Actuarial Science, MSc

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Course Overview

Actuaries are business professionals who use mathematics and statistics to assess and manage risk in areas such as insurance, banking, health, and government planning. 

Our MSc in Actuarial Science is designed for graduates from numerate disciplines who want to develop the mathematical and statistical foundations needed to pursue a career as a qualified actuary. 

You will gain highly marketable skills in applying mathematical and statistical methods to real actuarial modelling problems. Your learning will be supported by experienced and internationally recognised academics and industry professionals, ensuring you benefit from both strong theoretical grounding and practical industry insight.

Why Actuarial Science at Swansea?

  • 13th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026)  
  • Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025) 

Actuarial Science at Swansea University is highly regarded for its strong blend of mathematical, statistical, and business expertise, all essential for a successful career in risk analysis and financial decision making. 

You will learn from knowledgeable academics and industry experienced professionals who are recognised experts in their fields, many holding Fellowship or Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy. Their expertise creates a learning environment that combines rigorous theoretical training with practical, real world application. 

Throughout your studies, you will benefit from personalised support through small group tutorials and an active, welcoming postgraduate community. Elected student representatives ensure your views are heard, while the Swansea University Mathematics Society hosts regular academic and social events that bring students and staff together, fostering a collaborative and inclusive department culture. 

Based on the stunning Bay Campus, you will have access to modern teaching and research facilities in a vibrant coastal setting, an inspiring place to live, study, and advance your professional ambitions.

Your Actuarial Science Experience

In the first part of the programme, you will study a wide range of modules in actuarial science and related areas. In the second part, you will complete a substantial dissertation project, allowing you to apply your learning to an advanced actuarial or mathematical problem. 

You will be assessed through a combination of written examinations, coursework, and your dissertation, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate both analytical capability and independent research skills. 

Your studies will be supported by excellent facilities, including the main University Library, which houses an extensive collection of mathematics resources, as well as Digital Services. You will also have access to the departmental Reading Room, a dedicated study space containing the departmental library and a suite of computers. 

You will also benefit from purpose built facilities in the Computational Foundry at the Bay Campus, which provides state of the art study and teaching spaces designed specifically for mathematics and computational sciences. 

Actuarial Science Employment Opportunities

This programme will develop your advanced mathematical skills and knowledge, providing an excellent foundation for careers in mathematically demanding fields such as finance, insurance, data analysis, and engineering. It also offers strong preparation for further academic study, including a research degree in actuarial science or related disciplines. 

Potential graduate destinations include: 

  • Technical roles within insurance companies or actuarial consultancies, with opportunities to progress into management. 
  • Financial sector careers involving the mathematics of risk and financial modelling. 
  • Government or regulatory positions focused on risk analysis, forecasting, or insurance regulation. 

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

What our students say about Mathematics at Swansea

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