Mathematics, Actuarial and Financial Mathematics Concentration, M.S.
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Mathematics with a concentration in Actuarial and Financial Mathematics prepares students for careers in the insurance and financial industries. Students can choose from examination, thesis, or internship options to complete the program, which requires 36-42 credit hours. Graduates are in high demand due to their skills in analyzing and solving complex actuarial and financial problems.
Program Outline
Outline:
The Master of Science in Mathematics with a concentration in Actuarial and Financial Mathematics includes examination, thesis, and internship options. Students electing the examination option must successfully complete a written comprehensive examination, which may be taken no more than twice. Students electing the internship option must enroll in 3 hours of internship in actuarial science (ACSI 6910). Students electing the thesis option must enroll in at least 3 hours of Thesis Research (MATH 6640) and publish a thesis with the graduate school. The examination and internship options require completion of 36 credit hours. The thesis option requires completion of 36-42 credit hours. In addition, at most thirty percent of the total credit hours in the program may be at the 5000-level, and no more than two special problems courses can apply toward the degree.
Careers:
Graduates with a concentration in actuarial and financial mathematics are in high demand in the insurance and financial industries, as they have the skills and knowledge to analyze and solve complex actuarial and financial problems. In addition to traditional roles in banking and finance, actuarial and financial mathematicians are also in demand in the insurance, investment, pension, and risk management industries. They may also work in government and academia, as well as in roles related to data science and machine learning. Overall, the demand for financial mathematicians is expected to remain strong in the future. A majority of M.S. in Mathematics graduates pursue doctoral degrees. Many of our graduates go on to obtain a Ph.D. in mathematics; others enter MTSU’s Computational and Data Science (COMS) or Mathematics and Science Education (MSE) Ph.D. programs. Pure and Applied Mathematics concentration graduates pursue a variety of career paths. Many of these graduates go on to obtain doctoral degrees and a majority build careers in academics and/or mathematical research. Other graduates pursue careers in applied industry where they often work as data analyst. Finally, some graduates build careers in seemingly unrelated fields where they heavily utilize the advanced problem-solving skills they learned as mathematicians. Mathematics Education concentration graduates often continue teaching at secondary and early tertiary levels. The advanced credentials and subject knowledge gained through this program enable these graduates to teach high school courses with increased mathematical rigor, transition to community college teaching, and teach dual enrollment courses. Other graduates of this concentration go on to pursue doctoral degrees in mathematics education and build careers in academia and research. Actuarial and Financial Mathematics concentration graduates often begin careers as actuaries immediately upon graduation. Indeed, these students typically pass multiple actuarial exams prior to graduation and frequently find employment at their internship site. Other graduates from this concentration go on to pursue doctoral degrees in financial/actuarial mathematics and related fields such as computational and data science.
Middle Tennessee State University
Overview:
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is a large university with a small-town feel, located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It is known for its affordability, strong academic programs, and vibrant campus life. MTSU is a public university with a diverse student body, including a significant number of first-generation students.
Services Offered:
MTSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Financial Aid:
83% of students receive financial aid, with over $230 million in assistance available.Campus Improvements:
The university has invested $1.5 billion in recent campus improvements and renovations.Academic Support:
MTSU provides academic advising, tutoring, and other support services to help students succeed.Student Life:
The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience.Career Services:
MTSU provides career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
MTSU boasts a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students can enjoy:
Large Campus with Small-Town Feel:
MTSU's 515-acre campus offers a scenic, park-like setting while maintaining a close-knit atmosphere.Active Student Organizations:
Students can join over 200 student organizations and clubs, catering to diverse interests.Athletics:
MTSU has 17 Division I sports teams, providing opportunities for both participation and spectator enjoyment.Campus Events:
The university hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events.Student Union:
The Student Union serves as a central hub for students, offering dining, a bookstore, a game room, a theater, and more.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordability:
MTSU offers the lowest tuition among Tennessee's three largest universities, making it a highly affordable option.Strong Academic Programs:
MTSU offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate majors and concentrations, including highly ranked programs in areas like Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Audio Engineering.Diverse Student Body:
MTSU is home to a diverse student population, including a significant number of first-generation students.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, fostering a strong sense of community.Career Opportunities:
MTSU provides career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers.Academic Programs:
MTSU offers a wide range of academic programs across eight colleges, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Offers majors in fields like biology, chemistry, English, history, and mathematics.Business:
Offers majors in accounting, finance, marketing, and management.Education:
Offers majors in elementary education, secondary education, and special education.Engineering and Technology:
Offers majors in computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Fine Arts:
Offers majors in music, theater, and art.Health and Human Sciences:
Offers majors in nursing, health sciences, and human development.Liberal Arts:
Offers majors in communication, journalism, and political science.University College:
Offers a variety of general studies programs and interdisciplinary majors.Other:
- MTSU is the number 1 producer of college graduates in the greater Nashville area.
- MTSU is home to the first public Honors College in Tennessee.
- MTSU has more than two dozen Fulbright scholars.
- MTSU students, alumni, faculty, and staff have won 47 Grammy Awards since 2001.
- MTSU is known for its flexible programs that emphasize real-world projects and soft skills development.
Entry Requirements:
- Have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college
- Have an acceptable grade point average for all college work taken
