Actuarial Science
Available as a major
With a background in math, economics, finance, calculus, statistics and accounting, Roanoke's interdisciplinary approach teaches you not only how to do actuarial science, but also the underlying how and why. You will be prepared to pass the Society of Actuaries' exams, which is key to unlocking future promotions in the field.
Actuarial science is an emerging field that is high in demand and often leads to well-paying jobs — in many cases, right after graduation.
Curriculum & Courses
Sample Course Offerings:
ASCI 301: Theory of Interest
STAT 220: Statistical Methods II
BUAD 342: Corporate Finance
ECON 348: Introduction to Econometrics
What Makes Roanoke Different
Roanoke College is the only institution in Virginia to offer a major in actuarial science.
Certificate program gives students edge with Fortune 500 companies
Roanoke College offers a unique two-year certificate program that teaches students software skills attractive to top companies around the world. It's called the Data and Econometric Analysis Joint Certificate Program with SAS, which stands for Statistical Analysis Software. The program teaches students to use SAS software, which is employed by major businesses and government institutions, including 93 of the top 100 listed on the 2014 Fortune Global 500, according to SAS. It provides the kind of real-world learning that students need to compete for top jobs. SAS is a key word on resumes and is likely to draw immediate attention from employers. Jay Laramore'10, an analytical training consultant at SAS, helped Roanoke economics professor Allie Kassens implement the certificate program. "I think Roanoke could be a model on how to do it," said Laramore, explaining that SAS instruction typically is offered in graduate-level programs.
Student Experiences
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What came first, an NFL team’s winning record or its big-dollar budget? Is the true crime craze rewiring how society views tragedies? Can boarding a plane be made just a little dang easier, please?
These are just some of the questions explored by student researchers in Roanoke College's ECON Lab, an initiative designed to help students hone their analytical skills and discover the joy that can be found in data and research. Learn more.
Careers & Outcomes
Faculty
Dr. Alice Kassens | Economics
Roanoke professor Dr. Alice Kassens was appointed by Governor Terry McAuliffe to his Joint Advisory Board of Economists (JABE). The function of JABE is to advise the governor and the Department of Taxation on the state of the Commonwealth's economy and the nation as a whole. This information is used to project state tax revenues before setting the state budget. "Being an economist who is passionate for data analysis and the state of our local economy, this position is exciting," Kassens said. "I get to showcase the analysis that I do for Roanoke College pertaining to consumer sentiment, inflation expectations and the real estate market in Virginia."
News
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Roanoke College faculty are accomplishing exciting things! Catch up on some of the latest news.
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Catch up on the latest news from our impressive faculty members.
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The final interior beam of the center’s new building was put in place July 23.
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This interactive workshop, the first of a two-part event, is intended to train researchers to better communicate their work with people outside of their field. Folks from all programs are encouraged to attend!
- Date:
- March 27, 2026
- Time:
- 4 - 6 p.m.
- Location:
Antrim Chapel
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Engaged in research? Consider competing in this year's Nutshell Games Competition for a chance to win an Amazon e-gift card.
- Date:
- April 21, 2026
- Time:
- 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Location:
Antrim Chapel
