Program Overview

The actuarial science and mathematical economics programs at High Point University prepare students for some of the most exciting and in-demand jobs in the workforce. Economics is no longer as simple as “supply and demand.” Problem solving, abstract thinking and quantitative reasoning are among the most sought after attributes of new hires – and these are all skills sharpened by a serious study of mathematics. Further, economics is becoming an increasingly technical field that now makes use of almost every area of mathematics. A solid background in mathematics will give those wishing to excel in economics related professions a distinct advantage over the competition.

A Focused Curriculum

High Point University offers a Bachelor of Sciences in both Actuarial Science and Mathematical Economics.

The Actuarial Science major at High Point University was designed in consultation with local actuaries to give its students the best possible preparation for an actuarial career. Courses in finance, economics, and statistics have been accepted by the Society of Actuaries as satisfying its VEE requirements in Corporate Finance, Micro- and Macroeconomics, and Applied Statistics. The goal of the program is to produce graduates who have passed the first two actuarial exams (Probability and Financial Mathematics), completed the Society of Actuaries VEE requirements, and have developed through their coursework the skills to succeed in the actuarial profession.

Courses leading to a B.S. in actuarial science prepare students for an exciting  field. But what exactly is actuarial science? Actuaries put a price tag on risk.  They are the leading professionals in finding ways to manage risk and are
experts in:

•  Evaluating the likelihood of future events
•  Reducing the impact of undesirable events
•  Designing creative ways to reduce the likelihood of undesirable events

Actuaries work in all sectors of the economy, though they are more heavily represented in the financial services sector. Their work is the analytical backbone of the nation’s financial security programs, including insurance, Social Security and Medicare. Based on five measurement criteria – stress, working environment, physical demands, income and hiring outlook – “Actuary” was rated as the best job for 2013, based on research in 200 different positions in a CareerCast.com Jobs Rated report. Courses leading to a B.S. in Actuarial Science will provide sufficient depth to prepare students for a variety of careers requiring quantitative and analytical skills in business, finance and government. Such professions include, but are not limited to:

• Economist
• Actuary
• Bank examiner
• Market research analyst
• Financial analyst
• Marketing specialist
• Financial planner
• Statistician

Alternatively, this program equips students for a variety of graduate level programs, including studies in business, economics, public policy and law.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers a B.S. degree in Actuarial Science. To graduate from High Point University with this degree, students must complete the following:

B.S. in Actuarial Science

Requirements for a B.S. in Actuarial Science

ACC 2010. Financial Accounting (4)
ECO 2030. Principles of Macroeconomics (4)
ECO 2050. Principles of Microeconomics (4)
FIN 3010. Financial Management (4)
FIN 3020. Investment Analysis (4)
MTH 1410. Calculus I (4)
MTH 1420. Calculus II (4)
MTH 2410. Calculus III (4)
MTH 2310. Linear Algebra (4)
MTH 3110. Financial Mathematics (4)
MTH 3150. Probability (4)
MTH 3910. Numerical Methods (4)
STS 3200. Mathematical Statistics and Data Analysis (4)
STS 3210. Linear Statistical Models (4)
STS 3250. Time Series and Forecasting (4)
STS 4110. Life Contingencies (2)
CSC 1710. Introduction to Computer Programming (4)

Students will be advised in electing additional courses that will complement their career goals.