The Maryville Master’s program in Actuarial Science is designed to accommodate professionals currently working in the field as well as students who have completed or are completing their undergraduate degree in actuarial science, mathematics, or a related field. The advanced coursework and professional internship opportunities of the program are specifically designed to prepare students to pass the exams required to obtain the professional designation of Fellow by the Society of Actuaries (F.S.A.).
The program offers two different paths to obtain the master’s degree: the Master of Science in Actuarial Science and the Accelerated Master of Science in Actuarial Science.
Master of Science in Actuarial Science
The Maryville University Math Department offers a 36 credit hour program (12 courses) leading to the Master of Science in Actuarial Science. The 12 required courses of the program are spread across four semesters, with three courses taken each semester. Other time is spent in preparation for Society of Actuaries exams and internship training. The student is also required to pass two professional exam which are offered by the Society of Actuaries.
The program allows for possible completion in three semesters. Courses are offered mainly in the evening and weekend to accommodate part-time working students. Courses offered jointly with undergraduate students are mainly in the day.
Accelerated Master of Science in Actuarial Science
This unique option enables the Maryville undergraduate majoring in actuarial science to complete the master’s program in just one additional year. In this option, four courses (12 credits) taken during the senior year as part of the undergraduate curriculum also count toward the master’s degree. The students complete 24 credits in the fifth year of study to complete the requirements of the master’s degree. Actuarial Science major students with 60 undergraduate credits, at least 30 at Maryville University, passed one SOA exam and GPA 3.6 can apply the early Accelerated Master’s Option. No GRE or TOEFL is required for Maryville students entering the master’s program.
Non-Degree Seeking Option for Actuarial Exams
Actuarial professionals may enroll in specific actuarial science classes to prepare for the series of professional actuarial exams. Students would be classified as non-degree seeking students for this purpose. Contact the Director of Mathematics and Actuarial Science for further information.
Actuarial Science as a Career
Actuarial science ranks high when compared to other careers judged on the following criteria: work environment, income, stress level, security, physical demands, and employment opportunities. Approximately one-half of all actuaries work for insurance companies, one-third in independent consulting firms, and the rest in federal and state government, corporations, and universities.
