrant PhD program. Mathematics research specialties available to students include:

• Actuarial Science
• Applied Mathematics
• Differential Equations
• Numerical Analysis
• Probability

For more details on the Department’s research groups and the research interests of its faculty members  click here .

Program Type

Program format.

• Academic Requirements
• Financial Support

Additional Requirements

Credits and courses.

Minimum degree requirement is 54 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree, at least 27 of which must be earned in residence at UWM.  In addition, at least half of the credits earned toward the degree must be in courses numbered 700 or above. 

The student, in consultation with the major professor, must select both a primary and a secondary area of specialization. The primary area may be chosen from one of the following seven fields:

Transcript Designated Concentrations

Applied mathematics field, probability and statistics field, actuarial science field.

NOTE:  Admission to this program is limited to students who have made significant progress towards and are close to achieving a professional designation from an internationally recognized actuarial organization.

Non-Transcript Designated Specializations

Algebra field, analysis field, topology field, industrial mathematics field.

The secondary area may be chosen from another of these fields or may be chosen from another appropriate department. Minimum course requirements for all work in both areas of specialization require approximately two full years of study.

In order to be considered for admission to the graduate program, candidates must complete the  UWM Graduate School online application .

A master’s degree is not a prerequisite for admission to this PhD program, but strong applicants will typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in math, actuarial science, statistics or related topic with a minimum background of three semesters of calculus, linear algebra, probability, and mathematical statistics.

Information about submission of transcripts, GPA requirements, and English proficiency can be found on the  Graduate School website . The application will request that you provide your intended course of study and the names and e-mail addresses of three (3) references who have agreed to provide letters of recommendation.

The Department of Mathematical Sciences encourages, but does not currently require submission of general GRE scores. GRE Mathematics subject test scores are appreciated, but also not required.

Prospective students interested in visiting the Department of Mathematical Sciences are encouraged to contact the  Associate Chair for the Graduate Program  to arrange a visit.

Admissions are made on a rolling basis, so there are no hard deadlines. Nevertheless, most offers of Teaching assistantships, Research Assistantships, and Fellowships are made during the spring for students who will begin their studies the following fall. In order to maximize chances of obtaining the best possible financial aid package it is recommended that the applications be completed by the end of January. Later applicants with good credentials will be considered for admission and financial aid subject to availability.

Teaching and Research Assistantships are the primary form of financial support for mathematics graduate students. These positions provide a salary and tuition remission. Some small scholarships are also available. Click below for more details.

Major Professor as Advisor

The student must have a major professor to advise and supervise the student’s studies as specified in Graduate School regulations. The entering graduate student is assigned a temporary advisor by the Department Graduate Program Coordinator.

Computer Proficiency

The student shall pass an examination on a higher programming language and/or other appropriate advanced computer skills; the examinations administered by the Department’s Computer Committee. The Computer Committee may accept advanced computer science coursework in lieu of the examination.

The student must meet minimum Graduate School residence requirements.

Doctoral Preliminary Examination

When the student is sufficiently prepared — normally when the student has earned 24 credits in specified areas above the 800 level — a doctoral preliminary examination to determine the student’s knowledge and achievement is taken. For students in mathematics, the exam evaluates the student’s general knowledge of mathematics, as well as the student’s knowledge of the major area of concentration. Students must pass this examination to continue in the program. With permission of the examination committee, the student may repeat this examination once. If the student does not have a master’s degree in mathematics before this examination, the committee will determine whether the student’s performance is sufficient to qualify for the master’s degree.

Doctoral Dissertation Proposal Hearing

After passing the language requirements and the doctoral preliminary examination, the student participates in a doctoral dissertation proposal hearing. At this hearing, the student is examined on the student’s chosen area of research and a dissertation topic is approved.

Dissertation

The primary requirement for the PhD in mathematics is the candidate’s completion, under the supervision of the Department advisor, of an original and significant mathematical investigation presented in the form of a dissertation. The investigation is to be in the field of algebra, analysis, applied mathematics, probability and statistics, topology, or actuarial science. A dissertation for the industrial mathematics field must involve an industrial problem requiring a mathematical solution.

Dissertation Defense

The candidate must, as the final step toward the degree, present a colloquium based on the dissertation and must pass an oral examination in defense of the dissertation. If the candidate does not successfully defend a thesis within five years of admission to candidacy, the candidate may be required to take another doctoral preliminary examination and be readmitted to candidacy.

All degree requirements must be completed within ten years from the date of initial enrollment in the doctoral program. Note that students seeking the PhD are limited to a maximum of seven years, inclusive of time spent in pursuit of an initial MS degree, of departmental financial support.

Minor Area for Other PhD Majors

A doctoral student planning a physical science major other than mathematics may fulfill requirements for mathematics as the minor area of concentration by completing 12 credits of approved mathematics courses with a grade of B or better, at least 6 credits of which must be in courses 800 or above.

A doctoral student planning a non-physical science major may fulfill requirements for mathematics as the minor area of concentration by completing 12 credits with a grade of B or better in approved mathematics courses 300 or above.

For additional information on the PhD, see the Graduate School  Doctoral Requirements  page.

The Society of Actuaries recognizes UWM as a Center of Actuarial Excellence, one of only 20 U.S. universities with this distinction.

Prospective Graduates

Questions regarding the application or the application process should be directed to the UWM Graduate School at  [email protected]  or  414-229-6569 .

Current Graduates

Questions about research opportunities, department funding opportunities, or issues specific to the discipline should be directed to  Vytaras Brazauskas .

Actuarial Science - PhD at Waterloo

Program information.

Watch the How to apply to Waterloo graduate studies video

What does it take to get in?

Minimum admission requirements.

• A Master's degree in statistics, actuarial science, or mathematics , completed or expected. Note: graduates of other quantitative and mathematically oriented programs are also encouraged to apply; this includes, but is not restricted to, graduates of commerce, economics, engineering, finance, and any of the physical sciences. The department graduate committee will determine the suitability of each student’s background for success in this program.*
• Students with an undergraduate degree in statistics, actuarial science, or mathematics may apply for admission directly to the PhD program. Successful applicants will have an outstanding academic record, and very strong letters of recommendation.*
• At least an overall 78% average from a Canadian university (or its equivalent)
• An interview may be required

Supervisors

• Review the finding a supervisor resources

Application materials

• The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the  application documents web page for more information about this requirement
• If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the  writing your personal statement resources  for helpful tips and tricks on completion

Transcript(s)

• Three  references are required, normally from academic sources
• TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

How much will it cost?

• Use the student budget calculator to estimate your cost and resources
• Visit the  graduate program tuition page  on the Finance website to determine the tuition and incidental fees per term for your program
• Review the  study and living costs
• Review the funding graduate school resources for graduate students

What can you expect at Waterloo?

• Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree
• Check out profiles of current graduate students to learn about their experience at Waterloo
• Check out Waterloo's institutional thesis repository - UWspace to see recent submissions from the department of Statistics and Actuarial Science graduate students
• Check out the Waterloo campus and city tours
• Review the  Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science website to see information about supervisors, research areas, news, and events

This program page is effective September 2023; it will be updated annually.  Any changes to the program page following this date will be indicated with a notation. *Edited November 2023. 

We strive to provide you with the necessary information on each of our program pages.  Was there something you found helpful?  Was there anything missing?  Share your thoughts .

Program Contact

Request more information

Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA)

Needles Hall, second floor, room 2201

Graduate Studies Academic Calendar

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The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations .

• Academic Programs
• Actuarial Science

Actuarial Science Program

Purdue’s actuarial science program provides a broad-based quantitative background in mathematics, probability, economics, data analytics and statistics. This combination of quantitative and analytical skills is a big reason why the actuarial science program is one of the top-ranked programs in the United States. 

Since 2017, CollegeChoice.Net has ranked the program the Best Actuarial Science Degree and in 2022, the program was top-five in the College Gazette rankings.

Beyond rankings, the Society of Actuaries (SOA), the global professional organization for actuaries, has designated Purdue University as a Center of Actuarial Excellence (CAE) – their highest level of recognition for universities.

Degree options

Purdue’s Actuarial Science Program is an interdisciplinary program jointly administered by the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Statistics. Upon graduation, students receive an Actuarial Science degree as well as a Statistics degree. Many graduates also complete a business management minor, and some choose to graduate with "honors in actuarial science" by fulfilling additional requirements. Nearly 100% of graduates are employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation.

• What is an Actuary
• Plan of Study
• Honors Plan of Study
• Actuarial Science Admissions

The program prepares students for an actuarial career as well as the first six exams set by the Society of Actuaries and the first four exams set by the Casualty Actuarial Society. Students can complete these exams while enrolled – before they graduate – giving them a competitive edge in their career search.

Committed to providing education at the highest proven value, the Actuarial Science Program offers a scholarship program the registration cost for actuarial exams. Students who complete an Exam Award Application before sitting for the exam can receive a 100% reimbursement when they pass an exam.

Strong background in math and statistics gives these candidates an edge in a variety of positions in business and government.

Actuarial Science Faculty

The faculty includes six credentialed actuaries who have achieved the highest professional achievement as Fellows of the Society of Actuaries (FSA). Faculty members have received excellence in teaching awards and actively conduct research that adds to the body of knowledge in the field. Additionally, the faculty is committed to the development of an innovative, industry-aware curriculum that changes to meet current dynamics and developments, including data science initiatives. The program is directed by associate professor Jianxi Su , FSA.

Student Experiences

Students are encouraged to step out of the classroom and into experiential learning to develop leadership skills, build confidence and make connections.

The Data Mine : An initiative born from actuarial faculty, The Data Mine explores problems at the intersection of Actuarial Science and Data Science. Students apply theory from the classroom to real-world situations using data analytic methods on large amounts of unstructured data. Research and ethical implications are considered.

Undergraduate Research: Each year, the Actuarial program provides summer research internships for undergraduate students. Other opportunities for undergraduate research are provided by the actuarial faculty and through The Data Mine. For more research information, please contact Jianxi Su at [email protected] .

The Purdue Actuarial Club is a student group that coordinates the recruitment efforts between business and industry and students looking for full-time employment or internships. The club supports students in their job search, sponsors professional events and hosts social activities.

Introduction video for Purdue Actuarial Science program.

More interviews with Purdue Actuarial Science faculty and students on YouTube .

Department of Mathematics, Purdue University, 150 N. University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2067

Phone: (765) 494-1901 - FAX: (765) 494-0548   Contact Us

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Actuarial science.

Master of Science

Certification of Professional Achievement

Join a distinguished community of actuarial leaders.

The Master of Science in Actuarial Science program at Columbia University is internationally renowned for its breakthrough curriculum and esteemed faculty. The program equips students with the tools, skills, and knowledge to excel in today’s rapidly evolving actuarial and related workplaces, with a course of study designed to anticipate and exceed industry needs. Students are prepared to assume leadership positions and meet ever expanding opportunities. Columbia’s location in New York City, the financial and actuarial capital of the world, allows students access to the world’s foremost practitioners and leaders.

The program's academic rigor greatly benefits from partners and advisors in the Actuarial Science Academic Committee (ASAC). ASAC members are professors across Columbia University's Statistics Department, the Engineering School, and the School of Professional Studies. ASAC steers the program's academic affairs, including curriculum and faculty recruitment.

Learn more about the program in the Actuarial Science Fact Sheet.

M.S. Application Requirements

M.s. application deadlines, professional development courses & events, featured faculty, students and alumni, actuarial science alum shares how the sps program has been critical to his success kyle cai (‘17sps, actuarial science) shares the surprising link he learned between actuarial science and storytelling—and how his final project at the program became a talking point in job interviews. student beyond the numbers: how a math major turned his strengths into success at columbia's actuarial science program student dennis goldenberg shares what attracted him to columbia’s m.s. in actuarial science program and what excites him about the field. faculty students should explore different applications of actuarial science, advises actuarial science lecturer tonya manning the buck wealth practice leader and chief actuary brings thirty years of experience to columbia classrooms. view all in the news, actuarial science alum shares how the sps program has been critical to his success kyle cai (‘17sps, actuarial science) shares the surprising link he learned between actuarial science and storytelling—and how his final project at the program became a talking point in job interviews. student beyond the numbers: how a math major turned his strengths into success at columbia's actuarial science program student dennis goldenberg shares what attracted him to columbia’s m.s. in actuarial science program and what excites him about the field. faculty for women's history month, sps faculty share advice for women in their fields lecturers in enterprise risk management, sports management, and construction administration were among those who weighed in. view all news application timeline.

Now accepting applications. Learn more about application deadlines.

Information Sessions

Find out about upcoming information sessions and other events.

Sign Up for Updates

Stay in the know with updates sent straight to your inbox.

Connect with Us

Learn more about Actuarial Science at Columbia University School of Professional Studies, or contact the program admissions counselor.

Study with Us

As admissions to our programs are highly competitive, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Learn more about the application process, deadlines, and requirements.

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure Requirements

Institutions providing distance education are required to provide certain general disclosures for educational programs, regardless of modality, that prepare students for professional licensure or certification. The required information relates to whether or not the educational program meets the requirements for professional licensure or certification in all other states. Where applicable, an institution must also indicate when such a determination cannot be made.

Professional licensure and certification requirements may vary state to state. This information is also subject to change. Students should contact the appropriate licensing or certification agency for his or her home state to obtain the most up to date information.

The School of Professional Studies Actuarial Science program prepares students for the associate actuarial certification examinations of Society of Actuaries and Casualty Actuarial Society and thereby does meets the academic requirements for certification in all 50 states.

Date of Last Revision: July 2020

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Risk and Actuarial Studies

How to apply.

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD with the School of Risk and Actuarial Studies (UNSW Business), then you will need to receive an Invitation to Apply from the school’s Postgraduate Research Coordinator .

To receive an Invitation to Apply, you should 1) self-assess your eligibility, and 2) then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 31 st July 2024 . Only selected applications will be invited to apply via the UNSW central portal. Details of what to include in your EOI can be found here .

About the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Risk & Actuarial Studies

UNSW’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Risk & Actuarial Studies will prepare you to become a globally focused and socially engaged research leader. You’ll join a cohort of high-achieving research students working at the forefront of research in actuarial studies, risk analytics, superannuation and population ageing, alongside leaders in the field (ranked 1st in the UNL Global Research Rankings of Actuarial Science and Risk Management & Insurance TM ). This is your opportunity to become integrated into the UNSW Business School’s community of scholars.

Most admitted students will enter the pathway program, the Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS). If you are invited to apply for Direct Entry into a PhD, either before or after successful completion of the MPDBS, then the minimum time commitment is 35-40 hours per week for 3-4 years (full time) or 15 hours a week (part time).

You’ll first undertake rigorous coursework covering risk theory, multivariate models for risks, longevity risk management, data analytics, economic and regulatory capital and investment and asset liability modelling. As part of your PhD program, you’ll also be involved in research projects from an early stage. This training will equip you with the skills required to identify, analyse and solve problems in the field.

You’ll then pursue full-time research under the supervision of high-profile UNSW academics, culminating in a doctoral thesis. There will also be exciting opportunities throughout to interact with industry leaders, and to develop your teaching portfolio. The training is geared toward preparing you for a career in academia, although other career paths (e.g., consulting, government, industry, non-profit) are also enabled.

Your PhD thesis will showcase your research skills and enable you to make an original contribution to your field.

Linked Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS) + PhD

Although a few students may be invited to apply for Direct Entry into our PhD program, most applicants are invited to first complete our Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS).

The MPDBS is a one-year pathway for students wanting to undertake a PhD in the UNSW Business School. The MPDBS is a fully funded program, which includes a tuition waiver and stipend (of ~A$37K) for all accepted applicants. This degree constitutes one year of advanced coursework including a research project. Upon completion of the MPDBS, the vast majority of students have historically gone on to our PhD with a scholarship covering tuition and a stipend (~ A$47K).

The MPDBS gives students an extra year to develop their research skills and to find a match with appropriate supervisors. 

The application processes for both the PhD and the Linked MPDBS + PhD are identical as shown in How to Apply.  

PhD Program Structure

Year one: master of pre-doctoral business studies (mpdbs).

Your first year of study is designed to provide a rigorous foundation to conduct independent research. You’ll learn a range of methodologies and build your communication and presentation skills.

Your first year of coursework study will cover fundamental research methods. You’ll also start developing key research skills such as identifying, framing, presenting, and writing academic contributions. You’ll work as a research assistant on faculty research projects and start working on your own research as your skills develop.

The first year will help you identify your potential thesis supervisor for the PhD component of the program. Upon successful completion of the first year, you’ll be awarded a Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies. A brief overview of the first year is presented below. Please visit the  UNSW Handbook  for full course structure details. 

• Program Core Course:  COMM8100
• Two Elective Courses
• Program Core Course:  COMM8101  or  COMM8102
• Stream Core Course: Research Assistance Work
• One Elective Course
• Program Core Course:  COMM8103

Year Two: Specialised Coursework & Identification of Thesis Topic

During the second year, you’ll continue in the Risk & Actuarial Studies stream with a further year of advanced coursework.

You’ll choose up to eight additional research courses from a range of electives in consultation with your supervisor, with an opportunity to take at least one subject outside of your specialised discipline.

Your second year is also when you’ll identify your thesis topic with your supervisor. You’ll engage in literature review and research design and present your research proposal to the School at the end of the year.

Year Three – Four: Original Research & Your Doctoral Thesis

The final two years of the program are focused on conducting full-time research and completing your doctoral thesis. This is your opportunity to address some of the biggest challenges in Risk & Actuarial Studies and make a significant contribution to knowledge in your field. Your research will offer new critical thinking and withstand critical analysis from expert researchers in the area.

As with most other OECD countries, the number of PhD completions in Australia has grown dramatically – more than doubling in the last two decades.

An increasing number of PhD graduates find employment in business, government, and the non-profit sector. Nineteen of the largest ASX companies have PhD graduates on their senior executive teams.

Your PhD thesis will set you on the path to a career in a premier research institution, anywhere in the world. Throughout your research degree, you’ll also have many opportunities to develop your teaching portfolio.

Beyond academia, there is also significant demand in the private and public sectors for people with deep knowledge and sound research and analytical skills*.

Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in academia, or take your research skills out to industry, a PhD in Risk & Actuarial Studies from UNSW will get you there.

*Source:  2019 Advancing Australia’s Knowledge Economy Report

Degree type

Postgraduate Research

4 years full-time, 5-8 years part-time

Commencing terms

Term 1 – February

Program code

Delivery mode, domestic / international.

International

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COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES

Department of Mathematics

M.s. in mathematics – concentration in actuarial science.

• General Information
• Financial Aid
• Answers to FAQ
• Ph.D. in Mathematics
• M.S. in Mathematics
• Ph.D. in Mathematics with Thesis in Actuarial Science
• M.S. in Actuarial Science
• M.S. in Applied Financial Mathematics
• M.S. in Applied Financial Mathematics – Actuarial Science
• Course Schedule
• Preliminary Exams

Not taking applications at this time.

See applied financial mathematics with concentration in actuarial science ., introduction.

• Prepares students for careers as practicing actuaries in the insurance, pension, financial or consulting industries.
• Coursework encompasses most of the subject matter for the first five professional examinations of the Society of Actuaries and Casualty Actuarial Society.
• Offers elective coursework meeting all of the Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) requirements of the two professional societies.
• Advanced coursework in Statistics, Finance, Investing, Accounting and Economics.
• Students typically complete the degree in 3 or 4 semesters of full time study.
• Qualifies as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degree with the federal government.  International students who earn the degree may be eligible for the STEM extension to the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program, if the company is an E-Verify employer .
• More on our actuarial program can be found on its homepage .

Overview of Requirements

To graduate with an M.S. in Mathematics, concentration in Actuarial Science, a student must satisfy all of the following requirements:

• At least 30 credits, including at least 5 of the core courses below.
• A masters pass on two of the departmental PhD qualifying examinations (offered each August and January), which can be waived by passing two exams of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).

Semesters are noted for reference purposes but are subject to change without notice.  Students should refer to Student Admin to confirm availability for a given semester.   Those without student admin access can check here .

Core Courses – minimum of five

Elective courses.

Select additional courses from the core courses list, and/or select from the following:

No more than 6 credits of undergraduate courses 3000+ can be used toward the MS degree.

*Enrollment in the Hartford Campus courses can be made by arrangement with the Instructor or the Graduate Coordinator .   Online can mean distance learning or asynchronous and the mode could change in future semesters.

Undergraduate courses of interest but these courses are not eligible to be included in the M.S. degree requirement :

Additional UConn VEE Course Listings

Report on the final exam.

• Passing grades on two Society of Actuaries or Casualty Actuarial Society exams (preferred)
• Pass two of the mathematics department’s preliminary PhD qualifying examinations at master’s level (offered in August and January)

Ready to Apply?

Actuarial Science, B.S.

Create impact in the world faster with a Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science from IU Online. In this flexible degree program, you’ll learn how to use mathematics, statistics, and probability principles to anticipate future events and take preventive measures. 

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Course Delivery : 100% Online

Total Credits : 120

In-State Tuition Per Credit : $290

Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit : $390

Cost of attendance may vary by campus. View the total cost calculator

Degree Overview

You’ll benefit from a career-focused program ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. You’ll graduate with an Indiana University degree respected by employers worldwide—and you can work on yours anytime and anywhere.

And the benefits start long before graduation. More than half of IU Online students advance in their careers before they complete their degree.

To apply to this program: 

• Complete application for admissions
• Submit official transcripts

Application Dates: Rolling admissions. Application review will begin upon receipt of all required application materials. 

Career Outcomes

Your IU Online BS in Actuarial Sciences prepares you for careers such as: 

• Data analyst 
• Financial planner
• Investment analyst
• Business analyst
• Underwriter

Transfer Credits

You can transfer up to 64 credit hours from a regionally accredited community college or 90 credit hours from an accredited four-year university or college.

Degree Requirements

To graduate with the B.S. in Actuarial Science, you must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours. Requirements are broken down as follows:

• Core actuarial science courses (9 credit hours)
• Core mathematics courses (31 credit hours)
• Programming/computer science courses (6 credit hours)
• Business and economics courses (15 credit hours)
• Upper-level actuarial science electives (15 credit hours)
• General education courses, as needed to fulfill the 120 credit hour requirement

Courses for IU East, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast

  Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool .

Courses for IU Indianapolis

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool .

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Actuarial Science

Qualifying as an actuary is a passport to a wide variety of careers in insurance companies, investments, pensions, health care and banking – not just in the UK, but throughout the world. Kent is one of a very few universities in the UK to teach the subject.

Key information

• Duration 3 to 4 years full-time
• Start date September, January, May
• Location Canterbury

The PhD in Actuarial Science offers the opportunity to begin or consolidate your research career under the guidance of internationally renowned researchers and professionals in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS).

This research programme, which can be taken three to four years full-time or five to six years part-time, offers the opportunity to work in highly topical areas such financial modelling and estimation, quantification of diversification benefits, quantifying financial risks, and derivatives pricing. Applications for PhD research in these and other areas will be welcomed.

There's an active seminar programme involving a wide range of speakers and members of the PhD community regularly attend/present their work at leading conferences and institutes.

Before applying for this course, it is strongly recommended that you contact the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science in the first instance to discuss your study plans with the programme director.

About the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS)

The School has a strong reputation for world-class research and a well-established system of support and training, with a high level of contact between staff and research students. Postgraduate students develop analytical, communication and research skills.

In 2010 the Centre for Actuarial Science, Risk and Investment (CASRI) was set up within SMSAS to reflect the widening scope of the teaching and research of the staff. Areas of research interest include economic capital and risk management for financial services firms, mortality and longevity modelling, longevity indices and markets. Other research topics include genetics and insurance, insurance economics, pensions and corporate reporting.

The Centre includes 13 professionally qualified actuaries with many years’ practical experience in insurance and pensions, and who maintain excellent links with the actuarial profession.

Everything you need to know.

Entry requirements, study support.

A first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject (or equivalent).

All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications. 

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country  and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English language entry requirements

This course requires a Good level of English language, equivalent to B2 on CEFR.  

Details on how to meet this requirement can be found on our English Language requirements webpage . 

Examples:  

IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component 

PTE Academic 63 with a minimum of 59 in each sub-test 

A degree from a UK university 

A degree from a Majority English Speaking Country 

Need help with English?

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways .

Postgraduate research is a fantastic opportunity and significant investment in your future, enabling you to expand your knowledge, skills and career options – all while making a meaningful impact and contribution to an area you are passionate about.

At Kent, we also recognise the significant financial investment that comes with postgraduate study, and we offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate researchers, to help keep your mind on your studies, and off your finances.

Scholarships can be broad, or specific to your situation, background or even country – so please do use our scholarships finder to discover the options available to you.

We also have research partnership funding with research councils and government schemes in specific areas of interest that can help you take your research to the next level with additional financial support.

Find out more on our fees and funding page and discover what option is right for you.

Postgraduate resources

The University’s Templeman Library houses a comprehensive collection of books and research periodicals. The University of Kent has entered into an exclusive arrangement with SunGard, a global leader in integrated software and processing solutions primarily for financial services, who market the industry’s leading actuarial software package PROPHET.

Links with industry

The Centre for Actuarial Science, Risk and Investment maintains close relationships with industry actuaries through the Invicta Actuarial Society, a regional actuarial society which holds its meetings at the Canterbury campus and is organised by University of Kent students and academic staff. The Society hosts an annual lecture in conjunction with the Worshipful Company of Actuaries, featuring prestigious speakers from industry and the profession. The Society also arranges talks from external speakers including practitioners, careers advisers and recruiters from the UK and overseas.

Dynamic publishing culture

Staff publish regularly and widely in journals, conference proceedings and books. Among others, they have recently contributed to: British Actuarial Journal ; Actuary Australia ; Annals of Actuarial Science ; Journal of Pension Economics and Finance . Details of recently published books can be found under staff research interests.

Researcher Development Programme

Kent's Graduate School co-ordinates the Researcher Development Programme for research students, which includes workshops focused on research, specialist and transferable skills. The programme is mapped to the national Researcher Development Framework and covers a diverse range of topics, including subject-specific research skills, research management, personal effectiveness, communication skills, networking and teamworking, and career management skills.

Work in actuarial science at the University of Kent can be divided into three broad themes achieving a balance of theoretical and applied investigations, as well as addressing social policy implications.

Economic capital and financial risk management

With the advent of new risk-based regulations for financial services firms, specifically Basel 2 and Basel 3 for banks and Solvency 2 for insurers, there is now a heightened focus on the practical implementation of quantitative risk management techniques for firms and defined benefit pension schemes operating within the financial services sector.

In particular, financial services firms are now expected to self-assess and quantify the amount of capital they need to cover the risks they are running. This self-assessed quantum of capital is commonly termed risk, or economic, capital.

At Kent we are actively involved in developing rigorous risk management techniques to explicitly measure how much risk a firm or pension scheme is taking, holistically, across the entire spectrum of risks it accepts.

More about our research in this area

Longevity risk

Longevity risk represents a substantial threat to the stability of support programmes for the elderly, most notably to the subset that provides income protection but also to non-traditional products such as home equity release schemes.

One approach to dealing with longevity risk is to model key factors that influence mortality; this may be achieved using aggregate (causal) mortality rates or panel data with individual-specific covariates. Another approach to modelling longevity risk is via an investigation of positive quadrant dependence between lives, which requires a multivariate framework. Once this is in place, longevity risk may be investigated on various fronts ranging from entire populations to couples.

Public policy aspects of risk classification

Restrictions on risk classification can lead to adverse selection, and actuaries usually regard this as a bad thing. However, restrictions do exist in many countries, suggesting that policymakers often perceive some merit in such restrictions. Careful re-examination of the usual actuarial arguments can help to reconcile these observations.

Models of insurance purchasing behaviour under different risk classification regimes can quantify the effects of particular bans, e.g. on insurers’ use of genetic test results, or gender classification in the European Union.

Staff research interests

Kent’s world-class academics provide research students with excellent supervision. The academic staff in this school and their research interests are shown below. You are strongly encouraged to contact the school to discuss your proposed research and potential supervision prior to making an application. Please note, it is possible for students to be supervised by a member of academic staff from any of Kent’s schools, providing their expertise matches your research interests. Use our ‘ find a supervisor ’ search to search by staff member or keyword.

Full details of staff research interests can be found on the School's website .

Helping our students to develop strong employability skills is a key objective within the School and the University. We provide a wide range of services and support to equip you with transferable vocational skills that enable you to secure appropriate professional positions within industry. Within the School we run specialist seminars and provide advice on creating a strong CV, making job applications and successfully attending interviews and assessment centres.

Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in the actuarial, finance, insurance and risk sectors.

The 2024/25 annual tuition fees for this course are:

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide .

For students continuing on this programme fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* If you are uncertain about your fee status please contact [email protected] .

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from  UKCISA  before applying.

General information

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* 

Additional costs

General additional costs.

Find out more about  general additional costs  that you may pay when studying at Kent. 

Search our scholarships finder for possible funding opportunities. You may find it helpful to look at both:

• University and external funds
• Scholarships specific to the academic school delivering this programme.

We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.

Ready to apply?

Learn more about the  application process  or begin your application by clicking on a link below.

You will be able to choose your preferred year of entry once you have started your application. You can also save and return to your application at any time.

Need help deciding?

Our friendly team is on hand to help you with any queries you have.

Find the right supervisor for your and your research project.

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Supporting your success

We are here to support your postgraduate journey.

Kent ranked top 50 in The Complete University Guide 2024 .

Support for funding so you can focus on your studies.

Research excellence.

Kent has risen 11 places in THE’s REF 2021 ranking, confirming us as a leading research university.

It’s easy to study on or off campus at Kent – discover what is right for you.

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College of Graduate Studies

Physical Address: Morrill Hall Room 104

Mailing Address: College of Graduate Studies University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3017 Moscow, ID 83844-3017

Phone: 208-885-2647

Email: [email protected]

Online Master’s and Doctoral Programs List

The University of Idaho’s online graduate degrees reflect our mission of making education accessible across the state and nation and responding to changing employment demands. Delivering the quality instruction expected of a research university, our online master’s and doctoral programs are taught by our esteemed faculty members and build upon our century-old reputation as an educational leader in the Northwest. 

Online graduate students can earn a degree from one of our top-ranked national programs around their existing obligations and have access to the same opportunities and resources, including the on-campus library, research projects, scholarships, and teaching assistantships. If you’ve thought about returning to school but require more flexibility due to your full-time job and raising a family, advance your career with any of the programs listed here.

Available via online or distance learning: 

• Climate Change , P.S.M.
• Geographic Information Skills, Mapping, and Monitoring , P.S.M.
• Precision Nutrition for Human and Animal Health , P.S.M.
• Sustainable Soil and Land Systems , P.S.M.
• Water Resources , P.S.M.

College of Business and Economics

• Online Master of Business Administration , M.B.A.
• Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership , M.S.
• Educational Leadership , M.Ed.
• Curriculum and Instruction , M.Ed.
• Physical Education , M.Ed.
• Special Education , M.Ed.
• Education , Ed.D., Ph.D. (may vary from all to mostly online)

Engineering

• Civil Engineering , M.Engr.
• Computer Engineering , M.S., M.Engr.
• Computer Science , M.S.
• Cybersecurity , M.S.
• Electrical Engineering , M.S., M.Engr.
• Engineering Management , M.Engr.
• Geological Engineering, , M.S.
• Mechanical Engineering , M.Engr.
• Power System Protection and Relaying, Certificate
• Secure and Dependable Computing Systems, Certificate
• Technology Management , M.S.

Letters, Arts and Social Sciences

• Music , M.Mus.
• Public Administration , M.P.A.
• Psychology: Human Factors , M.S.
• Theatre Arts , MFA

Natural Resources and Environmental Science

• Environmental Science, M.S.
• Environmental Education and Science Communication, Certificate
• Master of Natural Resources, M.N.R.
• Fire Ecology, Management and Technology , Certificate
• Remote Sensing of the Environment, Certificate
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Aspects of Sustainable Planning Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Habitat Assessment Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Intelligence Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geotechnician Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: GIS Programming Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Natural Hazards and Emergency Planning Application , M.S.
• Statistical Science , M.S. 
• Teaching Mathematics , M.A.T.

The University of Idaho General Catalog is available online.

Distance Learning Versus Online Graduate Degrees

U of I’s online graduate degrees utilize two distinct formats. Online learning uses pre-recorded, or asynchronous, lectures that students can then review on their own time. Distance learning simulates a real-time virtual classroom. Wherever an online student is located, they have direct access to a traditional classroom environment where they can interact and participate in discussions with their fellow students and instructors.

The Benefits of U of I’s Online Graduate Programs 

Whichever online degree you begin, being an online learning student at U of I comes with a host of benefits.

• Flexibility: We design our online master’s and doctoral programs around the schedules of working adults, allowing you to maintain existing employment, family, and seasonal commitments without altering your schedule or taking a hit in income.
• Quality: We’re one of the region’s most respected research universities. Whether the class is pre-recorded or virtual, our leading faculty members deliver the same depth and detail of instruction that you expect in an on-campus classroom.
• Place-Based Degrees: Especially where research is concerned, our faculty members partner with regional organizations to support our online graduate students as they complete a place-based thesis or non-thesis research project. You, in turn, can conduct guided research relevant to your geographic region without ever setting foot on campus and may even be able to do so through your existing employer.
• Scholarships: Many erroneously believe that scholarships are off the table to online graduate students. Supporting your endeavors and professional growth, the University of Idaho has opened up teaching assistant opportunities and place-based scholarships to online students.
• Affordability: No matter where you are in the country or world, all online courses for master’s and doctoral programs are charged at our in-state rate. 
• Ahead of the Curve: The University of Idaho championed distance learning ahead of everyone else with our innovative Engineering Outreach program. We introduced these degrees over 35 years ago, and while we’ve adjusted delivery methods to available technologies, our commitment toward advancing your career through quality education has not wavered.

Learn More About U of I’s Online Graduate Degrees

Thinking about enrolling in an online graduate degree program? To get your questions answered, reach out to the College of Graduate Studies by email or by phone at 208-885-2647, or request additional information today .

7 Best universities for Actuarial Science in Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Russia ranked based on their research performance in Actuarial Science. A graph of 4.38K citations received by 2.57K academic papers made by 7 universities in Russia was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. National Research University Higher School of Economics

For Actuarial Science

2. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

3. Moscow State University

4. St. Petersburg State University

5. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

6. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

7. Moscow State Institute of International Relations

The best cities to study Actuarial Science in Russia based on the number of universities and their ranks are Moscow and Saint Petersburg .

Business subfields in Russia

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Spring Semester Update and Looking Forward to 2024-25

May 13, 2024

Dear Alumni, Board Members and Friends,

The University of Wisconsin-Madison commencement was on Saturday and we’re so excited to celebrate the Real Estate Class of 2024!  We’re proud of the many accomplishments of our students and look forward to seeing their real estate careers unfold.   

On behalf of our faculty, staff, and students, we thank you for your commitment to the success of our students. You’ve helped us plan amazing field trips; shared your expertise in the classroom; presented on conference panels; and generously provided financial support for student scholarships and activities.  Our graduates are well-prepared for their careers because of the support of our alumni, board members and friends like you.

Reflecting on a Banner Year As we look back on all that we have accomplished this year, we believe there is no other program, graduate or undergraduate, that provides deeper learning experiences in real estate and urban land economics than those provided by the Wisconsin Real Estate Program.  This is reflected in the #1 ranking of the Wisconsin Undergraduate Real Estate Program by U.S. News and World Report , 2023-24 and the #5 ranking of the Wisconsin Real Estate MBA Program. Our Real Estate students also participated in a record number of applied learning activities, including field trips to Boston, London, L.A., Milwaukee and Chicago to name a few.  Three student teams placed first in highly competitive case competitions, and we also partnered with Harrison Street to host a new Private Equity Case Competition last fall. The Center hosted three major world-class conferences for board members, alumni industry professionals. All had capacity attendance and featured industry thought leaders. 

As we close the 2023-24 academic year on a high note, the planning for upcoming events and initiatives is well underway. We’re pleased to share some our plans and initiatives below.

2024-25 Initiatives and Events

Looking Forward to Another Year of Record Enrollments

• 700+ BBA Students  based on recent enrollment figures.
• 23 Real Estate MBA Students:  14 first-year and 9 second-year students for a total of 23 MBA students.
• 50+ MSRE Students :  40+ MSRE students are enrolled so far for Fall 2024 with 10+ pending MSRE enrollment decisions, as well as 7 returning MSRE students who enrolled in Spring 2024.
• 23 Global Real Estate Master’s   Students  enrolled to date.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum

• The Graaskamp Center will be developing and launching a new Real Estate Tutoring Program for students who need support in their real estate courses. We’ve hired several top students to serve as tutors and to help us build the program.
• Launch of a new BBA capstone course which builds upon the concepts taught in Real Estate Finance, Real Estate Valuations, and applies many of the topics covered in the entire real estate curriculum.  Read the article.
• New ASHD courses “Housing Justice” and “Affordable Housing,” debuted in Spring 2024, to be offered again in Fall.
• Student tours will focus on affordable and sustainable housing developments are planned for Madison and Chicago in Fall and Spring.
• Extensive outreach has yielded a growing list of over 50 firms poised to offer student jobs, internships, and/or participate in ASHD curriculum and events.  

Expanded Co-Curricular and Applied Learning Activities

• Expanded WREAA-supported field trips and an active Real Estate Club and Women in Real Estate organizations engage student minds and apply the knowledge.
• Undergraduate field trips are being planned to Minnesota in the Fall and Chicago and Milwaukee in the Spring.
• The Real Estate Private Equity Club and the Graaskamp Center are planning the second annual Harrison Street Case Competition.
• The Global Real Estate Master’s Program has students field trips planned for Chicago and NYC.
• Lu Han, Nathan F. Brand Chair Professor in Real Estate and Urban Economics, received the WSB Erwan A. Gaumnitz Distinguished Research  Award .  Lu has distinguished herself as one of the pre-eminent Urban and Real Estate economists in the world. Her research focuses on three key aspects of urban economics and real estate: affordability, sustainability, and inequality.
• Faculty members of the Wisconsin Real Estate Program are active researchers and academics at the frontier of knowledge in the fields of real estate economics, housing and finance. They regularly have articles published in top academic journals and frequently participate in conferences around the world.

Leadership Transitions

• The search for the new Graaskamp Center Director is underway with an anticipated hire date in early June.  Another position will be posted this summer for a leadership position to oversee the Graaskamp Board of Advisors and the Real Estate Private Equity Track.  Please contact Lee Gottschalk at [email protected] if you have questions.

Fall Events – Many More to Come!

• September 12-13: WREAA Trends Conference, Chicago
• September 25: Real Estate Club Career Fair, UW-Madison Campus
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• Throughout the year: Five new Graaskamp on the Road events will be hosted in cities such as Denver, Miami and more.

On behalf of the Wisconsin Real Estate Program staff and faculty, we want to thank you again for your continued engagement and support.  Wishing you all a great summer!

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Early Careers: Retirement Actuarial Internship – Philadelphia – Summer 2024

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The Business

Create your future.   Join our Retirement consulting team in providing expertise in retirement consulting to support global organizations in optimizing the effectiveness of their employee retirement. Whether a client has a defined benefit pension or a defined contribution plan, we work with them to determine the right approach to designing, funding, investing, communicating, governing and employee management that fits their specific goals.  You will also learn about all the services that Willis Towers Watson offers their clients and how they complement and enhance our retirement consulting practice. 

  Explore an opportunity.   Gain direct exposure to real client assignments and meetings which will draw on your imagination and creativity as well as your ability to analyze data, solve problems, develop solutions, and share your results.  In this role, you’ll experience a balance of expanding your technical and industry knowledge and developing your problem solving and communications skills, while benefiting from working in a close-knit and supportive team environment.   

Learn the industry.  Kickoff the internship at a multi-day session with other interns across the local region to network and learn about WTW from various leaders amongst the Retirement business. Throughout the summer, engage in a robust training program within your local office in order to enhance your understanding of basic pension consulting.  

Grow with mentorship.  You will have close interaction and support throughout the summer from your very own Lead Retirement Consultant mentor. This consultant will work with you on client assignments, give you an inside look at how the business works, and advise you on future career growth .  

Work towards becoming a credentialed actuary.  Accepted applicants will be eligible for a comprehensive actuarial exam study program, including paid study hours and exam coaching to assist in attaining an accredited actuarial designation. 

Love your work.   You will partner with consultants to provide technical actuarial and consulting support on projects like: 

• Designing, funding, pricing, and the implementation and management of retirement programs
• Preparing and assistance with the delivery of client presentations and communications
• Competitive benchmarking analysis of benefit plan designs
• Corporate restructuring and capital enhancement initiatives (demutualization, securitization, mergers & acquisitions)
• Forecasting future pension plan costs
• Performing annual pension (qualified and nonqualified) and post-retirement medical valuations for a variety of clients
• Assisting with completion of plan reporting and filing requirements
• Performing plan administrative tasks such as completing benefit calculations, reviewing plan documents and SPDs, and producing benefit statements
• Analyzing de-risking options for defined benefit plans (bulk lump sums, retiree annuity purchases, plan terminations)
• Progress towards a Bachelors or Master’s degree in actuarial science, mathematics, statistics, finance or any other major with significant quantitative course work with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 (Junior standing preferred; Sophomore considered with other relevant internship experience)
• Successful completion of one or more actuarial exams highly preferred
• Work experience that demonstrates strong technical and/or client service skills
• Passion for solving problems and sharing solutions to exceed the standards of the client
• Ability to be a self-starter and work independently, but also cooperatively in a close team environment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent Microsoft Office skills, particularly in Excel
• Accepting applications from candidates that graduate with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree between December 2023 through June 2025

The Application-Interview Process:

Step 1: Online application, including resume/CV

Step 2: Online assessments and Video Interview

Step 3: Virtual Interview with business

Step 4: Offer and on-boarding

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range and benefits information for this position are being included in accordance with requirements of various state/local pay transparency legislation. Please note that base salaries may vary for different individuals in the same role based on several factors, including but not limited to location of the role, individual competencies, education/professional certifications, qualifications/experience, performance in the role and potential for revenue generation (Producer roles only).

Compensation

The hourly rate being offered for this role is $26-$33/hr. USD.

This role is also eligible for over-time.

Company Benefits

WTW provides a competitive benefit package which includes the following (eligibility requirements apply):

• Retirement Benefits: Contributory Pension Plan and Savings Plan (401k).

WTW Work Flex:

At WTW, we trust you to know your work and the people, tools and environment you need to be successful. The majority of our colleagues work in a ”hybrid” style, with a mix of remote, in-person and in-office interactions dependent on the needs of the team, role and clients. Our flexibility is rooted in trust and “hybrid” is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Visit our career site for more information: https://careers.wtwco.com/wtw-work-flex/

Recruiting tips:

WTW specializes in preparing for the unknown. Here’s how to get ready for the big day: https://careers.wtwco.com/hints-and-tips/

EOE, including disability/vets

To please Putin, universities purge liberals and embrace patriots

Russian university leaders are imbuing the country’s education system with patriotism to favor Putin, quashing Western influences and dissent.

Two weeks before the start of his 25th year as Russia’s supreme political leader, Vladimir Putin made a sweeping proclamation: “Wars are won by teachers.”

The remark, which Putin repeated twice during his year-end news conference in December, shed light on a campaign he is waging that has received little attention outside wartime Russia: to imbue the country’s education system with patriotism, purge universities of Western influences, and quash any dissent among professors and students on campuses that are often hotbeds of political activism.

At St. Petersburg State University, this meant dismantling a prestigious humanities program called the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences. For more than a decade, until May 2022, the faculty — or college — was led by Alexei Kudrin, a liberal economist and former finance minister who had been a close associate of Putin’s since the early 1990s, when they were deputy mayors together in St. Petersburg.

“We had many classes on U.S. history, American political life, democracy and political thought, as well as courses on Russian history and political science, history of U.S.-Russian relations, and even a course titled ‘The ABCs of War: Causes, Effects, Consequences,’” said a student at the faculty, also known as Smolny College. “They are all gone now,” the student said, speaking on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution.

About this series

In a radical reshaping of Russia’s education system, curriculums are being redrawn to stress patriotism and textbooks rewritten to belittle Ukraine, glorify Russia and whitewash the totalitarian Soviet past. These changes — the most sweeping to schooling in Russia since the 1930s — are a core part of Putin’s effort to harness the war in Ukraine to remaster his country as a regressive, militarized state.

Since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, leaders of Russian universities, which are overwhelmingly funded by the state, have zealously adopted the Kremlin’s intolerance of any dissent or self-organization, according to an extensive examination by The Washington Post of events on campuses across Russia, including interviews with students and professors both still in the country and in exile.

Professors who spoke out against the war, or allowed safe spaces for students to question it, have been fired. Students who picketed or posted on social media for peace were expelled.

Meanwhile, those who volunteer to fight in Ukraine have been celebrated in line with Putin’s promises that war heroes and their descendants will become the new Russian elite, with enhanced social benefits, including special preference for children seeking to enter top academic programs. Normally, such programs require near-perfect grades and high scores on competitive exams — uniform standards that applicants from all societal backgrounds have relied on for decades.

And the most fundamental precept of academic life — the freedom to think independently, to challenge conventional assumptions and pursue new, bold ideas — has been eroded by edicts that classrooms become echo chambers of the authoritarian nativism and historical distortions that Putin uses to justify his war and his will.

As a result, a system of higher learning that once was a beacon for students across the developing world is now shutting itself off from peer academies in the West, severing one of the few ties that had survived years of political turbulence. Freedom of thought is being trampled, if not eradicated. Eminent scholars have fled for positions abroad, while others said in interviews that they are planning to do so.

At the Russian State University for the Humanities in Moscow, officials last July created the Ivan Ilyin Higher Political School, which is now being led by Alexander Dugin, a fervent pro-Putin and Orthodox Christian ideologue who was tasked with “revising domestic scientific and educational paradigms and bringing them into line with our traditional Russian spiritual and moral values.”

“There has been a catastrophic degradation in Western humanitarian history,” Dugin said at a January seminar on transforming Russian humanities education. “This is evidenced by gender problems, postmodernism and ultraliberalism. We can study the West, but not as the ultimate universal truth. We need to focus on our own Russian development model.”

How we reported ‘Russia, Remastered’

Last month, students pushed an online petition to protest the naming of the school after Ilyin, a philosopher who defended Hitler and Mussolini in World War II and advocated for the return of czarist autocracy in Russia. In a statement to Tass, the state-controlled news service, the university denounced the petition as “part of the information war of the West and its supporters against Russia” and asserted, without providing evidence, that the group behind it had no connection to students at the school.

Programs specializing in the liberal arts and sciences are primary targets because they are viewed as breeding grounds for dissent. Major universities have cut the hours spent studying Western governments, human rights and international law, and even the English language.

“We were destroyed,” said Denis Skopin, a philosophy professor at Smolny College who was fired for criticizing the war. “Because the last thing people who run universities need are unreliable actors who do the ‘wrong’ thing, think in a different way, and teach their students to do the same.”

The demise of

Smolny College

The demise of Smolny College

St. Petersburg State University, commonly known as SPbU, has long been one of Russia’s premier academies of higher learning. It is the alma mater of both Putin, who graduated with a degree in law in 1975, and former president Dmitry Medvedev, who received his law degree 12 years later and now routinely threatens nuclear strikes on the West as deputy chairman of Russia’s national security council.

In many ways, the university has become the leader in reprisals against students and staff not loyal to the Kremlin, with one newspaper dubbing it the “repressions champion” of Russian education. Its halls have become a microcosm of modern Russia in which conservatives in power are pushing out the few remaining Western-oriented liberals.

Like other aspects of Putin’s remastering of Russia — such as patriotic mandates in the arts and the redrawing of the role of women to focus on childbearing — the shift in education started well before the invasion of Ukraine. In 2021, Russia ended a more than 20-year-old exchange program between Smolny College and Bard College in New York state by designating the private American liberal arts school an “undesirable” organization.

Jonathan Becker, Bard’s vice president for academic affairs and a professor of political studies, said the demise of Smolny was emblematic of a wider shift in Russia as well as a new intolerance of the West.

“A huge number of faculty have been let go, several departments closed, core liberal arts programs which focus on critical thinking have been eliminated,” Becker said. “All of that has happened, and it’s not just happened at Smolny — it has happened elsewhere. But we were doubly problematic because we both represent critical thinking and partnership with the West. And neither of those are acceptable in present-day Russia.”

In October 2022, in a scene captured on video and posted on social media, dozens of students gathered in a courtyard to bid a tearful goodbye to Skopin, Smolny’s cherished philosophy professor who was fired for an “immoral act” — protesting Putin’s announcement of a partial military mobilization to replenish his depleted forces in Ukraine.

The month before, according to court records and interviews, Skopin was arrested at an antiwar rally. He ended up sharing a jail cell with another professor, Artem Kalmykov, a young mathematician who had recently finished his PhD at the University of Zurich.

That fall, the university launched an overhaul that all but shut Smolny College and replaced the curriculum with a thoroughly revamped arts and humanities program.

The dismantling of Smolny marked the resolution of a years-long feud between Kudrin, the liberal-economist dean, and Nikolai Kropachev, the university rector, whom tutors and students described as a volatile character with a passion for building ties in the highest echelons of the government.

It’s hard to describe the insane level of anxiety the students felt at the start of the invasion, and I’d say 99 percent of them were against it.”

Denis Skopin

Former philosophy professor at Smolny College

It’s hard to describe the insane level of anxiety the students felt at the start of the invasion, and I’d say

99 percent of them were against it.”

It’s hard to describe the insane level

of anxiety the students felt at the start

of the invasion, and I’d say 99 percent

of them were against it.”

It’s hard to describe the insane level of anxiety

the students felt at the start of the invasion,

and I’d say 99 percent of them were against it.”

In February, Sergei Naryshkin, the head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, sent a heartfelt birthday message to Kropachev, thanking him for his “civic and political activity” and for “comprehensive assistance in replenishing personnel.”

One student described how Kropachev once interrupted a meeting with students and hinted that he needed to take a call from Putin, in what the student viewed as a boast of his direct access to the Russian leader. Both St. Petersburg State University and Moscow State University were assigned a special status in 2009, under which their rectors are appointed personally by the president.

Skopin, who earned his PhD in France, and his cellmate, Kalmykov, were perfect examples of the type of academic that Russia aspired to attract from the early 2000s to the mid-2010s — enticed after studying abroad to bring knowledge home amid booming investment in higher education. But by 2022, the system seemed to have no need for them.

Video of the gathering in the courtyard shows students erupting in sustained applause, and one student coming forward to hug Skopin.

“It’s hard to describe the insane level of anxiety the students felt at the start of the invasion, and I’d say 99 percent of them were against it,” Skopin said.

After his dismissal, some students tried to fight the administration’s plan to dismantle the Smolny program.

“At one point we found ourselves in a situation where out of 30 original faculty staff, we had just three tutors left,” said Polina Ulanovskaya, a sociology student and activist who led the student union. “And the quality of education definitely suffered, especially all of the politics-related classes.”

Ulanovskaya said that on the political science track, only two professors have stayed, and many classes were eliminated, including a human rights course. There are now just two courses offered in English, down from 21.

With every new professor, Ulanovskaya said, she felt a need to test the waters. Would the word “gender” trigger them? Could she say something opposition-leaning? What would be a red flag?

Ulanovskaya opted out of writing a thesis on her main research topic — Russian social movements, politicization of workers and historic-preservation activists — out of fear that it would be blacklisted. Instead, she wrote about Uruguay.

“The main problem at the faculty now is that there is no freedom and especially no sense of security,” she said. “I guess there is no such thing anywhere in Russia now ... you can’t trust anyone in any university.”

A few weeks after The Post interviewed Ulanovskaya last fall, she was expelled, formally for failing an exam, but she and Skopin said they believe it was retaliation for her activism.

Another student, Yelizaveta Antonova, was supposed to get her bachelor’s degree in journalism just days after legendary Novaya Gazeta newspaper reporter Yelena Milashina was brutally beaten in Chechnya, the small Muslim-majority republic in southern Russia under the dictatorial rule of Ramzan Kadyrov.

Antonova, who interned at Novaya Gazeta and looked up to Milashina, felt she could not accept her diploma without showing support for her colleague. She and a roommate printed a photo of Milashina, depicting the reporter’s shaved head and bandaged hands, to stage a demonstration at their graduation ceremony — much to the dismay of other classmates, who sought to block the protest.

“They essentially prevented us from going on stage,” Antonova said. “So we did it outside of the law school, and we felt it was extra symbolic because Putin and Medvedev studied in these halls.”

They held up the poster for about half an hour, until another student threatened them by saying riot police were on the way to arrest them. Antonova believes the protest cost her a spot in graduate school, where she hoped to continue her research comparing Russia’s media landscape before and after the invasion.

Eight months after the graduation ceremony, authorities launched a case against Antonova and her roommate for staging an unauthorized demonstration — an administrative offense that is punishable by a fine and puts people on law enforcement’s radar. Antonova left the country to continue her studies abroad.

Ideological divides

The history college at St. Petersburg State has long been a battleground for various ideologies, with cliques ranging from conservatives and Kremlin loyalists to unyielding opposition-minded liberals, according to interviews with students and professors.

The February 2022 invasion of Ukraine caused a deeper split. Some students and professors openly praised Putin’s “special military operation,” as the Kremlin called the war, while others joined rallies against it.

“The war gave them carte blanche,” said Michael Martin, 22, a former star at the college — to which he was automatically admitted after winning two nationwide academic competitions and where he earned straight A’s.

Martin was a leader of the student council, which on the day of the invasion issued an antiwar manifesto quickly drafted in a cafe.

Another history student, Fedor Solomonov, took the opposite view and praised the special military operation on social media. When Solomonov was called up as part of the mobilization, he declined to take a student deferral and went to fight. He died on the front on April 1, 2023.

Soon after Solomonov’s death, screenshots from internal chats where students often debated history and politics were leaked and went viral on pro-war Telegram channels. In some, Martin and other classmates expressed antiwar sentiments, while another showed a message — allegedly written by an assistant professor, Mikhail Belousov — vaguely describing events in Ukraine as “Rashism,” a wordplay combining “Russia” and “fascism.”

In an aggressive online campaign, pro-war activists demanded that Belousov, who denied writing the message, be fired and that the antiwar students, whom they labeled “a pro-Ukrainian organized crime group,” be expelled.

“A cell of anti-Russian students led by a Russophobe associate professor is operating at the history faculty,” read posts on Readovka, a radical outlet with 2.5 million followers. “They are rabid liberals who hate their country.” Belousov was dismissed and seven students, including Martin, were accused of desecrating Solomonov’s memory and expelled.

Belousov has gone underground and could not be reached for comment.

“They essentially tried to make me do the Sieg Heil,” Martin said, recalling the expulsion hearing, where he said the committee repeatedly asked leading questions trying to get him to say the war was justified. The committee also asked him repeatedly about Solomonov.

“I said he was for the war and I was against it — we could argue about that,” Martin said. “I didn’t find anything funny or interesting in this — I’m truly sorry for what happened to him, but at the same time, I don’t think that he did something good or great by going to war.”

Martin said that as the war raged on, the university began “glorifying death” and praising alumni who had joined the military.

This narrative also warped the curriculum.

A few weeks into the invasion, the school introduced a class on modern Ukrainian history, with a course description asserting that Ukrainian statehood is based “on a certain mythology.”

They essentially tried to make me do the Sieg Heil.”

Michael Martin

Former student at St. Petersburg State University

Belousov, the former assistant professor, criticized a course titled “The Great Patriotic War: No Statute of Limitations,” taught by an instructor with a degree in library science. The key message of the course is that the Soviet Union had no role in the start of World War II — a denial of Russia’s joint invasion of Poland with Nazi Germany in 1939.

According to a government document reviewed by The Post, Russia’s Higher Education Ministry plans to introduce this course at other universities to ensure the “civic-patriotic and spiritual-moral education of youth,” specifically future lawyers, teachers and historians, and to “correct false ideas.”

“These are obviously propaganda courses that are aimed at turning historians into court apologists,” Martin said.

Martin was expelled days before he was supposed to defend his thesis. He quickly left the country after warnings that he and his classmates could be charged with discrediting the army, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison. A criminal case was initiated against Belousov on charges of rehabilitating Nazism.

“This is all very reminiscent of the Stalinist 1930s purges,” Martin said. “The limit of tolerated protest now is to sit silently and say nothing. There is despair at the faculty and a feeling that they have crushed everything.”

New Russian elite

To lure more Russian men to fight in Ukraine, the government has promised their families various sweeteners, including cheap mortgages, large life insurance payments and education benefits for their children.

In 2022, Putin approved changes to education laws to grant children of soldiers who fought in Ukraine admissions preferences at Russia’s best universities — schools that normally accept only students with near-perfect exam scores and impressive high school records.

Now, at least 10 percent of all fully funded university spots must be allocated to students eligible for the military preference. Those whose fathers were killed or wounded do not need to pass entry exams.

The new law solidified a previous Putin decree that gave special preferences to soldiers and their children. In the 2023-24 academic year, about 8,500 students were enrolled based on these preferences, government officials said. According to an investigation by the Russian-language outlet Important Stories, nearly 900 students were admitted to 13 top universities through war quotas, with most failing to meet the normal exam score threshold.

In areas of Ukraine captured by Russian forces since February 2022, a different takeover of the education system is underway, with Moscow imposing its curriculum and standards just as it did after invading and illegally annexing Crimea in 2014.

For the 2023-24 academic year, according to the Russian prime minister’s office, more than 5 percent of fully state-financed tuition stipends — roughly 37,000 out of 626,000 — were allocated for students at universities in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson or Zaporizhzhia, the four occupied or partly occupied areas of Ukraine that Putin has claimed to be annexed.

The relatively large allocation of tuition aid in occupied areas shows how financial assistance and education are central to Putin’s effort to seize lands in southeast Ukraine and absorb its population into Russia in violation of international law.

Deans of several leading Russian universities have made highly publicized trips to occupied Ukraine to urge students there to enroll into Russian schools, part of a multipronged effort to bring residents into Moscow’s orbit.

The Moscow-based Higher School of Economics, once considered Russia’s most liberal university, recently established patronage over universities in Luhansk, with Rector Nikita Anisimov often traveling there.

An inward turn

A few weeks after the invasion started, Moscow abandoned the Bologna Process , a pan-European effort to align higher education standards, as Russia’s deans and rectors strove to show they weren’t susceptible to foreign influence.

Higher Education Minister Valery Falkov said Russian universities would undergo significant changes in the next half-decade, overseen by the national program “Priority 2030,” which envisions curriculums that ensure “formation of a patriotic worldview in young people.”

Soon after Russia quit the Bologna Process, Smolny College was targeted for overhaul.

“The decision was an expected but distinct shift from the more liberal model of Russian higher education policy that emerged after the collapse of the Soviet Union,” said Victoria Pardini, a program associate at the Kennan Institute, a Washington think tank focused on Russia.

Another prestigious school, the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, canceled its liberal arts program in 2022 after authorities accused it of “destroying national values.”

In mid-October 2023, the Higher Education Ministry ordered universities to avoid open discussion of “negative political, economic and social trends,” according to a publicly disclosed report by British intelligence. “In the longer term, this will likely further the trend of Russian policymaking taking place in an echo-chamber,” the report concluded.

Russia’s position among

countries by number of

scholarly papers published

Source: Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics

of Knowledge

Russia’s position among countries by

number of scholarly papers published

Source: Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge

Russia’s position among countries by number of

Many international exchange programs have been canceled — some because Russian students now have difficulty obtaining visas. Still, a heavy brain drain is underway. “All those who could — they left the country,” Skopin said of his students. “Those who can’t are thrashing around as if they are in a cage.”

Martin is among those who got out — he was recently accepted into a prestigious master’s program abroad and plans to continue his research into 19th-century Australian federalism.

Skopin now teaches in Berlin and is a member of Smolny Beyond Borders, an education program that seeks funding to cover the tuition of students who leave Russia because of their political views. As of late 2023, an estimated 700 students were enrolled.