Doctor of Philosophy - Actuarial Studies

Most applicants are invited to first complete the Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS), a one-year pathway program that provides advanced coursework and a research project. The MPDBS is fully funded, including a tuition waiver and stipend of approximately A$38K. Upon successful completion, the vast majority of students historically progress to the PhD with a scholarship covering tuition and a stipend of approximately A$48K. A small number of applicants may be invited to apply for Direct Entry into the PhD without completing the MPDBS.

Year One consists of the Master of Pre-Doctoral Business Studies (MPDBS), covering foundational research methods, communication skills, and research assistance on faculty projects. Year Two involves specialised coursework in Risk & Actuarial Studies, identification of a thesis topic, literature review, and presenting a research proposal. Years Three and Four are focused on conducting full-time original research and completing the doctoral thesis.

The program includes rigorous coursework covering risk theory, multivariate models for risks, longevity risk management, data analytics, economic and regulatory capital, and investment and asset liability modelling. In the second year, students choose up to eight additional research elective courses in consultation with their supervisor, with an opportunity to take at least one subject outside their specialised discipline.

The linked MPDBS year is a fully funded program that includes a tuition waiver and a stipend of approximately A$38K for all accepted applicants. Upon successful completion of the MPDBS and progression to the PhD, the vast majority of students historically receive a scholarship covering tuition and a stipend of approximately A$48K.

UNSW's School of Risk and Actuarial Studies is ranked 1st in the UNL Global Research Rankings of Actuarial Science and Risk Management & Insurance, placing PhD students at the forefront of research in actuarial studies, risk analytics, superannuation, and population ageing.