Actuarial Science

1 - Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the key skills required by a trainee actuary, including data collection methods, statistical method development, analysis of statistical output.
2 - Model real-world problems using the appropriate framework and on that basis, make forecasts and analyse risk
3 - Demonstrate strong proficiency in appropriate computational methods
4 - Use the language of logic to reason correctly and make deductions
5 - Approach problems in an analytical, precise and rigorous way
6 - Give oral presentations of technical material at a level appropriate for the audience
7 - Prepare written reports on technical subjects in statistics, actuarial science, and finance in clear and precise language

As a graduate you can look forward to a career ranging from the traditional areas of insurance and pension consultancy to the rapidly expanding areas of investment and risk management. Throughout your actuarial career you can rely on the support and guidance of the actuarial profession, and upon qualification you can expect a rewarding career that will continue to offer opportunities for further development.

There will be opportunities for some students to complete their thesis as a paid research placement* with an actuarial company. The internships listed are examples of past placements and are a guide only: Allianz, AIG, Canada Life, Central Bank of Ireland, Irish Life, Mercer, New Ireland Assurance, Liberty Mutual and Greenval Insurance.

*Placements are secured through a competitive process and are not guaranteed

The MSc Actuarial Science offers potential exemptions from the Core subjects of the examinations of the Institute & Faculty of Actuaries (UK). If you have prior actuarial exemptions you may choose to study all or part of the syllabus for examination Core Practice 1 (CA1) of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (UK).* The programme is therefore suitable for students with no prior exemptions and for students who wish to add to any exemptions they already have. 

*No exemptions are offered from the examinations of the Institute and Faulty of Actuaries in respect of CA1.

Actuarial Science (F034) Full Time
EU          fee per year - € 14860
nonEU    fee per year - € 25590

***Fees are subject to change

Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website. Please note that UCD offers a number of graduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD graduate degree programme. For further information please visit International Scholarships.

• This programme is intended for applicants with degree in a quantitative area such as mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering or economics and/or finance. An upper second class honours or international equivalent is required.  Degrees in Commerce or Accounting do not generally carry sufficient mathematics and statistics content to make students eligible for the MSc in Actuarial Science.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.

School of Mathematics and Statistics Application Process FAQ

These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes 

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes

The MSc Actuarial Science (MSc Act. Sci.) is designed for students from quantitative disciplines who ultimately wish to train as an actuary upon completion of the programme. The MSc can help fast-track your career as an actuary by supporting you through the initial examinations of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (UK).