Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science at Heriot Watt University UK is your pathway to a dynamic career at the intersection of mathematics, finance, and risk. If you possess a strong aptitude for quantitative analysis and are seeking a profession that offers intellectual stimulation and significant professional rewards, this programme is designed for you. You will delve into core areas such as probability and statistics, financial mathematics, and risk management, gaining a deep understanding of how actuaries assess and mitigate financial risks across various industries. This undergraduate degree equips you with the foundational knowledge and analytical skills essential for a successful career in actuarial science.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over four years, providing a comprehensive and progressive learning experience. You will engage with subjects ranging from introductory calculus and economics in your first year to advanced topics like survival models, portfolio theory, and risk theory in your later years. The curriculum is structured to build your expertise incrementally, culminating in a significant project in your third year and specialised modules in your final year, potentially including financial economics and risk management techniques. You will graduate with a solid understanding of actuarial principles, prepared for roles in insurance, pensions, finance, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in mathematics, statistics, and finance essential for actuarial careers. Students will explore calculus, probability, statistical practice, and financial reporting in their initial years, progressing to advanced topics like multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and actuarial mathematics. The curriculum further delves into specialized areas such as life insurance mathematics, stochastic processes, derivative markets, and risk theory, preparing graduates for professional actuarial roles.

1 Year 1

Calculus A Compulsory
Topics in Statistical Practice Compulsory
Calculus B Compulsory
Professional Development Planning Compulsory
Elements of Probability Compulsory
Finance and Financial Reporting Optional
Introductory Economics Optional
Introduction to University Mathematics Optional

2 Year 2

Multivariable Calculus and Real Analysis A Compulsory
Linear Algebra Compulsory
Actuarial and Financial Mathematics A Compulsory
Algorithmic and Scientific Programming Compulsory
Probability and Statistics A Compulsory
Multivariable Calculus and Real Analysis B Compulsory
Actuarial and Financial Mathematics B Compulsory
Probability and Statistics B Compulsory
Finance and Financial Reporting Optional
Numerical Analysis A Optional
Database Management Systems Optional

3 Year 3

Life Insurance Mathematics A Optional
Statistical Models A Optional
Portfolio Theory and Asset Models Optional
Stochastic Processes Optional
Year Abroad Waterloo A Optional
Life Insurance Mathematics B Optional
Year Abroad Waterloo B2 Optional
Derivative Markets and Discrete Time Finance Optional
Statistical Models B Optional
Year Abroad - Melbourne A Optional
Survival Models Optional
Year Abroad Waterloo B1 Optional

4 Year 4

Introductory Economics Optional
Optimisation Optional
Statistical Machine Learning Optional
Continuous-Time Finance Optional
Year Abroad - Melbourne B Optional
Pensions Optional
Statistical Computing Optional
Financial Mathematics Optional
Portfolio Theory and Asset Models Optional
Further Statistical Methods Optional
Life Office Practice Optional
Risk Theory Optional
Time Series Optional
Financial Economics 2 Optional
Risk Management: Techniques and Tools Optional
Bayesian Inference & Computational Methods Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

12% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,844.00 USD 34,884.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 135,498.00 USD 139,538.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsAviation Maintenance & RepairAviation Safety & RegulationIndustry 4.0 & Digital ManufacturingInvestment Management & Asset ManagementNuclear EnergyResearch & Product DevelopmentTax & Legal ComplianceUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Aviva

Deloitte

EY

Leornado

Lloyds Banking Group

NatWest Group

SLB

Sainsbury's

Why Study BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can choose from several tests. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 79 or IELTS overall score of 6.0 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles related to this degree include Actuary, Risk Analyst, Financial Consultant, and Insurance Underwriter.

What will I actually study in this course?

Our BSc Actuarial Science degree programme is ideal if you love maths and are looking for a course that offers a rewarding career – both intellectually and financially. As 30% of teaching staff are qualified actuaries, on this programme you’ll gain up to date industry knowledge and skills applicable to the working world. There are also opportunities to undertake paid industry placements and spend an exchange year in Canada, Australia or on Heriot Watt’s own Malaysia campus.

Actuarial

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science course has an intake in September each year. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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