* University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: Consistently ranks highly and is known for its strong faculty, research opportunities, and career placement.
* University of Wisconsin-Madison: Another top contender with a long history of actuarial science education and excellent career services.
* University of Iowa: A well-respected program with a strong focus on both theoretical and practical aspects of actuarial science.
* Georgia State University: Known for its strong emphasis on preparing students for the actuarial exams and its location in a major insurance hub.
* University of California, Berkeley: While a very strong program, it may be more focused on theoretical aspects compared to the more practice-oriented programs listed above.
* University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School): Offers a strong actuarial focus within its finance program, often appealing to students interested in the financial aspects of actuarial science.
Factors to consider when choosing a program beyond rankings:
* Faculty expertise: Look at the professors' research interests and publications.
* Exam pass rates: See how well graduates perform on actuarial exams. This information is often available through the university's actuarial science department.
* Career services: A strong career services office can significantly impact job placement opportunities.
* Location: Consider proximity to insurance companies and potential employers.
* Program structure and curriculum: Does the program fit your learning style and career goals? Some programs may be more focused on theory, while others are more practical and exam-focused.
* Class size and student-faculty ratio: Smaller class sizes can lead to more personalized attention.
* Financial aid and scholarship opportunities: Consider the cost of attendance and available financial assistance.
It's recommended to thoroughly research these universities and others that interest you, comparing their programs based on the factors above, before making a decision. Looking at university websites, reaching out to current students and alumni, and reviewing online rankings can all contribute to a well-informed choice.