Actuarial Science (B.S.)

Program Overview

The Actuarial Science degree program prepares mathematically talented students who have an interest in business applications for work in the actuarial science field. In this major, you will use a combination of strong analytical skills, business knowledge, and understanding of human behavior to manage risk. You will prepare for work in the actuarial field while connecting faith and disciplinary expertise in unique and challenging ways.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Actuarial Science program can:

1. Demonstrate the knowledge of key content for actuarial science majors including:

   • Calculus
   • Algebra
   • Mathematics of Finance
   • Regression and Time Series
   • Probability Theory
   • Economics
   • Corporate Finance

2. Demonstrate the scholarly skills needed in the field of actuarial science including:

   • Design computer programs and interfaces
   • Use Calculus appropriately in modeling and analysis of problems
   • Understand and develop rigorous proofs in mathematics
   • Effectively model and solve financial problems including forecasting and risk
   • Explain the results of their mathematical work plainly in terms appropriate to their audience
   • Identify key assumptions of their analyses and justify the validity and quality of their models and results
   • Understand key financial models within corporations

3. Demonstrate proficiency in specialized skills needed in an entry level position in actuarial science:

   • Modeling economic trends
   • Developing financial models and understanding how they fit into the larger corporate picture
   • Use regression and time series analysis to make business projections and decisions
   • Articulate the probabilistic underpinnings of their work and describe plainly the assumptions and limitations of their work
4. Discuss employment options within the actuarial field, as well as in related mathematical disciplines.
5. Meaningfully discuss the relationship between their faith and their chosen field.

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following (3):

QuEST Requirements