Actuarial Science, MSc

Up to 3 professional exam exemptions with this course

Accredited by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries

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Course Overview

An actuary is a business professional who applies mathematics and statistics to assess risk in a wide variety of contexts ranging from insurance and banking to health and government planning.

The MSc in Actuarial Science is designed to give graduates from numerate disciplines a grounding in the mathematical and statistical theories needed to become a qualified actuary.

You will gain key marketable skills in applying mathematics and statistics to the modelling of actuarial problems. This programme is accredited by the professional body for actuaries in the UK (the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries), and successful graduates will gain exemptions from up to three professional examinations.

Why Actuarial Science at Swansea?

  • Top 201-250 in the World in Mathematics (QS World University Rankings 2025) 
  • World-class facilities for mathematical and computational sciences
  • 100% of publications are world-leading and internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021

Your Actuarial Science Experience

In the first part of the course you will study a wide range of modules covering topics in actuarial mathematics and statistics. In the second part you will complete a significant dissertation project.

Over the course of your studies you will be assessed by a combination of written examinations, coursework and the dissertation.

Your studies will be supported by facilities including the main university library - containing an extensive collection of mathematics resources, and Digital Services.

Also available to you is the Reading Room in the centre of the department. This is home to the departmental library and a suite of computers.

Actuarial Science Employment Opportunities

The career of an actuary is regularly voted among the top three job choices based on intellectual stimulation, impact, and financial reward. Resources are available at https://actuaries.org.uk/qualify/become-an-actuary concerning opportunities for actuaries and the path toward becoming an actuary.

A Swansea MSc graduate with exemption from several IFoA professional examinations and a significant dissertation project has a distinct competitive advantage to begin an actuarial career in insurance, risk management, or investment and finance.  You might start with a role in financial modelling and statistical interpretation then progress steadily toward becoming a technical leader and business manager.

Modules

You will study a selection of compulsory modules and as you progress through your course you will have more flexibility to study the topics that interest you.

What our students say about Mathematics at Swansea

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