Careers in Actuarial Science
What Do Actuaries Do?
Actuaries are business professionals who analyze the financial consequences of risk. They work on a wide variety of projects in diverse business environments. Here are a few examples of the various types of projects an actuary might encounter in different work environments, as listed at the website BeAnActuary.org:
- Analyze insurance rates, such as for cars, homes or life insurance.
- Estimate how much money needs to be set aside for insurance claims that have not yet been paid.
- Forecast the potential impact of catastrophes like hurricanes making landfall in coastal communities.
- Participate in corporate planning for events such as mergers and acquisitions.
How Do I Become an Actuary?
Many students enter the actuarial profession having earned a B.S. in Actuarial Science (or a related field) and having completed a series of required actuarial exams.
In the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science here at NIU, we offer strong academic programs that will help prepare you for a career in the actuarial profession. Additionally, our courses help you pass the preliminary actuarial exams needed to obtain certification and professional advancement as an actuary.
View current course offerings or follow the link below for more information about our academic programs in actuarial science:
Get Involved in Actuarial Science at NIU
- Join the NIU Actuarial Club to meet other students who share your interests and aspirations. Club meetings are open to students of all majors.
- Participate in an actuarial internship.
Contact Us
Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science
DuSable Hall 359
