MAEd in Reading/Literacy
Maryville University, located in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, offers a Master of Arts in E...
M.S. in Actuarial Science
St. Louis, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Maryville University, located in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Actuarial Science. This specialized graduate program is designed to transform students into business executives who excel in financial risk evaluation and assessment. It provides a robust foundation in mathematics, statistics, and business techniques, equipping graduates with the skills to solve complex problems in insurance, finance, and related industries. Maryville's program is notable for its close alignment with the professional examinations required for actuarial designation.
STEM-designated: Yes, Maryville University's M.S. in Actuarial Science program is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa, as it allows for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period of up to 36 months after graduation. The STEM designation reflects the program's rigorous quantitative and analytical nature, underscoring the high demand for scientifically and technologically proficient professionals in the actuarial field.
Curriculum: The M.S. in Actuarial Science at Maryville University is a 36-credit hour program (12 courses). The curriculum is strategically aligned with the requirements for professional actuarial exams, particularly those of the Society of Actuaries (SOA). Core courses typically include Mathematical Statistics, Probability Theory, Derivative Markets, Financial Mathematics, Theory of Interest, and Corporate Finance. Students also gain proficiency in programming languages and tools relevant to actuarial work, such as R and predictive modeling. The program emphasizes the practical application of actuarial science, including preparing students for the Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) requirements of the SOA. An accelerated option is available for qualified Maryville undergraduate actuarial science majors, allowing them to complete the master's program in just one additional year by counting senior-year courses towards their graduate degree.
Research Focus: Maryville University's M.S. in Actuarial Science program incorporates a strong research focus by emphasizing the analytical and problem-solving skills required for actuarial work. While it is a professional degree designed to prepare students for specific industry roles and exams, the curriculum encourages students to engage in critical analysis and application of mathematical and statistical models to real-world risk assessment problems. The program's alignment with SOA exams, which often involve complex problem-solving scenarios based on research and statistical principles, inherently requires a research-oriented mindset. Faculty members, including the program director, are actively involved in modernizing the curriculum and tools, sometimes contributing to e-books and research related to the field, guiding students in understanding and applying advanced actuarial concepts.
Industry Engagement: Maryville University's M.S. in Actuarial Science program boasts exceptional industry engagement. The university has a strong reputation and close-knit network of actuarial alumni and professional partnerships with numerous corporate and civic organizations in the St. Louis region and beyond. These partners, such as Edward Jones, Northwestern Mutual, RGA, and Allstate, provide students with invaluable opportunities for paid internships and hands-on involvement in real-world projects. This direct industry exposure allows students to hone market-ready skills and develop a strong network of contacts even before graduation, contributing to the program's nearly 100 percent job outcome rate. The curriculum is directly shaped to meet the demands of employers in the insurance, finance, and consulting sectors.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Actuarial Science program at Maryville University inherently fosters a global perspective due to the universal nature of financial risk assessment and the global reach of the insurance and finance industries. Actuarial principles and methodologies are applicable worldwide, addressing risks related to mortality, morbidity, longevity, investments, and more, which transcend national borders. While the program may not include explicit international study components, the skills acquired—in areas like financial modeling, risk management, and data analysis—are highly transferable and essential for careers in multinational corporations, global consulting firms, or international government agencies. The profession itself is globally recognized, and Maryville's preparation for internationally recognized SOA exams further supports a global career trajectory for its graduates.
Location
St. Louis, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 16250
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 92 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 62 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.
Maryville University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to help make higher education more affordable and accessible. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and talents of its global student community, Maryville provides merit-based and need-based scholarships that reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Maryville University are automatically considered for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are renewable for multiple years provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance.
International Student Scholarships: Maryville offers exclusive scholarships tailored for international students to encourage global diversity and inclusion. These scholarships support students from various countries and academic disciplines, promoting cultural exchange and enriching the university community.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Maryville University provide scholarships targeted at students enrolled in specific programs such as business, nursing, education, and technology. International students pursuing degrees in these areas can apply for additional funding opportunities aligned with their fields of study.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Actuarial Science from Maryville University is a highly specialized and rigorous degree designed to prepare graduates for impactful careers in financial risk evaluation and assessment. This STEM-designated program stands out for its strong alignment with professional actuarial examinations (particularly those of the Society of Actuaries, SOA), providing students with the mathematical, statistical, and business acumen needed to excel in insurance, finance, and related industries.
Actuarial Analyst (Life & Health Insurance): This is a core role where graduates apply mathematical and statistical models to assess risks related to life expectancy, health conditions, and long-term care. They help design insurance products, determine premiums, and ensure the financial stability of life and health insurance companies.
Actuarial Analyst (Property & Casualty Insurance): Focusing on non-life insurance lines (e.g., auto, home, commercial property), these actuaries analyze data to forecast future events like natural disasters, accidents, and theft. They develop pricing strategies for policies and calculate reserves for future claims.
Pension Actuary/Consultant: Graduates work with companies and government entities to design, manage, and evaluate pension plans and retirement benefits. They project future liabilities, assess funding levels, and advise on compliance with regulations.
Actuarial Consultant: These professionals work for consulting firms, advising a diverse range of clients (companies, government agencies, non-profits) on various financial risks, including insurance programs, pension plans, and investment strategies. This role often involves varied projects and client interaction.
Risk Analyst/Manager: Leveraging their expertise in identifying, quantifying, and mitigating financial risks, graduates can work in risk management departments across various industries (banking, finance, corporations). They assess market, credit, operational, and other financial risks to protect an organization's assets.
Quantitative Analyst (Quant) in Finance: Actuarial science provides a strong foundation for "quant" roles in investment banks, hedge funds, and asset management firms. These professionals use advanced mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial markets, develop trading strategies, and price complex financial products.
Data Scientist (with Financial/Risk Focus): The M.S. in Actuarial Science heavily involves data analysis, predictive modeling, and statistical techniques, making graduates well-suited for Data Scientist roles. They can apply these skills to financial datasets, focusing on fraud detection, customer segmentation, and market forecasting.
Financial Analyst: Graduates can work in corporate finance departments, investment firms, or financial institutions. They analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide insights to support strategic financial decision-making, often with a stronger quantitative edge due to their actuarial background.
Predictive Modeler: In an increasingly data-driven world, actuaries' skills in building and validating predictive models are highly transferable. They can work in various sectors to forecast future outcomes, assess probabilities, and optimize business processes using advanced statistical and machine learning techniques.
Government Actuary: Government agencies at federal, state, and local levels employ actuaries to manage public insurance programs (e.g., Social Security, Medicare), conduct demographic research, and provide actuarial analysis for various public policy initiatives.
