Actuarial Mathematics with a Year Abroad
UCAS code NG30
- Study mode
- Full-time
- Duration
- 4 years
- Start date and application deadlines
-
- Start date
About this course
Studying Actuarial Mathematics at Liverpool will allow you to take your career in any number of directions. Choose this programme and you will become an expert in using mathematical models to solve financial problems.
Introduction
Mathematics is a fascinating, beautiful and diverse subject to study. It underpins a wide range of disciplines; from physical sciences to social science, from biology to business and finance.
At Liverpool, our programmes are designed with the needs of employers in mind, to give you a solid foundation enabling you to take your career in any number of directions.
Actuarial mathematics prepares students to be professionals who use mathematical models to analyse and solve financial problems under uncertainty. Actuaries are experts in the design, financing and operation of insurance plans, annuities, and pension or other employee benefit plans.
This programme is aimed at students who want to work in the world of insurance, financial or governmental services, where actuarial mathematics plays a key role. You will graduate prepared for a career as an actuary, combining financial and actuarial mathematics with statistical techniques and business topics.
You will cover specialised work in advanced actuarial and financial mathematics. You will then study more advanced ideas in both life and non-life insurance mathematics as well as stochastic modelling, econometrics and finance.
We have accreditation from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, the professional body for actuaries in the UK.
What you'll learn
- Core aspects of Mathematics such as finance, algebra, calculus and statistics.
- Teamwork
- Problem solving
- How to present and communicate clearly
- How to analyse and solve financial problems.
Accreditation
Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)
We have accreditation from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA).
Currently, our students can receive exemptions for CS1, CS2, CM1, CM2, CB1 and CB2 of the professional actuarial exams conducted by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, the professional body for actuaries in the UK.
Both accreditations can be achieved on a conditional basis. Accreditations depend on your choice and your performance on optional modules.
Accreditation in detail
Institute and Faculty of Actuaries
With close industry links, excellent teaching and quality content, this course is accredited by the professional Actuarial body The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA)
The IMA is the professional learned institute for mathematicians, supporting the advancement of mathematical knowledge and its applications to promote and enhance mathematical practice for the benefit of society.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
In year one you will study compulsory modules covering economic principles, algebra, calculus, statistics, mathematical IT skills, finance.
Modules
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two
In addition to the compulsory modules below, you will choose two optional modules.
We regularly review our teaching, so the choice of modules may change.
Modules
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year abroad (year three)
You are required to spend the year abroad on an approved placement at a European or overseas partner institution.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year four
In addition to the compulsory modules, you can choose one module from the optional module list below.
We regularly review our teaching so the choice of modules may change.
Modules
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MATHS SUMMER INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH PROJECT (MATH391) | 15 |
| APPLIED STOCHASTIC MODELS (MATH360) | 15 |
| FURTHER METHODS OF APPLIED MATHEMATICS (MATH323) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment
How you'll learn
You will be taught through a diverse blend of engaging teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, practical classes, video content, interactive learning sessions, independent study, and supervised project work.
The department of mathematical sciences offers a vibrant, stimulating, and supportive learning environment with highly motivated and exceptionally qualified staff, renowned for their world-leading research and teaching.
In year 1, lectures are supplemented by a thorough system of small-group tutorials; computing work is carried out in supervised practical classes. Key study skills, presentation skills and group work start in the first year and are developed later in the programme. The emphasis in most modules is on the development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which are regarded very highly by employers.
How you're assessed
Each module has an assessment scheme tailored to fit its syllabus. This might include traditional written exams, class tests, assignments, projects, group work, or online exercises with automatic marking and immediate feedback.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
- Digital fluency
- Confidence
- Global citizenship
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
- Research-connected teaching
- Active learning
- Authentic assessment
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Entry requirements
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
BBC (including Mathematics: B) |
| BTEC Level 3 national extended diploma |
DDM and Mathematics grade B at A Level. |
| BTEC combinations |
BTEC National Diploma DM plus grade B at Mathematics A level; BTEC National Extended Certificate M plus grade B at Mathematics at A level and grade B in another A level. |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced |
C in the Welsh Baccalaureate, plus BB at A level to include Mathematics grade B |
| Access |
Pass relevant Access to HE Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits with 27 at Distinction including 15 in Mathematics and 18 at Merit |
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Language study
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
- A dedicated languages degree
- A language as a joint or major/minor degree
- Language modules (selected degrees)
- Language classes alongside your studies
Your experience
You will be taught by internationally recognised experts within a friendly department.
Your course will be delivered by the Department of Mathematical Sciences.
Explore where you'll study
Meet Kate: studying Maths at Liverpool
Virtual tour
Supporting your learning
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
- Careers and employability support, including help with career planning, understanding the job market and strengthening your networking skills
- A dedicated student services team can help you get assistance with your studies, help with health and wellbeing, and access to financial advice
- Confidential counselling and support to help students with personal problems affecting their studies and general wellbeing
- Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
The academic staff in the Department are fantastic and their doors are all open if you want to go and talk to them.
Chat with our students
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Careers and employability
A degree in mathematics provides access to an almost limitless range of rewarding career paths. As a graduate with a mathematics degree from the University of Liverpool, you’ll have an extremely valuable set of analytical and critical thinking skills that employers value, enabling you to pursue careers in almost any field.
Graduates with a mathematics-based degree are in high demand across a broad spectrum of industries, thanks to their expertise in quantitative analysis, problem-solving, and mathematical modelling. Some of the key career paths include:
- Data Science and Analytics: Mathematics graduates are well-equipped to work as data scientists, data analysts, or business analysts. Their skills in statistical modelling, machine learning, and data interpretation are highly sought after in sectors like finance, healthcare, and tech.
- Engineering and Technology: Mathematics graduates can work in engineering roles, including systems engineering, computational modelling, and simulation. They may also contribute to software development, particularly in fields that require complex algorithms, like AI and cybersecurity.
- Operations Research and Logistics: Companies in manufacturing, transportation, and supply chain management often hire mathematics graduates to optimise processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Roles include operations research analyst, supply chain planner, and logistics coordinator.
- Healthcare and Biostatistics: Mathematics is increasingly used in medical research, epidemiology, and healthcare analytics. Careers may include a biostatistician, a health data analyst, or a mathematical modeller in disease forecasting.
The versatility of a mathematics-based degree allows graduates to enter nearly any sector that requires mathematical modelling, statistical analysis, and algorithmic problem-solving. The growing demand for data-driven decision making in today’s world ensures that career prospects remain strong, with opportunities for advancement and specialisation across fields.