What Is An Actuary? Definition Explained

By UniAcco
Dec 20, 2022 •
What is an actuary

Actuaries use datasets from the present & past to solve real-world challenges. A large part of an actuary’s job is risk management, which involves determining how likely an event is and the expenses connected with it. Actuaries forecast and assess new hazards, then work to mitigate them by putting financial safeguards in place. Because every aspect of business, particularly the finance industry, is vulnerable to risk, an actuarial career offers a wide range of job opportunities, including banking, insurance, pensions, investing, and much more! To understand what is an actuary in detail, read the details below!

They have a thorough understanding of corporate operations. Actuaries are well-versed in legislation changes, and long-term demographic patterns, and have a keen understanding of commercial and economic issues.

What is An Actuary?

Actuaries are risk assessors who are extremely numerate. “Actuaries are experts in risk management,” its professional body, the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, explains “They employ their mathematical skills to assess the likelihood and risk of future events, as well as to forecast their financial impact on a company and its customers.”

As the job of actuaries evolves, it is necessary to keep up with the most recent advances. Machine learning, data management systems, natural language processing, and mathematical and statistical modelling are examples.

Now that we have understood what is an actuary, let’s further understand what can you expect from this career option. 

What Is An Actuary & More About The Career!

The work of an actuary is divided into three categories.

They look at documented data as well as present behaviour. They use this information to forecast trends, model the future and calculate the likelihood of various events. When knowledge is lacking, they look for alternate sources and solve problems creatively to have a better understanding of the situation. It’s also beneficial to have a keen eye for detail in this situation.

Then, based on those predictions, they assess the financial risks. This necessitates an understanding of financial fundamentals as well as how the business operates. As a result, they’re employing both strategic thinking and smart judgement. They’ll most likely be working closely with coworkers to do this, thus teamwork skills are necessary.

Finally, they present their findings to the group. Even though the concepts they deal with are complex, they must explain them in a way that non-specialists can grasp and act on. This could be in the form of written reports or in-person presentations. At this time, excellent interpersonal communication skills come into play.

What Is Actuarial Science?

Actuarial Science is concerned with assessing risks and ensuring the financial stability of insurance or financial institutions. Graduates of Actuarial Studies understand how to predict future events and take preventative steps using mathematical, statistical, and probability principles.

Actuarial Studies’ major purpose is to improve the knowledge needed to undertake actuarial work and to prepare students to pass their actuarial tests more quickly (keep on reading to learn more about them).

Where Do Actuaries Work?

Actuarial science careers can be found in every industry, all around the world. Most actuaries work in banking and finance, as well as life, health, and general insurance, as well as pensions and investments. There are many chances in fields other than finance. Risk must be understood and managed by government agencies and the healthcare industry, among others.

Graduates in actuarial sciences are in high demand due to their extensive knowledge of arithmetic, statistics, finance, and accounting. They work in corporate analytics, insurance underwriting, financial planning, and risk management, among other fields.

What Is An Actuary & Becoming An Actuary?

Becoming an actuary, like becoming a lawyer, attorney, or doctor, involves hard work, dedication, and years of study. To become a professional actuary, you must pass the IFoA’s recognised professional tests. Before taking subsequent exams, you’ll need to develop work-based skills, most commonly in an actuarial consultant, insurance company, or financial services industry, and complete practical tasks.

Everyone who enjoys and excels in arithmetic is welcome, and apprenticeships are available. The majority of people who work in this field have earned a highly numerate degree. Some programmes, such as the Bayes Business School’s Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, allow you to skip some of the tests.

The qualifications are difficult and academically demanding, not least because you’ll be studying and working part-time. Actuaries, on the other hand, can expect to be generously compensated for their efforts. Graduate trainee pay is among the highest, at roughly £31,000 per year, according to the IFoA, while senior actuaries often make more than £100,000 per year.

If you liked reading this blog on “What Is An Actuary? More About Actuarial Science!” then make sure you check out our other informative blogs linked below!

Related Posts

Cost Of Living In The UK In 2024

Cost Of Living In The UK In 2024

Understanding the finances of any country is a crucial part of daily life, shaping decisions from where to live to how to manage your expenses. In...