MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) - Middle Tennessee State University's Actuarial Science Program is strengthening its global reputation while expanding career opportunities for local students. Housed within the Department of Mathematical Sciences, the program blends mathematics, statistics, economics, finance, data science, and business to train students in assessing and managing financial risk across insurance, banking, healthcare, and pensions.
The internationally recognized Society of Actuaries designated MTSU as a Center of Actuarial Excellence, the highest level of recognition for higher education institutions. MTSU is one of only 45 universities globally and 24 in the United States to earn this distinction. Additionally, the program secured Gold Tier status from the Casualty Actuarial Society's University Recognition, putting MTSU among a select group worldwide to achieve both honors.
Program Director and Associate Professor Vajira Manathunga noted that the discipline focuses on quantifying, measuring, and managing risk using mathematical tools alongside business and communication skills. To raise early awareness, the program hosted its first Actuarial Science High School Day on Saturday (April 18th) for students and parents. The event highlighted career options and professional exam paths, emphasizing that entry-level actuaries in Tennessee can earn average starting salaries between $80,000 and $110,000.
Five core faculty members with expertise across actuarial science, statistics, data science, and risk management support the academic framework. The program also maintains an industry advisory board and brings prominent leaders to campus, such as Ian Duncan, president-elect of the Society of Actuaries, who recently presented on artificial intelligence in health insurance.
Students participate in research, case competitions, professional conferences, and the Actuarial Math Student Association. Franklin native Keira Cupp, a senior actuarial science major set to graduate in May 2027, serves as president of the Actuarial Math Student Association and vice president of finance for Gamma Iota Sigma. Cupp spent her summer as a financial and actuarial consultant intern for global insurance broker Gallagher. She has already passed two professional examinations, aided by MTSU’s program policy that provides fee reimbursements for passed exams.
