Master of Science in Actuarial Science

Prepare for a career analyzing and evaluating financial risk with the Master of Science in Actuarial Science in the Fox School of Business at Temple University. Build competency around statistical analysis and financial theory with this master’s degree program, acquiring the knowledge to pass the many professional exams needed to become a credentialed associate or fellow. Develop the business acumen and the quantitative and qualitative skills to elevate your candidacy for positions at organizations including

  • consulting firms,
  • government regulatory organizations,
  • insurance companies and
  • investment banks.

This graduate program is housed in the Department of Risk, Actuarial Science and Legal Studies which is designated as both a Center of Actuarial Excellence and a Global Center of Insurance Excellence. We participate in the Society of Actuaries University Earned Credit program allowing you to earn credit for all eligible actuarial exams directly through your coursework. State-of-the-art curriculum combining technical skills and industry knowledge introduces and explores the full breadth of core actuarial concepts, including

  • valuation of certain and probabilistic cash flows (including life contingencies, financial derivatives and loss models);
  • actuarial modeling techniques;
  • insurance pricing and reserving (for both life/health/benefits and P&C insurance);
  • data analytics and predictive modeling;
  • business acumen, such as corporate finance, economics and accounting; and
  • enterprise risk management.

Courses taught by dedicated full-time and research-active faculty with actuarial credentials who maintain close relationships with leaders in Philadelphia’s robust insurance and actuarial communities. Weekly campus visits from these professionals present invaluable networking and career development opportunities for master’s students, often leading to internships or full-time work.

Careers

Using complex statistical analysis, actuaries measure potential financial risks for an array of organizations, including health insurance, life insurance and property insurance companies. After determining the probability of undesirable events such as financial risk, actuaries recommend methods of avoiding or reducing the impact of those events. The actuarial arm of a company is essential to organizational growth and sustainability in any dynamic industry. Learn more about actuarial science as a career path.

Discover career and internship opportunities for Fox Actuarial Science MS students.

A Fox professor aids two students in understanding a concept.

Who should apply?

Current and prospective Temple students most qualified to pursue a Master of Science in Actuarial Science typically hold a bachelor’s degree in the following areas.

  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • English
  • Finance
  • Mathematics
  • Natural sciences
  • Risk management and insurance
  • Statistical science and data analysis

A strong mathematics background (including calculus and probability) is essential for academic success in this program. Other skills and knowledge that can provide value for an actuarial career include

  • business acumen,
  • communication and interpersonal skills,
  • industry knowledge and
  • statistics.

Classes & Curriculum

The Master of Science in Actuarial Science is a 30-credit program that can be completed in three to four semesters of full-time studies or on a part-time basis. Classes take place at Temple's Main Campus, providing students access to the benefits of city life and connections to leading organizations. Courses offered in this program may include the following.

  • Actuarial Analytics
  • Long-term and Short-term Actuarial Modeling
  • Managing Human Capital Risk
  • Managing Property and Liability Risk
  • Theory of Interest

Learn more about Actuarial Science MS courses.

Related Graduate Degrees

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2023–2024 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,165.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,165.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

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Additional Program Information