Actuarial Studies (Honours) - 4520
Program Summary
Faculty: UNSW Business School
Contact: UNSW Business School Student Centre
Campus: Sydney
Career: Undergraduate
Typical UOC Per Semester: 24
Min UOC Per Semester: 6
Max UOC Per Semester: 24
Min UOC For Award: 48
Domestic Entry Requirements: See Domestic Entry Requirements
International Entry Requirements: See International Entry Requirements
Award(s):
Bachelor of Actuarial Studies (Honours)
View program information for previous years
Program Description
- Advanced analytical and problem solving skills required for specialist careers in business and government.
- Highly sought after research, project management and communication skills in as well as advanced knowledge of the relevant discipline.
Program Objectives and Graduate Attributes
- Apply a highly developed understanding of the theoretical concepts and body of knowledge in one or more disciplines to address a research topic.
- Reflect critically on existing knowledge, ideas and practice with the relevant field to address a research topic.
- Plan and execute a piece of research with some independence.
- Communicate research ideas effectively in oral presentations and in writing.
Program Structure
- 24 UOC (4 courses) of advanced coursework in the relevant discipline.
- 24 UOC thesis.
Compulsory course:
- Any relevant course at Honours or Masters level in, e.g., RISK, ECON, FINS or MATH.
The thesis, ACTL4000 is an independent piece of research which can either be empirical, theoretical or computational and will be worth 24 UOC. The thesis is completed under the supervision of academic(s) within the School of Risk and Actuarial Studies. In addition to the written thesis, students will be required to give oral presentations throughout the honours year in which they will outline and defend their thesis proposal or their finished research to a group of their peers and school academics.
The thesis will be marked by two independent examiners who are appointed by the Honours Co-ordinator in consultation with the HoS / School Honours Committee. The final thesis mark will normally be the average of the examiners’ recommendations.
Honours Mark and Classes of Honours
The Honours mark for the awarding of the class of Honours is based on all components of the program, with weighting of 50% coursework and 50% thesis in line with their UOC.
Honours will be awarded in the following classes:
- Class 1: WAM of 85 and over
- Class 2(1): WAM of 75 to less than 85
- Class 2(2): WAM of 65 to less than 75
- Class 3: WAM of 50 to less than 65
An honours student may be nominated for a University Medal in line with the University Medal Policy and University Medal Procedure.
Academic Rules
1. A minimum of 48 units of credit (UOC).
2. A minimum of 24 UOC of coursework
3. A 24 UOC of thesis.
- They have a weighted average mark (WAM) for Session 1 of less than 70; and/or
- They have a mark for ACTL4003 Research Methods in Actuarial Studies of less than 70; and/or
- They have a fail mark in any of their Session 1 courses; and/or
- Their supervisor requests such a review.
Fees
Entry Requirements
In addition to the above requirements set by the UNSW Business School for enrolment in the program, the School of Risk and Actuarial Studies expects applicants to:
- Be eligible for exemption from all Part I courses from the Actuaries Institute;
- Have a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 80 in all core actuarial courses (the core courses are the ones that are considered for the purpose of exemption from the Part I examinations of the Actuaries Institute) in the degree in which they are currently enrolled;
- Have a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 80 in the degree in which they are currently enrolled.
The availability and willingness of a supervisor to work with the candidate is another important criterion for successful admission to the program. The number of students accepted to the Bachelor of Actuarial Studies (Honours) program is dependent on the availability of supervisors in the school. If there are more applicants than the school can accommodate, admission will be determined according to students' academic merit. Hence meeting the academic requirements of the program does not guarantee a place in the program. Mid-year entry is not permitted.
How to Apply
Documentation required:
For UNSW Applicants:
A 4-6 page pre-proposal outlining:
1.title and topic of proposed research project
2.a motivation for this research project
3.a short review of the relevant literature
4.an outline of the proposed research questions and expected contributions
5.a discussion of the importance and significance of those expected outcomes
6.a signed EOI form signed by your proposed supervisor(s)
7.an up-to-date curriculum vitae
For non-UNSW Applicants:
In addition to the above you are required to contact the Honours
Co-Ordinator in advance (at least one month) of the application deadline with documents 1 and 2, so a supervisor may be identified.
1. A full transcript of all completed courses to date (including current semester enrolment)
2. Proof of Part I completion or exemption eligibility
3. Names and contact (phone number and email) of two academic referees, supporting your application
4. Additional documentation as advised by the Honours Co-Ordinator
For more information contact the Actuarial Studies Honours Co-Ordinator
Area(s) of Specialisation