College of Arts & Sciences

Actuarial Science
  • About the College
  • Programs
    Undergraduate

    Undergraduate

    Actuarial Science
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: B.S.
    Activating Your Inner Actuary

    If a career in risk management interests you, consider Ashland University’s Actuarial Science program.

    Very few universities of Ashland University’s size have an actuarial program. In fact, it's one of only 15 colleges/universities in Ohio with an Actuarial Programs (UCAP) designation and 5 private colleges/universities.

    Students...

    Learn More about Actuarial Science
    Addictions Counseling & Prevention
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: AA, Minor
    The Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services

    The Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services offers a minor in addictions for students pursuing any bachelor’s degrees. The minor, in addition to a degree in psychology, criminal justice, social work, and nursing, fulfills the educational requirement for the...

    Learn More about Addictions Counseling & Prevention
    Applied Communication Studies
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Broadening Your Communication Career

    Are you passionate about connecting with others and seeking a career that builds relationships? Consider the Communication Studies program at Ashland University. This comprehensive program will prepare you for a broad range of careers in communication.

    Learn More about Applied Communication Studies
    Art Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: B.S.Ed.
    Educating an Artistic Youth

    Do you have a passion for art and a desire to educate and inspire children? Consider Ashland University College of Arts and Sciences’ Art Education program. It’s one of Ohio’s leading teacher preparation programs, preparing you to be a well-rounded practicing artist with excellent teaching skills.

    Learn More about Art Education
    Biology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Banking on Biology

    Interested in the connection between humans and the world around us? Consider majoring in Biology at Ashland to prepare for a career in medicine, research biology, and other emerging biology fields.

    Learn More about Biology
    Chemistry, Biochemistry & Forensic Chemistry
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Collaborating in Chemistry for Modern Advancements

    New medicines, materials, cleaner fuels, innovative criminal lab procedures, and so much more of modern life depends on advancements in the diverse fields of Chemistry. So if you’re looking for an exciting and challenging scientific career, start by exploring the Chemistry and Biochemistry program...

    Learn More about Chemistry, Biochemistry & Forensic Chemistry
    Child & Family Studies Minor
    Undergraduate

    Enhance your major program with a marketable minor that will provide an invaluable understanding of the society all around you. Knowledge about families and working with families has emerged as a critical area of concern for health, social service, and education professionals.

    Learn More about Child & Family Studies Minor
    Computer Science
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS, BA
    Developing a Technology-Driven World

    Today’s technology-focused world needs innovative, technology-focused professionals who specialize in areas such as programming, software development, networks, system administration, and cybersecurity. Ashland University’s cutting-edge Computer Science program provides you with the hands-on training and skills you need to enter an in-demand, high-income career in technology.

    Learn More about Computer Science
    Creative Writing
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Fostering Your Imagination

    Are you an enthusiastic writer thinking about turning your passion into a career? Develop your voice in Ashland University’s Creative Writing program.

    A degree in Creative Writing is an asset to nearly any career you pursue because it helps you develop critical thinking and clear expression.

    Learn More about Creative Writing
    Criminal Justice
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA, AA
    What Can I do With a Major in Criminal Justice? Possible Career Occupations

    (Note: not all criminal justice occupations are listed. Some career options may require additional study. Some of our Graduates go on to graduate school or law school.)

    Federal Occupations: Department of Homeland Security (Border Patrol, Customs) Federal...
    Learn More about Criminal Justice
    Cybersecurity
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: B.S.
    Defending Technology from Cybercriminals

    The Cybersecurity major prepares you to protect individuals, companies and governments from malicious cyber-attacks. You will develop strong problem-solving skills, a robust understanding of computer systems, solid analytical skills, and firm awareness with laws and regulations pertaining to information security.

    Learn More about Cybersecurity
    Digital Media Journalism
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Digital Storytelling Starts Here

    Are you a curious, critical thinker and an avid storyteller seeking ways to be heard? Gather and create news content for all storytelling platforms including print, broadcast, and digital in Ashland University’s immersive Digital Media Journalism program.

    Learn More about Digital Media Journalism
    Digital Media Production
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Mastering the Behind-the-Scenes

    Are you interested in the art of visual storytelling? The Digital Media Production program at Ashland University emphasizes the production process from concept to completion to prepare you for a career in the rapidly developing world of digital media.

    Learn More about Digital Media Production
    English
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Join Us on a Literary Journey

    Are you passionate about literature and language? Join the English Department at Ashland University to start your literary journey across centuries and around the globe.

    Learn More about English
    Environmental Science - Biology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    Environmental Science is one of the most in-demand scientific fields of study with promising career opportunities.

    When you major in Environmental Science at Ashland University you will have personal attention from your professors, a new 2,500 square foot greenhouse, expanded research facilities and many more.

    An Environmental Science major at...

    Learn More about Environmental Science - Biology
    Environmental Science - Chemistry
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    Environmental Science is one of the most in-demand scientific fields of study with promising career opportunities.

    When you major in Environmental Science at Ashland University you will have personal attention from your professors, a new 2,500 square foot greenhouse, expanded research facilities and many more.

    An Environmental Science major at...

    Learn More about Environmental Science - Chemistry
    Environmental Science - Geology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    Environmental Science is one of the most in-demand scientific fields of study with promising career opportunities.

    When you major in Environmental Science at Ashland University you will have personal attention from your professors, a new 2,500 square foot greenhouse, expanded research facilities and many more.

    An Environmental Science major at...

    Learn More about Environmental Science - Geology
    Environmental Science - Toxicology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    Environmental Science is one of the most in-demand scientific fields of study with promising career opportunities.

    When you major in Environmental Science at Ashland University you will have personal attention from your professors, a new 2,500 square foot greenhouse, expanded research facilities and many more.

    An Environmental Science major at...

    Learn More about Environmental Science - Toxicology
    Fine Art
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA, BFA
    Fine-tuning Your Artistic Capabilities

    Experience art on a whole new level in Ashland University’s Fine Art program.

    The Fine Art program at the College of Arts and Sciences is a diverse program devoted to providing you with a fundamental core of art knowledge and strong technical skills. Choose from five...

    Learn More about Fine Art
    Foreign Language Minors
    Undergraduate

    Are you currently enrolled in a program at Ashland University and looking to expand your skill set and marketability? Consider a minor in a foreign language.

    Learn More about Foreign Language Minors
    Forensic Biology Concentration
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Solving Crimes With Science

    Consider adding the Forensic Biology concentration to your major at Ashland University if you’re interested in applying biological principles to law enforcement.

    Learn More about Forensic Biology Concentration
    French
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about French
    French Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: B.S.Ed.

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about French Education
    Geology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Geology
    Geoscience Technology and Management
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS, B.S.Ed

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Geoscience Technology and Management
    Graphic Design
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA, BS
    Fostering a Visual Business World

    Are you looking for a creative career developing visual solutions for clients? Look no further than Ashland University’s Graphic Design Program.

    Learn More about Graphic Design
    Health and Risk Communication
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
    Learn More about Health and Risk Communication
    History
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Understanding Our World by Studying Its Past

    Understanding the greatest minds and key events of the past is key to becoming an educated citizen and successful future professional. The History program at Ashland University helps you examine the past while building your writing, analysis, and communication skills to give you...

    Learn More about History
    Integrated Language Arts (Grades 7-12)
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Passing Your Love of Language On

    Do you have a love of language and literature and want to teach? Bring your passion to life for the next generation of high school students in the Integrated Language Arts program at Ashland University.

    This program prepares you for teacher licensure in Integrated...

    Learn More about Integrated Language Arts (Grades 7-12)
    Integrated Mathematics Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BSED
    Teaching Mathematics to the Next Generation

    Do you have a love for math and an interest in teaching your passion to the next generation? Look no further than Ashland University’s Integrated Mathematics Education program.

    The Integrated Mathematics Education program combines Ashland University’s exceptional math and education programs to prepare you...

    Learn More about Integrated Mathematics Education
    Integrated Social Studies Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BSED

    Are you interested in teaching social studies to young minds? Learn how to confidently and competently bring the social sciences to life for the next generation in the Integrated Social Studies Education program at Ashland University.

    This major combines the strengths of the College of Arts and Sciences with the...

    Learn More about Integrated Social Studies Education
    Interdisciplinary Studies
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS

    The Interdisciplinary Studies Major provides students with an opportunity to complete a degree with a primary foundation in practical thinking and ethics. In addition, the student will develop this foundation through the choice of two concentrations in either the humanities, the sciences, or a business-oriented practicum. It will conclude with...

    Learn More about Interdisciplinary Studies
    International Political Studies
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Entering the International Stage

    Take an active role on the global stage in the International Political Studies program at Ashland University.

    Learn More about International Political Studies
    Mathematics
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS, BA
    Molding a Mathematical Mind

    Are you an excellent problem solver with a mathematical mindset? A recent study found that the average starting salary of mathematics majors is higher than the starting salaries of business, communication, advertising, and accounting majors. The Mathematics program at Ashland University is designed to help you...

    Learn More about Mathematics
    Medical Laboratory Sciences Concentration
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Medical Laboratory Scientists are health-care professionals who collect and analyze body fluids, tissues, and other samples from patients, either in a hospital setting or a clinical laboratory. This program is a concentration within our Biology major that includes six semesters of coursework at Ashland University and a fourth year at...
    Learn More about Medical Laboratory Sciences Concentration
    Minors in Languages and Literatures
    Undergraduate
    Advantages of Minoring in Spanish

    Minoring in Spanish at Ashland University can be very rewarding to your future career. Why? It shows you are flexible, work well with diversity, excel in challenging situations, and have strong communication skills. Knowledge of a foreign language can land you a job and can...

    Learn More about Minors in Languages and Literatures
    Music Education, Multi-Age (PreK-12)
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BM
    Learning to Teach Music

    If you want to be a music teacher, Ashland University’s Music Education program is a great place to start.

    This program combines courses in music with courses from our College of Education, which is nationally recognized as one of the best programs in the state. You’ll...

    Learn More about Music Education, Multi-Age (PreK-12)
    Music Minor
    Undergraduate

    The music minor programs are designed for students majoring in another field that want significant music study as a part of their education. The required courses for the music minor can be distributed over several years, to ease scheduling. Students select either an Applied performance track (the applied Music Minor)...

    Learn More about Music Minor
    Music Studies
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Making A Career in Music

    Do you want to explore the world of music? The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a thorough musical education within the context of a liberal arts education.

    Learn More about Music Studies
    Musical Theatre
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Musical Theatre
    Philosophy
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Pursuing Wisdom

    Are you a deep thinker with an inquisitive mind? Embrace your curiosity in Ashland University’s Philosophy program.

    Learn More about Philosophy
    Physics
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS, BSED

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Physics
    Political Economy
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Shaping Public Policy

    Are you interested in the fusion between economics and politics? The distinctive Political Economy program at Ashland University combines courses from the College of Arts & Sciences and College of Business & Economics to give you a solid understanding of the many ways politics and economics interact...

    Learn More about Political Economy
    Political Science
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    A Powerful Way to Learn

    Are you a natural leader with an interest in politics or government? Consider the Political Science Program at Ashland University.

    Learn More about Political Science
    Psychology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS, BA
    Research Opportunities

    Students majoring in psychology are encouraged to become involved in research in our department, and faculty and students alike regularly publish and present research at regional, national and international conferences. In the past ten years our students have made over 90 conference presentations at local, regional, and national...

    Learn More about Psychology
    Public Relations & Strategic Communication
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Preparing the Faces of the Future

    Are you an effective communicator looking to expand your skills? Do you want to play an integral role in the ever-changing, dynamic field of communication? Look no further than Ashland University’s Public Relations and Strategic Communication program.

    In today’s complex, digitally connected world, companies...

    Learn More about Public Relations & Strategic Communication
    Religion
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Deepen and broaden your understanding of Christianity and World Religions.

    When you study Religion at Ashland University, you will explore the fields of:

    Biblical Studies Christian Theology History of Christianity Practical Theology Christian Ethics World Religions

    As a Religion major, with the direction and guidance of your professors, you will...

    Learn More about Religion
    Science Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Educating a Scientific Youth

    Do you have a passion for teaching and want to introduce young minds to the wonders of science? Ashland University’s teacher-training program is highly regarded as one of the best in Ohio. When you graduate with a degree in any of our science education majors, you’ll...

    Learn More about Science Education
    Social Work
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BSSW
    Preparing You for a Lifetime of Advocacy

    Ashland University’s Social Work program trains you to serve at-risk populations. Nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), this program is one of the largest programs in the Colleges of Arts & Sciences. It prepares you to take the licensing...

    Learn More about Social Work
    Software Design and Development
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: B.S.
    Integrating the Software Lifecycle into Your Lifecycle

    The Software Design and Development program prepares you to be a proficient designer, developer, and troubleshooter of computer software systems. You will develop strong problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills, while taking courses that go in depth into each stage of the software lifecycle.

    Learn More about Software Design and Development
    Spanish
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Spanish
    Spanish Education
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BSED

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Spanish Education
    Sport Communication
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA
    Uniting Sport and People

    Do you have passion for sports and an interest in communication? Consider merging your interests in the Sport Communication program at Ashland University.

    No other sport communication program in the country takes the same full-circle approach to the field as we do, making this program stand...

    Learn More about Sport Communication
    Theatre Studies
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BA

    AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS

    Learn More about Theatre Studies
    Toxicology
    Undergraduate
    Degree Type: BS
    Investigating Chemicals to Reduce Harmful Effects

    Have you ever wondered why prescription drugs have side effects? Or why some plants and animals are poisonous? Or how exposure to air pollutants like sulfur and nitrogen oxides might affect people’s health?

    You’ll learn the answers to these questions—and prepare for an exciting...

    Learn More about Toxicology
    Graduate

    Graduate

    Master of Arts in American History and Government
    Graduate
    Degree Type: MA

    There are many hybrid and online master's degree programs available, but how many can combine the rich interaction of a brick-and-mortar classroom with the convenience of learning from home? Ashland University's Master of Arts programs in American History and Government take online learning to the next level. At Ashland, you'll...

    Learn More about Master of Arts in American History and Government
    Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication
    Graduate
    Degree Type: MA

    Are you a dedicated professional looking to improve your strategic communication skills?

    Ashland University's Master of Arts in Corporate Strategic Communication (MACSC) program is one of the most innovative programs nationwide.

    Learn More about Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communication
    Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
    Graduate
    Degree Type: MFA

    Expand your writing practice and refine your craft within the supportive community of Ashland University’s Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program.

    Learn More about Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
    Online-Adult

    Online-Adult

    Online Criminal Justice
    Online-Adult
    Degree Type: BS, AA

    Looking to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice on your own time? As an online student in Ashland University’s Criminal Justice program, you’ll learn in an interactive online learning environment with ultimate flexibility to meet your schedule.

    Learn More about Online Criminal Justice
  • Arts & Culture
  • Faculty

Activating Your Inner Actuary

If a career in risk management interests you, consider Ashland University’s Actuarial Science program.

Very few universities of Ashland University’s size have an actuarial program. In fact, it's one of only 15 colleges/universities in Ohio with an Actuarial Programs (UCAP) designation and 5 private colleges/universities.

Students can complete all three of the current Validation by Education Experience (VEE) Requirements at Ashland University. "The VEE requirement is jointly sponsored by the Society of Actuaries (SOA), Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) and Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA). There are three VEE topics: Economics, Accounting and Finance, and Mathematical Statistics" 

Contact Us

Department Chair

Dr. Christopher Swanson
Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
209, Patterson Instructional Technology Center
419.289.5264
cswanson@ashland.edu

Administrative Assistant

Brenda Rodeback
Administrative Assistant
221, Kettering Science Center
419.289.5261
brodebac@ashland.edu

Curriculum

Brochures, Course Descriptions, Course Rotations & Four-Year Guides

Each department provides information specific to its majors and programs to help ensure you choose exactly which major is right for you. Use the supplemental material below to assist you in finding a major that most interests you.

Course Rotations

Computer Science Course Rotations

Cybersecurity Course Rotations

Software Design Course Rotations

Math Course Rotations

Anticipated Course Offerings 2021-2025: Computer Science, Cyber Security, Software Design Development and Math

Mathematics Course Descriptions

Cybersecurity Course Descriptions

Software Design Development Course Descriptions

Computer Science Course Descriptions

Undergraduate Catalog
2020-2021
2019-2020
2018-2019
2017-2018
2016-2017
2015-2016
2021-2022 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2020-2021 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2019-2020 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2018-2019 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2017-2018 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide

Contact Us

Contact Us

Department Chair

Dr. Christopher Swanson
Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
209, Patterson Instructional Technology Center
419.289.5264
cswanson@ashland.edu

Administrative Assistant

Brenda Rodeback
Administrative Assistant
221, Kettering Science Center
419.289.5261
brodebac@ashland.edu

Curriculum

Curriculum

Brochures, Course Descriptions, Course Rotations & Four-Year Guides

Each department provides information specific to its majors and programs to help ensure you choose exactly which major is right for you. Use the supplemental material below to assist you in finding a major that most interests you.

Course Rotations

Computer Science Course Rotations

Cybersecurity Course Rotations

Software Design Course Rotations

Math Course Rotations

Anticipated Course Offerings 2021-2025: Computer Science, Cyber Security, Software Design Development and Math

Mathematics Course Descriptions

Cybersecurity Course Descriptions

Software Design Development Course Descriptions

Computer Science Course Descriptions

Undergraduate Catalog
2020-2021
2019-2020
2018-2019
2017-2018
2016-2017
2015-2016
2021-2022 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2020-2021 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2019-2020 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2018-2019 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide
2017-2018 Academic Year
Actuarial Science, B.S. Four-Year Guide

What to Expect in the Actuarial Science Program

Actuarial science is the mathematical backbone of the insurance and pension industries. It takes a combination of strong analytical skills, business knowledge, and an understanding of human behavior to manage the complex risks facing our society.

You’ll learn how to solve a variety of problems related to risk in real world settings, such as:

  • Determining premiums for insurance companies

  • Helping companies establish their retirement plans

  • Developing life insurance products

  • Assisting banks in managing their assets and liabilities and developing ways to manage their financial risk

Learn more about what Actuarial Science entails?

Program Benefits

As part of this innovative program, you’ll:

  • Form close relationships with faculty who have earned awards for excellence in teaching

  • Benefit from small class sizes with individualized attention

  • Have full access to extensive computer resources within the department’s technology center including a variety of hardware running Linux, Solaris, MacOS, and Windows operating systems as well as computer algebra systems, statistical and geometric software, and other applications

  • Be highly attractive to potential employers and command a favorable salary after passing your first two professional actuarial science exams

Ashland University Actuarial Program UCAP Designation

Ashland University's Actuarial Program is one of only 4 private institutions from Ohio, and one of only 13 overall from Ohio, with a Universities and Colleges with Actuarial Programs (UCAP) designation. UCAP website.

Actuarial Science Career Outlook

Average Career Salary

$101,560

Average Career Growth

22 percent increase by 2026, which is higher than the average career growth

Student Organizations

Student Organizations

Virtual Tour
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