Actuarial Science

Actuarial science is a discipline of extraordinary analytical rigour, applying the mathematics of probability, statistics and finance to the assessment and management of risk in insurance, pensions and financial markets. It is one of the most technically demanding of all professional routes, and one of the most rewarding, with actuaries playing central roles in decisions that affect the financial security of individuals and organisations across the economy. At the London School of Economics, this four-year BSc with a placement year is delivered by the internationally recognised Department of Statistics and is informed by LSE's distinctive strengths as a leading social science institution.

You will engage with rigorous academic study in statistics, mathematics, economics and finance, and benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary teaching that prepares you to analyse and manage risk with a broad and critical understanding of the social, regulatory and ethical contexts in which those decisions are made. The placement year provides applied professional experience in a relevant actuarial, financial or analytical context, allowing you to test and develop your skills in a real professional environment and build the professional connections that support early career success. A year abroad is also built into the programme, extending your academic and international experience.

Qualified actuaries are employed across the insurance, pensions, investment and risk management industries, and the route to qualification runs through the professional examinations of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. The academic preparation an LSE actuarial science degree provides gives significant exemptions from these examinations. Careers in life insurance, general insurance, reinsurance, pension fund management, financial risk management and broader quantitative finance are the primary destinations.

Some graduates pursue academic research or roles in consultancy, public policy or financial regulation.