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.

Students seeking a B.S. in Mathematical Economics will be immersed in a well-balanced curriculum, preparing them for a wide variety of economics-related jobs or future graduate study. In addition to receiving a solid foundation in mathematics and economics, students will be given the opportunity to master principles of accounting, statistics, and financial management. Interested students will also have the opportunity to do individual research with the guidance from both a mathematician and an economist.

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.

Courses leading to a B.S. in Mathematical Economics 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 Mathematical Economics. To graduate from High Point University with this degree, students must complete the following:

B.S. in Mathematical Economics

Requirements for a B.S. in Mathematical Economics

MTH 1410. Calculus I (4)
MTH 1420. Calculus II (4)
MTH 2410. Calculus III (4)
MTH 2310. Linear Algebra (4)
MTH 3410. Differential Equations (4)
STS 2610 or STS 3200 (4)
STS 3210. Linear Statistical Models (4)
STS 3250. Time Series and Forecasting (4)
ACC 2010. Financial Accounting (4)
FIN 3010. Financial Management (4)
ECO 2030. Principles of Macroeconomics (4)
ECO 2050. Principles of Microeconomics (4)
ECO 3030. Intermediate Macroeconomics (4)
ECO 3050. Intermediate Microeconomics (4)
Two ECO electives at the 3000 level or above or MTH 4910, MTH 4920 and one ECO elective at the 3000 level or above (8)