MSc Actuarial Science

at Queen's University Belfast

Modules:
 

• Corporate Finance
• Actuarial Mathematics 2
• Actuarial Mathematics 1
• Computational Methods in Finance
• Economics
• Applied Research Project 

Normally a strong 2.2 Honours degree (with minimum of 55%) or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a highly quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Statistics, Finance, Computer Science, Actuarial Science or Economics. This MSc requires prior mathematical knowledge therefore a strong performance in quantitative modules with mathematical content is required. Applicants must normally have achieved 2:1 standard or above in relevant modules such as Calculus; Linear Algebra; Differential equations; Probability; Statistics; Econometrics.

The cost of studying at Queen's University Belfast varies largely depending on the type of university and the degree chosen. More often than not, humanities, arts, and education courses are less expensive than degrees in medical, engineering, or management. Furthermore, students who choose to study at the postgraduate level typically pay higher tuition fees, which again vary depending on the programme chosen.

Most universities provide scholarships or financial aid to students in order to help them offset their tuition costs. Students should be aware that additional course fees and incidental expenses may not be included in tuition. On average, international students can expect to pay £25800 annually, to study in Queen's University Belfast.

Actuaries primarily work in insurance and financial services, which are heavily regulated and require a number of statutory disclosures. Graduates from the Actuarial Science programme obtain employment across the world, but particularly in Dublin and London. Dublin has seen an influx of financial services companies either entering the market for the first time or increasing their footprint in Ireland, as a result of the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union. Another primary driver for the demand for actuaries has been changes in legislation. A recent example is the implementation of Solvency II for the insurance industry, which caused a spike in the demand for actuaries and enabled actuaries to develop new transferable skills. Furthermore, the International Accounting Standards Board has published the new accounting standard for insurance contracts, IFRS 17. This standard was implemented in 2023 and there is a healthy demand for actuaries to help insurance companies embed the standard.