BA degree Program in Actuarial Sciences


The Department of Mathematical Sciences at SUNY-Binghamton offers a track in Actuarial Sciences of the BA degree in Mathematics. This program provides a strong preparation for an actuarial career. To obtain a BA degree in Actuarial Sciences a student must complete a minimum 12 courses. 10 courses should be from the Department of Mathematical Sciences as follows:

1. Calculus-Linear Algebra: Math 221, 222, 323 and 304.

2. Probability, statistics and actuarial courses: Math 346, 447, 448, 449 and 450.

3. Ordinary differential equations: Math 371.

4. Economics: ECON 160, 162, 360, and 362.

Students should be reminded that the most important factor for being hired as an actuary in an entry level position is to pass one of the two first actuarial exams.

The previous courses are a strict minimum. Students are encouraged to take further courses. Math 330 is highly recommended. Since it smoothes the transition from calculus to advanced courses in mathematics. Ambitious and bright math-loving students are exhorted to get a BS in Mathematics.

There are courses, not required in this program, which are very helpful in becoming an actuary, for example courses in accounting, finance and economics. Students are encouraged to take an introductory accounting course and courses in finance and economics, mainly the courses needed to satisfy the VEE requirements. Notice that by taking the economics courses in the BA degree in Actuarial Sciences and in the VEE requirements, a student satisfies some/many of the requirements for either a minor, or a BA, or a BS in Economics (see Economics undergraduate degrees). Math-448 can be used to satisfy the statistics requirements for a BA in Economics.

Actuarial work involves to use a computer, particularly Excell. Students are encouraged to learn how to use this program.

Students are also encouraged to take at least one writing course, preferably a business writing course. A lot of actuarial work consists in communicate results, mainly by writing, to nonactuaries.

Current descriptions of the undergraduate programs and courses offered in Binghamton University can fond in University Bulletin .


Association 1
Meeting of the Actuarial Association