BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science with a Year in Industry
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- N323
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Would you like to build analytical systems to help businesses solve complex financial problems? Do you have a love of mathematics? If so, this course is for you.
Actuarial Science is constantly adapting to meet the needs of the ever-changing world of business and finance. As new techniques are developed, the old ones are replaced. Here at UEA, we recognise this, which is why our BSc in Actuarial Science with a Year in Industry is continually evolving to ensure we’re amongst the best actuarial science programmes in the world. On this course, you’ll spend 9 to 12 months on a work placement, gaining invaluable real-world industry experience.
Our actuarial science degree will provide you with an excellent grounding in actuarial science, data science and risk management, giving you the chance to accelerate your journey to becoming a financial professional, or an actuary, or work in alternative fields related to managing risk. You’ll be well equipped to play a crucial role in a large range of global companies. If you’re ambitious and bright, these skills will be the first step to a highly successful, secure, and well remunerated career. We listen closely to our industrial partners to ensure that our courses include the skills that they’re looking for in graduates.
We’re positioned within the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics. You’ll learn the key aspects of actuarial science and develop highly desirable skills in computing and data science. You can also develop expertise in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and coding in Python. You’ll become skilled in statistics, actuarial mathematics, financial mathematics, financial economics, and corporate finance, with further options to choose modules in computer science if you wish. These skills are needed in many highly rewarding professions, including becoming a fully qualified actuary.
Graduates from our degrees are highly sought after and the BSc can lead you into careers such as becoming an actuary, an investment analyst, an underwriter, a risk manager, or a data scientist.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll spend your third year on industrial placement in a commercial environment. Recent placement partners in the School have included Aviva, Lloyds Bank, NFU Mutual, Xafinity and LV.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement. However, we will, of course, offer significant guidance and support to help you with identifying and securing your placement.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the University. You and your industrial supervisor will give feedback during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year you’ll have the option to apply to be transferred onto the equivalent degree programme without a Year in Industry.
Accreditations
This course is accredited by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA).
Studying an accredited degree course means that you may be eligible for exemptions from some of the IFoA’s professional exams. This will depend on the modules you take and the grades you achieve. For a current list of exemptions please visit the IFoA’s website.
Study and Modules
Structure
You’ll commence this four-year degree by further developing your knowledge of mathematics, computing, economics and business. Each year you’ll have the option to choose a traditional actuarial module or, if you’re thinking about specialising in data science, you’ll be able focus on developing additional computing skills. Plus, we’ll help you hone the communication and presentation skills essential to anyone entering the financial sector.
Compulsory modules in the first year provide you with a clear understanding of mathematics, computing and problem-solving. You’ll build on and develop your pre-existing knowledge and start developing your awareness and understanding of actuarial mathematics, as well as acquiring some practical modelling skills. Options in year one allows you to choose between a skills-based module, taught in partnership with practicing actuaries, and an additional computing module, designed to develop your data science skills.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The Actuarial Science degree at UEA is taught through a combination of lectures, classes, seminars and lab work. Our lab work, classes and seminars are particularly crucial to your degree programme, as they're where we’ll reinforce and expand on the material covered in the lectures.
We also offer specialist actuarial modules, which are usually taught by qualified actuaries in a classroom environment, providing you with plenty of interactivity and real-world examples.
Independent study
Your formal teaching on the course will be complemented with individual study. You’ll be set formative work to complete between lectures and within classes, seminars and lab work, helping to cement your understanding of new material.
Learning to study independently is a key skill for all aspiring actuaries. It'll be developed gradually throughout the programme as your confidence grows.
Assessment
In year one, you’ll have a mixture of assessments. These include written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (closed and/or time-limited assessment). They combine theoretical understanding with practical application and are designed to test the range of skills and competencies required for the learning outcomes of each module.
You’ll be assessed by a combination of:
- Examination (approximately 75-80%)
- Written assignments, Demonstrations and Presentations (approximately 20-25%)
Structure
In the second year, you’ll be introduced to specific actuarial themes and taught about business in the context of the actuarial profession. Optional modules offer you the choice between a financial accounting course for actuaries, which is included in the accreditation agreement, and a computing science module. So, once again, you can tailor your programme to a more traditional actuarial science degree, or to one with a broader set of computing skills.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you’ll continue to be taught through a combination of lectures, classes, seminars, and lab work. As in year one, your year two classes, seminars and lab work, are a valuable opportunity for you to reinforce and expand on your understanding of new material.
The focus on independent work will continue, and you’ll gradually develop your skills and confidence as an independent learner as the course progresses.
Assessment
In year two, the focus on assessment will continue as before. You’ll be assessed by a combination of written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (closed and/or time-limited assessment). The particular assessments you’ll undertake will depend on your choice of modules.
Structure
In the third year, you’ll have the opportunity to study at one of UEA’s partner universities. This gives you the flexibility to expand your skills in an area of your choice. This year will sit outside of the professional accreditation agreement and as such you’re free to choose from a wide range of subjects in mathematics, computing, economics, business and many more.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your third year will be spent abroad at one of our partner universities, so teaching will be dictated by your host institution.
Assessment
Your period of study abroad is assessed through the assignments set by your host institution and the marks or grades awarded are mapped to equivalent marks at UEA.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll be able to focus on developing your advanced knowledge of statistics, mathematics and professional actuarial practice. You’ll also be given the option to complete a dissertation, as well as a module taught in partnership with practicing actuaries. Alternatively, if computer science is your preferred area of focus, you can choose to further develop these skills.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you’ll return to UEA and teaching styles will continue in a blend of lectures, classes, seminars and lab work. You’ll also be supported to develop your skills as an independent learner, which will be a crucial skill for your future career.
Assessment
In your final year, you’ll return to UEA and assessment will continue as before. You’ll be assessed by a mix of written work, presentations or demonstrations, and exams (closed and/or time-limited assessment). Assessment is dependent on your choice of modules.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Mathematics grade A.
Contextual offer: BBB including Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD plus grade A at A level Mathematics.
Contextual offer: DDM plus grade A at A level Mathematics.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus grade A at A level Mathematics.
Contextual offer: DD plus grade B at A level Mathematics.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A level in two subjects including grade A in Mathematics.
Contextual offer: D plus BB at A level in two subjects including Mathematics.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Maths, and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science pathway.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Mathematics with a Foundation year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL6 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches)
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2 including Mathematics, 2 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAAAA. Only accepted in combination with Scottish Advanced Highers grade B in Mathematics
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including grade B in Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Grade A in A level Mathematics
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL6 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches)
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during the year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
There may be extra costs related to items such as your travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
You’re strongly encouraged to purchase recommended texts for the actuarial modules as well as a copy of the Formulae and Tables for Examinations of the Faculty of Actuaries and the Institute of Actuaries. These can be purchased via the School at a discounted price at the start of each academic year.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
After successful completion of our Actuarial Science degree, your academic performance could earn you exemptions to the professional actuarial examinations set by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. This means that on graduation, subject to reaching a certain level of academic performance, you’ll be entitled to exemptions from CM1&2, CS1&2 and CB1&2. If you achieve a good degree class, you can expect to be fully qualified within two or three years.
Beyond becoming a professional actuary, you could choose to pursue a stimulating and influential career in a wide range of sectors, including business, insurance, pensions, banking, accounting and other financial services.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Actuary
- Banking professional
- Data scientist
- Risk manager
- Investment analyst
- Finance manager
Discover more on our Mathematics Careers web page.