Program Overview

Master's Degree in Actuarial Science

The Master's Degree in Actuarial Science is a graduate program offered by Ball State University, focusing on actuarial science and preparing students for professional examinations given by the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuary Society.

Program Overview

This program builds on a foundation of business and mathematics, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual interests through electives. The graduate degree in actuarial science includes coursework that prepares students for the professional examinations given by the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuary Society.

What You Will Learn

In this program, students will enhance their education with advanced, graduate-level courses tailored to their specific interests in the field. Students will also master:

• critical thinking
• up-to-date technical background in their field
• problem-solving skills
• presentation, oral, and written communication skills
• confidence through competence

Center for Actuarial Science, Insurance, and Risk Management

The Center for Actuarial Science, Insurance, and Risk Management connects students with real-world businesses, providing hands-on experience and allowing students to gain practical knowledge.

Program Requirements

This program consists of 30-33 credits, including financial mathematics and probability course requirements, electives, and a research component that includes a thesis. Students pursuing the thesis option must follow the departmental thesis guidelines.

Career Opportunities

A master's degree in actuarial science can help students begin a successful career as an actuary, advance their existing career, or position them to teach at the postsecondary level. Actuaries work in many industries, including:

• banking and investment offices
• government
• insurance
• higher education
• consulting

Program Details

• The program is offered by the Department of Mathematical Sciences.
• Ball State University is one of the few universities in the nation that offers a master's degree in the actuarial science field.
• The actuarial curriculum is reviewed by a board of Ball State alumni who are practicing actuaries.
• Small class sizes allow faculty members to get to know their students and provide one-on-one attention.
• Faculty members are enthusiastic about teaching, active in research, friendly, and student-oriented.
• Many actuarial employers recruit at Ball State for summer interns and full-time employees.