"The work of science is to substitute facts for appearances and demonstrations for impressions." - John Ruskin
Ohio State’s Actuarial Science Program has earned the distinguished designation of Center of Actuarial Excellence (CAE) from the Society of Actuaries (SOA), a recognition shared by only about 25 programs nationwide.
As one of just 11 universities in the United States offering actuarial education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels, Ohio State stands among the most comprehensive and respected actuarial programs in the country.
The CAE designation reflects our program’s academic rigor, exceptional faculty, and innovative curriculum, as well as the success of our students and alumni and our strong connections to the actuarial profession and industry partners. It affirms our long-standing commitment to preparing future actuaries who lead with analytical excellence, professional integrity, and real-world impact.
Overview
The Actuarial Science Program at The Ohio State University (OSU) is housed within the Department of Mathematics and includes an undergraduate major, a master’s degree, and a PhD research area. For several decades, OSU has maintained one of the largest actuarial science programs in the country, consistently producing a substantial number of actuaries— up to 100 graduates per year. Many of the approximately 1,000 mathematics majors have also gone on to pursue actuarial careers.
From the inception of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) listing of universities and colleges with actuarial programs until 2025, OSU’s program held the UCAP–Advanced Curriculum designation. In 2025, the program earned the prestigious status of Center of Actuarial Excellence (CAE).
History
Established in 1979 by Professor Bob Brown, OSU was among the first universities in the United States to offer a standalone major in actuarial science. When Professor Brown became chair of the Department of Mathematics in 1994, Professor Bostwick Wyman assumed leadership of the program. Under their guidance, Ohio State’s actuarial science program became the leading program of its kind in Ohio.
By Spring 2005, the program had developed a strong 25-year foundation. That year, Professor Chunsheng Ban, then an associate professor at OSU’s Mansfield campus, began assisting Professor Wyman with teaching and administration. After one year of collaboration, Professor Ban took over as program director.
Professor Ban significantly expanded the undergraduate program, from 75 students in 2006 to 379 in 2016, through targeted recruitment efforts, the development of an active alumni network, and the creation of our annual career fair events. In 2016, he also launched the graduate program, the Master of Actuarial and Quantitative Risk Management (MAQRM). Following his retirement in 2023, Professors John Holmes and Dan Poole assumed co-leadership of the program. The actuarial science program now benefits from seven full-time faculty members who contribute through student mentorship, dissertation advising, and curriculum development.
Strengths and Opportunities
OSU actuarial graduates are in high demand nationwide, with employment opportunities extending throughout the Midwest and across the country. The program’s reputation is reflected in the quality of its students, scholarship support from alumni and corporate partners, participation in our Actuarial Practicum course, and the robust employer presence at its annual career fair.
The program’s Advisory Board includes distinguished alumni who are Fellows of both the SOA and the CAS, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and connected to professional practice.
Support the actuarial science program.
Learn about scholarships opportunities.
Career Success
Looking to connect with successful alumni and learn about their journey? Want to get more involved in the Actuarial Science community at Ohio State? Check out the Ohio State Actuarial Alumni Stories page for inspiring stories, career advice and real-life insights from fellow actuaries! Want to share a story of your own? Email grad-info@math.osu.edu
Also, don’t miss out on the Actuarial Science Club website! It’s packed with information on events, networking opportunities, and resources to help you on your path to success in the field!
Actuarial Science Events Explore more Events
Here at Ohio State, we offer students more than just coursework. Through career panels, exam prep sessions, seminars, and industry networking events, you'll gain early exposure to the field and build connections that matter.
Whether you're exploring the major or already set on the path, our community supports your academic and professional growth from day one. Check out our Events page to learn more about what we offer!
Actuarial Alumni Stories Explore More Stories
Was there any class or skill that stood out?
The FM class was the best class that I took at OSU. It prepared me so well for the exam and it is an essential baseline information for future exams and work.
What do you love most about Ohio State?
The Ohio State alumni network is huge! No matter where you move post-grad, you will likely meet at least one fellow buckeye.
What advice do you have for current and future students?
Keep your mind open. It's impossible to fully understand what a career in each track (e.g., life and P&C) will entail through just some internet research.
Was there any class or skill that stood out?
The FM class was the best class that I took at OSU. It prepared me so well for the exam and it is an essential baseline information for future exams and work.
What do you love most about Ohio State?
The Ohio State alumni network is huge! No matter where you move post-grad, you will likely meet at least one fellow buckeye.
What advice do you have for current and future students?
Keep your mind open. It's impossible to fully understand what a career in each track (e.g., life and P&C) will entail through just some internet research.
