Entry year
Start date
September 2024
Duration
3 years
Duration with placement
4 years
Application deadline
Jan 2024
Campus
Northampton Square
UCAS Code
G3G1 / GG31 with professional placement

Overview

Who is it for?

If you love mathematics, especially modelling and probability, and you are interested in the use of coding, data and IT to solve real-world problems, then you will find this course ideal for you.

As you would expect, the Data Analytics and Actuarial Science undergraduate course sets you up for a career in actuarial science. However, the course will also prepare you for a career in the wider fields of data analysis and risk management, or in investment management or financial analysis.

Bayes Business School is ranked 3rd best in London, 6th in the UK, 23rd in Europe (Financial Times European Business School ranking 2021)

Objectives

Traditionally, actuaries have used data to solve problems in the financial risk area. However, the world of finance is being transformed by two major trends – the increase in the volume and types of data and the focus on risk management. This means some problems are now best solved using different data analysis techniques.

This course prepares you for these new challenges. You will explore the traditional actuarial approach to risk management but you’ll also learn about some of the newest areas of data science, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, and their practical application to finance and insurance.

As well as developing your understanding of mathematics, probability, statistics, economics and IT you’ll look into probability modelling, data analysis and the financial markets. You’ll also be able to demonstrate your skills and your ability to communicate your findings in your final year project.

You also have a number of electives to choose from like our Mentoring & Coaching for Leadership module.

*Global Research Rankings of Actuarial Science and Risk Management & Insurance 2021

Course Directors

photo of David Smith

Dr David Smith

Senior Lecturer in Actuarial Science

Course director profile

Dr Jaap Spreeuw

Senior Lecturer in Actuarial Science

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Structure

What will I learn?

  • Develop your knowledge and understanding of data analytics, actuarial science, statistics, mathematics, finance and related disciplines.
  • Develop your ability to communicate your knowledge and understanding effectively.
  • Develop your understanding of the roles of mathematical and statistical calculation, analysis and judgement in financial risk management and actuarial science.
  • Develop your ability to make reasoned judgements, frame appropriate questions and draw independent conclusions.
  • Equip you with the skills required to work professionally in fields related to statistics, finance, risk management, actuarial science, and general management.
  • Prepare you to enter postgraduate study in actuarial science or related disciplines.

Assessment methods

You will be assessed using a variety of methods, depending on module choices including:

  • Coursework
  • Unseen written examinations, taking place at the end of each term (or at the end of a year, if a module is taught over two terms)
  • Class tests
  • Online quizzes and tests, using the Virtual Learning Environment
  • Presentation
  • Group projects, individual projects.

Percentage of the course assessed by coursework

The balance of assessment by examination, practical examination and assessment by coursework will to some extent depend on the optional modules you choose.

The approximate percentage of the course assessment, based on 2023/24 entry is as follows:

Year 1

65% written, 35% coursework

Year 2

58% written, 42% coursework

Year 3

43% written, 57% coursework.

Overall workload

Most contact hours take the form of lectures. A number of tutorials, exercise classes and surgery hours are scheduled during the first year, the number decreasing as you progress and you become more able to direct your own learning.

Approximate study time based on 2019/20 entry is as follows

Year 1

29% scheduled learning, 71% independent learning

Year 2

22% scheduled learning, 78% independent learning

Year 3

19% scheduled learning, 81% independent learning.

Term dates

Academic year

For a full breakdown of the current and forthcoming academic year view our term dates page.

Application

How to apply

All applications should be made through UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Applications are made via Apply, UCAS's online application system.

UCAS Institution code: C60 (Bayes Business School and City, University of London)
UCAS Course code: G3G1

You can find more information at UCAS and in the UCAS Handbook.

Apply now

Find out more information about applying to Bayes.

Terms and conditions

Students applying to study at Bayes Business School are subject to City, University of London's terms and conditions.

Entry requirements

Below is a list of countries with information on each about which qualifications we accept.

English language requirements

Information for international and EU applicants

For international applicants requiring a Student Route visa we accept any of the below English language proficiency qualifications at the grades listed.

Please note, the Official Certificate must be awarded OR the qualification must be verifiable online. Statement of Results will not be accepted.

The English Language qualification or test needs to have been taken no longer than two years from the date that the CAS is generated.

English Language Tests:

  • IELTS (Academic, UKVI or IELTS Indicator): 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any sub test.
  • Language Cert International ESOL: Language Cert B2 Communicator High Pass
  • TOEFL (Test centre or iBT Special Home Edition): 92 overall (24 Writing, 23 Reading, 22 Speaking, 21 Listening)
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 59 overall with minimum of 59 in each sub test
  • Cambridge English Advanced (also known as Certificate in Advanced English): Grade C (180 overall) at CEFR Level C1 with minimum 170 in each sub test
  • Cambridge English Proficiency (also known as Certificate of Proficiency in English): Pass qualification (all grades accepted)
  • Oxford Test of English 130 overall with minimum 120 in each sub test

English Language Qualifications:

  • IGCSE: English as a First Language (Syllabus 0500 & 0522) or English as Second Language (Syllabus 0510 & 0511) at Grade B or above
  • International Baccalaureate: Grade 5 at Standard level or Grade 4 at Higher level
  • Trinity College (Integrated Skills): ISE III – pass in each area
  • INTO City Pre-sessional English: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any sub test (NB. Must be the 6 or 8 week Bayes-specific course)
  • Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE): English Language Examination grade 4 or above
  • GCSE English Language Grade C/5 or above but 1) Qualifications must be issued by Ofqual, SQA, Qualifications Wales or CCEA regulated body in the UK; 2) Education must be undertaken in a UK school.
  • A Level English Language Grade C or above but 1) Qualifications must be issued by Ofqual, SQA, Qualifications Wales or CCEA regulated body in the UK; 2) Education must be undertaken in a UK school.
  • Vitnemal English grade 5
  • French Baccalaureat: 14/20 in English
  • Malaysian GCE O Level (SPM-1119 syllabus only): grade A

An exception to the above criteria applies to Student Route visa applicants from the below majority English-speaking countries for whom we can accept a wider range of English qualifications:

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • The Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Canada
  • Dominica
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Ireland
  • Jamaica
  • Malta
  • New Zealand
  • St Kitts and Nevis
  • St Lucia
  • St Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

Don’t meet the English language requirements? INTO City, University of London offers English language programmes to help prepare you for study at university. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for entry to degree courses.

Information for home applicants

In addition to the above English language proficiency qualifications accepted for International applicants, as a Home or EU applicant we can also accept any of the below English qualifications:

  • GCSE: Grade C or 4
  • O-Level: Grade C
  • A-Level: Grade C
  • Cambridge English First (also known as Certificate of First in English): Grade A (180-190) at CEFR Level C1

Study abroad

Bayes Business School gives you the opportunity to spend a year studying at one of our partner institutions, which are located around the world including Canada, Australia and Europe.

*Please note that the partner universities available is dependent on the study abroad programme you apply for and on your degree. The list of partner universities is also subject to change.

Sandwich year

You can spend a year of your degree course studying at one of our partner institutions, between your second and final year of study. This would add a year to your degree so you would complete your degree in four years.

All the above listed partner universities are available to this degree, however if you wish to take Actuarial Science modules abroad you will need to apply to University of Waterloo, Canada.

Student Exchange Team

Our dedicated Student Exchange Team are available to offer advice to students who wish to explore their study abroad options. They will also support students throughout the application process and during their study abroad year or term. To contact them, email: [email protected].

Placements

Work Placements at Bayes

The practical experience of a professional placement, (typically 9-12 months duration) in addition to strong academic achievement, gives graduates a distinctive edge in the job market. Find out more about Work Placements and Summer Internships at Bayes.

The opportunity to gain professional work experience is a key part of a Bayes degree. As a BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science student you are eligible to undertake a one-year paid work placement during the third year of a four-year sandwich degree programme.

The experience of working for a leading institution gives you practical experience that can be invaluable in terms of your future career. It will enable you to increase your confidence and maturity, expand your network of contacts, and acquire the skills and competencies sought by graduate employers. Together that gives you a competitive edge in the graduate market.

The BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science and BSc Finance with Actuarial Science pathways are new for 2019/2020. As a guide, past placements students from the BSc Actuarial Science have mainly found actuarial placements, and some finance placements, in organisations including banks, insurers, re-insurers and risk management specialists.

We’re proud of the close relationships we’ve built with a diverse range of companies who recognise our reputation, achievements and the success of our graduates, and know that Bayes students can add significant value to their workforce. Our dedicated Placement team are in regular contact with these companies and many more. We can’t guarantee work placements, but they will support you to find a placement and ensure you are work ready.

This additional year is a recognised part of the degree programme and will be endorsed on your final degree certificate, although it is not credited and will not count towards your degree classification.

Support from the Placements Team

A dedicated placements team will support you through the placements process. The team advertise a number of work placement and summer internships annually, and invite businesses to Bayes to meet with you and discuss the roles available. The team offers 1-2-1 advice on CV's and covering letters, as well as organising workshops to help you enhance your skills and competencies with applications and interviews. Also the team support students throughout your placement year including offering advice, guidance and monitoring your progress.

Micro-Placements

The Micro-Placements Programme provides you with an opportunity to take on exciting projects and gain real life experience without adding an extra year to your studies. You can enhance your core employability skills and explore different career options.

Micro-Placements don’t need a lengthy commitment. They are between 2 and 5 weeks long and can be full-time or part-time according to your schedule. They take place in the summer break between June and August, an ideal time to gain work experience as it will not interfere with your studies.

Fees

UK £9,250* per year Tuition fees are subject to annual change
EU £24,500 Tuition fees are subject to annual change
International £24,500 Tuition fees are subject to annual change

UK students

*Fees for students commencing study in 2024/25 are £9,250 for each year of study.

EU and Non-EU international students

** Fees for students commencing study in 2024/25 are £24,500 for each year of study.

The tuition fees indicated are for the 2024/25 academic year only. Fees for each subsequent year of study are subject to an annual increase to take account of City's increased costs of delivering educational services. This increase will be 5% for each subsequent year of study. You should expect your fee to increase by this amount and budget accordingly.

Funding

Career pathways

This degree prepares you for a career in data analytics, risk management, actuarial science or financial analysis.

You’ll also have data science analysis and communication skills invaluable for a career in general management. Find out the types of positions our graduates have gone on to work in here.

Alumni stories

Hear from our alumni. Discover the real experiences of learning at Bayes and how Bayes helped to boost our graduates' careers.

Read all stories

Accreditation

In order to qualify as an actuary, you will be required to pass the professional examinations of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. Specific modules in all three years of the BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science degree give you the opportunity to earn exemptions from five of the seven core principles stage subjects.