Many actuarial science students choose to add a second major to broaden their academic experience and strengthen their career preparation. Common combinations include actuarial science and statistics, actuarial science and economics, and actuarial science and communication, although students pursue many other pairings based on their interests and professional goals. A second major can help students develop complementary skills and gain expertise in areas that support a career in actuarial science, risk management, finance and related fields.
This guide is intended for students who are considering a second major while pursuing a degree in actuarial science at the University of Illinois. It is important to understand the difference between a double major and a dual degree. A double major consists of two majors within the same college, while a dual degree involves majors from different colleges and requires additional degree requirements. Because actuarial science is housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, any second major within LAS is considered a double major. This guide highlights several popular options for actuarial science students interested in pursuing a double major.
Double Major
The process for those looking for a double major within the college of Liberal Arts and Sciences is fairly simple and straightforward. But there are also some restrictions that apply:
- A course cannot count toward requirements of more than two majors.
- If you want to complete an additional major, you must earn at least 12 hours of distinct, advanced-level coursework in the major discipline.
- Note: These hours do not include supporting coursework or technical electives used for the first major.
- Major combinations with significant course overlap are not allowed, including molecular and cellular biology and integrative biology and mathematics and math + CS. Additionally, you cannot complete more than one concentration in a single major.
- Students completing Individual Plans of Study must receive the approval of their advisors before declaring a double major.
Students in the College of LAS Sciences & Letters Curriculum may declare their intent to complete multiple majors in LAS during application periods. More information can be found on the College of LAS ICT web page.
For more information, please email the ASRM advisor at asrm-adivisng@illinois.edu or Office of Student Academic Affairs at las-studentoffice@illinois.edu.
Dual Degree
For a dual degree, the process becomes a little more complicated, but it is still very much achievable with the right plan of action. The following is the process and the requirements that must be satisfied to successfully apply for and complete a dual degree.