Economics and Actuarial Science

Economics and actuarial science is a pairing that combines two of the most rigorous and practically important of the quantitative disciplines. Economics provides the analytical frameworks for understanding how markets, incentives and institutions shape behaviour and outcomes at every scale, from individual decisions to global trade flows. Actuarial science applies mathematical and statistical methods to the specific challenge of assessing risk and uncertainty in insurance, pensions, finance and related fields, and is the basis for one of the most professionally valued and financially rewarding of all graduate careers.

At the University of Southampton, this three-year full-time degree uniquely combines these two disciplines.

You will develop a grounding in economic theory and quantitative methods alongside the actuarial science content that prepares you for the professional examination process. The programme includes access to Bloomberg trading terminals from the first year, giving you hands-on experience of the financial data systems that are central to professional practice in finance and risk. A placement year gives you direct professional experience in a relevant actuarial, financial or economic context, building the practical credibility and professional connections that employers value, and work placement opportunities are integrated throughout.

Graduates of this degree are exceptionally well positioned in the quantitative job market. The actuarial profession, which is accessed through the professional examination process of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, is a primary destination, with roles in insurance, reinsurance, pensions, healthcare finance and investment management. The economics component also opens routes into economic consultancy, financial analysis, government economic service roles and academic research.

Many graduates pursue the actuarial professional examination process alongside their early careers, with the academic preparation the degree provides giving significant exemptions. Postgraduate study in actuarial science, economics or finance is a further option for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.