Actuarial Science (Hons) Swansea University

Overview

The Actuarial Science (Hons) programme at Swansea University is a highly esteemed degree that merges mathematics with business acumen, preparing students for a rewarding career in risk management. Ranked 3rd in the UK for Student Satisfaction (Complete University Guide 2025) and 13th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026), Swansea University offers a unique educational experience. The programme is also recognised globally, being placed in the top 201-250 universities worldwide according to QS World University Rankings 2025.

Key facts

Students will engage with an array of modules that cover critical areas such as mathematics, accounting, finance, and economics, all aligned with the professional standards set by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA). Graduates can gain exemptions for up to six professional examinations, providing them with a significant advantage in the competitive job market.

Why Actuarial Science at Swansea University? One of the standout features of this programme is the access to expert faculty members, many of whom are recognised by the Higher Education Academy. These instructors bring a wealth of industry experience, ensuring that students receive high-quality, personalised support through small-group tutorials. Additionally, the Mathematics Department is located near the picturesque Swansea Bay, offering students a vibrant campus life with numerous social and sporting opportunities.

The new £32.5 million Computational Foundry building provides state-of-the-art study and teaching facilities specifically designed for mathematics students. This includes a dedicated Mathematics Reading Room, which serves as a quiet study area and houses a comprehensive library of resources for academic research.

For those interested in practical experience, the programme offers a range of opportunities to engage with industry professionals through internships and placements, enhancing employability upon graduation. The career prospects for actuaries are robust, with many graduates finding roles in insurance, risk management, and finance, often starting in positions related to financial modelling and statistical analysis before advancing to leadership roles.

Syllabus

The programme structure is designed to provide a comprehensive education in actuarial science, with modules spanning all three years:

• Year 1: Economics for Accounting and Finance, Accounting for Managers, Probability and Statistics, Finance
• Year 2: Probability Theory, Corporate Finance 1, Investments: Assets, Equities and Bonds, Credibility, Liability and Ruin
• Year 3: Cashflows and Interest Rates, Financial Mathematics in Discrete Time, Markov Processes and Applications, Machine Learning

Students will also have the option to select from various elective modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations.