Actuarial Mathematics BSc

Course overview

Actuaries are strategic thinkers who use their mathematical skills to analyse the financial consequences of risk. By applying mathematical, statistical, financial and economic theory to real business problems, they measure probability and calculate the financial impact of undesirable events.

The next generation of actuaries are in demand across both the private and public sectors. In addition to the traditional insurance and pensions industry, actuarial roles are now found in other areas where uncertainty needs to be closely managed – such as banking, investment management, consultancy, manufacturing and transport. The career options available across these sectors are both varied and financially rewarding.

Studying an actuarial mathematics degree at Leeds will enable you to develop a range of core mathematical and actuarial science skills. You’ll enhance your analytical and problem-solving abilities and learn advanced skills in statistical analysis, numerical techniques and computer applications. These, along with your logical thinking and problem-solving capabilities, will mean you will not only be intellectually stimulated, you’ll also be desirable to potential employers and well-equipped to begin your career.

Here at Leeds, we understand the importance mathematics has in everyday life, which is why we have one of the largest mathematics research departments in the UK which shapes the curriculum. This will equip you with the relevant knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in this highly valued specialism. This course is delivered jointly by the School of Mathematics and the Leeds University Business School, equipping you with the relevant knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in finance.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA/A*AB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics

AAA/A*AB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics plus Further Mathematics, or AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in AS Further Mathematics.

Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

GCSE: You must also have GCSE English at grade C (4) or above (or equivalent). We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Other course specific tests:

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in EPQ/IPQ/Welsh Bacc ASCC.

International Baccalaureate

Career opportunities

Mathematical skills are highly valued in virtually all walks of life, which means that the employment opportunities for mathematics graduates are far-reaching, with the potential to take you all over the world.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after.

Qualifying with a degree in actuarial mathematics from Leeds will set you up with the core foundations needed to pursue an exciting career. Traditionally, actuaries have been employed in the insurance and pensions industry, but there is increasing demand for their analytical skills in other areas of the private and public sector including:

• Banking and finance
• Asset management and investment
• Consultancy
• Manufacturing
• Transport
• Energy

The numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills you will develop, as well as your specialist subject knowledge and your ability to think logically, are highly valued by employers. This course also allows you to develop the transferable skills that employers seek.

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent graduates have obtained:

• Actuarial Analyst, Aon Hewitt
• Actuarial Consultant, Barnett Waddingham
• Corporate Tax Associate, Deloitte LLP
• Business Analyst, Energy Alloys
• Consultant, EY (Leeds)
• Actuary, First Actuarial
• Actuarial Analyst, Lockton Re
• Actuarial Trainee, Mercer
• Pricing Analyst, NFU Mutual
• Junior Analyst, Osool Asset Management
• Master Data Analyst, PPG Coatings
• Actuarial Analyst, ReAssure
• Trainee Management Account, Shackletons Ltd
• Actuarial Analyst, The Co Operative Group Investment Analyst, Towers Watson