College of the Sciences
Actuarial Science
Bachelor of Science | Major
Actuarial Science, BS
Master the art and science of risk management with our Actuarial Science degree.
You will learn to use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, making a significant difference to companies across many industries. Actuaries create and manage insurance programs that reduce the adverse financial impact of both expected and unexpected events, such as illnesses, accidents, deaths, or catastrophes. In addition, actuaries design healthcare and pension plans, making sure there are sufficient resources to pay health and retirement benefits while charging participants a fair price. Actuaries are also in demand in the growing field of enterprise risk management, helping companies analyze and hedge risks, and in predictive analytics, helping company leaders analyze data and make strategic decisions.
Questions? Contact Us.
Mathematics Department
Samuelson Hall Rm. 208
You belong here
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Mathematics Department Website
Courses
- ACCT 251 - Financial Accounting
- ACCT 301 - Accounting Skills for Non-Accounting Majors
- ECON 201 - Principles of Economics Micro
- ECON 202 - Principles of Economics Macro
- FIN 370 - Introductory Financial Management
- FIN 475 - Investments
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
- MATH 211 - Statistical Concepts and Methods
- MATH 314 - Probability and Statistics
- MATH 265 - Linear Algebra I
- MATH 272 - Multivariable Calculus I
- MATH 273 - Multivariable Calculus II
- MATH 299A - Seminar - Actuarial Science Major Orientation
- MATH 309 - Mathematical Computing
- MATH 410A - Advanced Statistical Methods I
- MATH 410B - Advanced Statistical Methods II
- MATH 410C - Advanced Statistical Methods III
- MATH 411A - Probability Theory
- MATH 411B - Mathematical Statistics I
- MATH 411C - Mathematical Statistics II
- MATH 418A - Financial Mathematics I
- MATH 418B - Financial Mathematics II
- MATH 489A - Actuarial Senior Seminar: Predictive Analytics and Actuarial Modeling
Sequences
Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics
- MATH 417A - Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics I
- MATH 417B - Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics II
- MATH 417C - Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics III
Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics
- MATH 419A - Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics I
- MATH 419B - Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics II
- MATH 419C - Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics III
Department-approved Electives
- ACCT 350 - Intermediate Accounting I
- ACCT 351 - Intermediate Accounting II
- ACCT 352 - Intermediate Accounting III
- ACCT 463 - Accounting Analytics
- BUAN 406 - Business Analytics
- BUAN 407 - Data Visualization and Management in Business
- ECON 325 - Introduction to Forecasting
- ECON 330 - Money and Banking
- ECON 332 - Public Finance
- ECON 424 - Introduction to Econometrics
- ECON 426 - Economic Research
- FIN 470 - Corporate Finance
- FIN 478 - Financial Modeling and Analysis
- FIN 480 - Portfolio Analysis and Management
- MATH 416A - Actuarial Science Problems II
- MATH 416B - Actuarial Science Problems III
- MGT 380 - Organizational Management
- MKT 360 - Principles of Marketing
The Most Comprehensive
We offer the most extensive actuarial science program available in the state and the broader Pacific Northwest. This approach ensures that students receive a thorough and robust education in the field.
Prepare to Pass
The CWU actuarial science program covers a wider range of content required for professional actuarial exams compared to other programs in the Pacific Northwest. This thorough preparation enhances readiness for certification and professional success.
A Full Major
At CWU, actuarial science is offered as a full major, providing a dedicated and focused curriculum. Unlike others, CWU's program ensures an in-depth and comprehensive educational experience.
Learn from the Experts
Our program features more credentialed actuaries on staff than any other program in the PNW. This concentration of professional expertise provides you with unparalleled mentorship and industry connections.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Courses
Courses are offered in person and online.
Salaries
According to the DW Simpson salary survey of actuaries, the average starting salary for exam-track actuaries is just under $80,000. The average salary for actuaries with 5-7 years of experience is $132,000.
Scholarships
The Mathematics Department awarded nearly $10,000 in actuarial science scholarships in 2024.
Why Study Mathematics at Central?
- Experience the Pacific Northwest’s best-in-class programs with high post-graduation employment rates including actuarial science and teaching science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
- Our faculty are more than just instructors, they are industry experts who can provide real-world knowledge that drives practical skill building.
- Experience personalized guidance and mentorship from our close-knit department and small class sizes with upper-level math courses having only 20-25 students.
Careers
Actuarial Analyst/Actuary
Consultant
Data Analyst
Data and Analytics Officer
Data Scientist
Project Manager