Programme details

Master of Actuarial Science – MActSc

This course prepares actuaries to predict, analyze financial risks, and solve business problems across diverse industries.

Course description

The Master of Actuarial Science is the sole Master’s-level program specializing in actuarial science available in New Zealand. This qualification equips you with skills highly sought-after both locally and internationally.

Throughout your studies, you will engage with public and private sector organizations that employ actuaries, facilitating the establishment of a robust professional network essential for your career advancement.

Accredited actuaries are affiliated with professional bodies, demonstrating their expertise and ensuring they meet industry standards for proficiency and ethical conduct. This profession is esteemed for its rigorous skills and commitment to professionalism.

Completion of the Master of Actuarial Science offers a streamlined path to accreditation with the Actuaries Institute of Australia, which holds recognition in both New Zealand and Australia. Graduates are granted exemptions from all but two required exams for accreditation, expediting their journey to becoming certified actuaries.

Immigration benefits

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

Career Prospects

Actuarial Analyst or other positions leading to becoming an Actuary. Could be in Insurance, Finance, Consulting, Government etc.

Actuarial Science graduates can also work as Data Analysts or Data Scientists, Management Consultants, Business advisers, Financial Analysts or traders in Management Consulting firms, banks or financial organizations.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements for international students include:

– A bachelor’s degree in actuarial science, Finance, Statistics, or a related field, with a minimum B+ grade average. The requirement may be waived by the associate dean (students) of the Wellington School of Business and Government for candidates with extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience.

– Approval by the programme director based on assessment of capability to pursue the proposed course of study.

English Language requirement

To gain admission to this program, you must meet one of the following language proficiency requirements:

– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual sub-score below 6.0.
– TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test, with a minimum of 20 in the writing section.
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of at least 50.
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5.
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, and no individual skill score below 169.
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic).
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2.