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Professional Development

Columbia has tailored the program’s curriculum to meet the current and future needs of the insurance industry and prepare students to excel in their career. Our graduates have a remarkable track record of entering and advancing their actuarial careers.

Professional Development Courses

Each semester, all full-time students are required to enroll in Proseminar in Actuarial Science unless they secure an internship, in which case they instead will enroll in Internship in Actuarial Science. These courses are optional for part-time students.

Proseminar

Twice weekly during the spring and fall semesters, the Proseminar brings actuarial industry leaders to Columbia’s campus to address practical career development topics, such as effective professional networking, career advancement path, and job searches. On-campus students will be welcome to attend the sessions in person.

Internship Credit

If you are in an actuarial internship while you are a student, you can receive program credit by enrolling in Internship in Actuarial Science.

Integrated Project

The Integrated Project elective helps you build industry experience in a classroom setting and learn management, organization, communication, and presentation skills. Acting as a consultant, you will work intensively with industry experts on a real-world project. Two of more than 60 practitioners in the actuarial science field will be appointed your mentor. Past mentors have included former presidents of the Society of Actuaries, active CEOs, and chief actuaries of large insurance/reinsurance companies.

Career Events

At the annual Columbia Actuarial Science Program Career Fair, you will have the opportunity to meet, network, and interview with senior actuaries from major insurance organizations and consulting firms. In addition, Columbia coordinates the annual Actuarial Career Fair produced by the Actuarial Society of Greater New York. Other career events include the Columbia Actuarial Science Career Day, held the day after orientation; leadership development and interview workshops; and networking events with actuaries and alumni.

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Résumé Review and Critique

As soon as you’re accepted into the program, we’ll review your résumé and cover letter, recommending changes and updates to align with industry practices. After you’ve made any necessary revisions, we’ll add your résumé to the program’s résumé book, which we use to match students with potential employment opportunities.

F1 Optional Practical Training Opportunities

OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a benefit and extension of F-1 student status that permits you to remain in the U.S. after you complete your academic program with permission to work in your field of study. For full details on eligibility and requirements, please visit the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) website.