Northwestern actuarial science program ranked among best values

Abby Korthals, a 2013 Northwestern College alumna who is senior pricing analyst at Nationwide Insurance in Des Moines, is among many Northwestern graduates who are leading successful careers in the actuarial industry.

Northwestern College’s actuarial science program is ranked among the nation’s best values by www.online-accounting-degrees.net. The ranking lists Northwestern 18th out of the top 40 best value colleges and universities.

Northwestern is the highest rated member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) in the ranking. The only other CCCU school listed is Olivet Nazarene University, ranked 38th.

The ranking compares all undergraduate actuarial science programs in the United States based on key metrics such as graduation rate; quality of curriculum; student appeal, measured by the quantity of students majoring in actuarial science relative to all other business and finance degrees; and net price, which is the average cost of attendance after factoring both expenses and financial aid.

The ranking, at http://www.online-accounting-degrees.net/best/top-values-bachelor-actuarial-science-degree-programs-2016/, describes Northwestern’s program as “comprehensive,” saying that “students who are searching for a faith-based actuarial education should take a good look at Northwestern College.”

“Our students graduate with not just the professional education of a quality actuarial program, but also the communication skills and breadth of knowledge that come with a liberal arts education,” says Dr. Tim Huffman, professor of mathematics and director of Northwestern’s actuarial science program. “As a result, they’re able to discuss complex issues with others outside the actuarial department and are well prepared for moving into leadership roles.”

Northwestern is just one of six CCCU schools recognized by the Society of Actuaries on their exclusive Universities and Colleges with Actuarial Programs (UCAP) list. Northwestern actuary students have a 90 percent first-time pass rate on the P (probability) and FM (financial mathematics) actuarial exams, compared to the national average of around 50 percent. Graduates are employed at Nationwide Insurance and Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, among other places.