Actuarial Science Program Overview
Actuarial science uses mathematical data to determine, measure and manage the financial risks of the insurance industry. Actuaries are the mathematical backbone of the industry and they use their analytical skills, knowledge of business and understanding of human behavior to manage the complexities of our risk-laden society.
If economics, statistics and probability pique your interest, consider enrolling in the Actuarial Science program, which combines all three.
What You’ll Study
- Accounting, economics and mathematics.
- Risk and asset management.
- Financial trends and how to predict them.
What You’ll Discover
- Insight on insurance and insurance companies.
- Business development know-how.
- Practical application of statistics to finance.
What You’ll Take with You
- Analytical expertise in finance and probability.
- A deeper understanding of human behavior.
Why Choose Ashland University for an Actuarial Science Degree?
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- We’re one of only six private colleges in Ohio to receive an Actuarial Program designation from the Society of Actuaries.
- You’ll study accounting, economics, mathematics and risk and asset management as well as financial trends and how to predict them.
- You’ll complete curriculum that prepares you for two professional actuarial exams.
- You’ll fulfill all three Validation by Educational Experience requirements (Economics, Accounting and Finance and Mathematical Statistics) necessary to become a fellow of the Society of Actuaries or Casualty Actuarial Society.
AU also offers an Undergraduate Certificate in Actuarial Science.
Learning Experiences
Study actuarial science at AU to:
- Form close relationships with dedicated, award-winning faculty who have been recognized for excellence in education.
- Receive individualized attention in small classes.
- Use specialized computer resources in the departmental computer lab, including statistical software.
Students are encouraged to participate in the AU chapters of the Mathematical Association of America and the national mathematics honor society Pi Mu Epsilon. They are also invited to join AU’s Problem-Solving Group and participate in statewide and international mathematics competitions to enhance their problem-solving skills.
Internship opportunities allow you to gain real-world experience, college credit and a steady paycheck. Recent actuarial science majors earned internships at:
- Benchmark Insurance
- Findley (a division of USI)
- Great American Insurance Group
- Towers Watson
- Western Reserve Group
- Westfield Insurance
Sample Curriculum
Learn more about the Actuarial Science curriculum by reviewing the Four-Year Curriculum Guide, Academic Catalog and Course Rotation.
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
AU Dean's Scholarship
The Dean's Scholarship was created to enhance the undergraduate academic experience for new first-time and transfer students enrolled in a major within the College of Arts & Sciences. It is a merit-based, renewable scholarship of $1,500 that can be "stacked" on top of other awarded AU academic scholarships. In addition, students have the opportunity to participate in unique academic communities with a focus on career coaching and preparation.
Ashland University has been awarded a grant from the state of Ohio to provide Choose Ohio First Scholarships to outstanding students with interests in the natural and physical sciences. These scholarships support academically strong students who plan to continue to graduate school, health-related professional programs or employment in STEM industries after completing a bachelor’s degree.
A Promising Career
The median annual salary for actuaries was $120,000 in 2023. The expected growth rate in employment is 22 percent through 2033, much faster than the average five percent growth rate for all occupations. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Employers of Recent Graduates:
- Aubrey Curtis, ’22, actuarial technician at Encova Insurance
- Ryan Whitaker, ’22, actuarial rotation program associate at Nationwide Insurance
- Andrew Villers, ’22, assurance specialist at BDO USA
- Alec Baldosser, ’20, credit analyst at Park National Bank
- Dalton Skerlec, ’20, software developer at Medical Mutual
- Tyler Tokos, ’20, financial analyst at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
