There are many actuarial science programs to choose from at a variety of colleges and universities. While there are advantages to attending such programs, you should know that you don’t have to major in actuarial science to become an actuary, nor is an advanced degree required. Many students come to the profession from backgrounds in math, statistics, finance, economics and other areas. However, potential actuaries all seem to have a couple of key things in common an interest in, and an aptitude for, math and a desire to put math skills to use in a business context.
To earn an actuarial credential, you must complete a series of actuarial examinations, e-Learning components and other requirements through an actuarial membership organization such as the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) or the Society of Actuaries (SOA). The path you choose to become an actuary depends somewhat on your learning style. If you are comfortable with self-study and believe you can stay motivated on your own, you are free to study the recommended material and attempt the actuarial exams and other components on your own. That works well for many people. However, you may find it easier to prepare for the actuarial exams within a university setting, and in particular, within an actuarial science program or math/statistics/business program with an actuarial concentration.
A list of Universities and Colleges with Actuarial Programs is available to help you make the right decision. The colleges on the list are organized into two categories:
- Universities & Colleges with Actuarial Programs
- Centers of Actuarial Excellence
Schools on the list must meet certain requirements for their respective category.