Department of Actuarial Studies and Business Analytics
  1. Macquarie University
  2. Macquarie Business School
  3. Our departments
  4. Department of Actuarial Studies and Business Analytics

We assess risk and drive data-informed decision-making

We are the first university in the world to be accredited with a professional actuarial body.

We have over 50 years of experience in actuarial studies, and are a world-leading innovator in the emerging fields of:

  • artificial intelligence
  • business analytics
  • cyber security governance
  • information systems.

Our expertise

You will be learning from our world-class programs in actuarial studies and business analytics. Our graduates are equipped and ready to play a leading role in shaping the global financial future.

Our areas of expertise include:

  • actuarial science
  • business analytics and AI
  • energy markets
  • information systems
  • statistics and analysis of big data
  • quantitative modelling.

Our programs

Our teaching programs combine practical learning with innovative thinking to empower you with knowledge and understanding, alongside problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

You’ll learn to create innovative solutions to problems based on real case studies as well as developing your communication, technology and time management skills. Studying actuarial studies will:

  • deepen your understanding of mathematical and statistical principles
  • allow you to apply your skills practically
  • give you networking opportunities with industry professionals
  • expand your career prospects.

See our actuarial studies courses.

Our degree in business analytics is the first of its kind in Australia, and one of only a handful around the world.

Business analytics is an applied integration of studies in:

  • computer science
  • statistics
  • economics
  • management
  • accounting
  • marketing.

In this course, you’ll use data science and predictive analytics skills to discover relationships, make classifications and uncover hidden trends.

See our business analytics courses.

Studying cybersecurity governance teaches you how to protect information systems and data from cyber threats. You'll learn to:

  • develop strategies
  • manage risks
  • communicate effectively about cybersecurity.

See the Cyber Security Governance major.

Studying business information systems (BIS) teaches you how to use technology to help businesses operate more efficiently. You'll learn how to:

  • analyse data
  • improve communication
  • make better business decisions.

Our major in BIS prepares you for a wide range of careers where you can use technology to drive business success.

See the Business Information Systems major.
Not only are the lecturers expert in their fields, they put a great deal of thought into how the material is delivered. In my current role, I know I can look to Macquarie for quality actuarial graduates who have skills that are second to none.

Professional accreditation

The Actuaries Institute accredits actuaries through a three-part education examination program.

  • If you complete the Bachelor of Actuarial Studies or the Master of Actuarial Practice with grades of credit or above in the relevant units, you’re eligible to apply for exemption from the corresponding subjects in the Foundation Program.
  • If you complete the Bachelor of Actuarial Studies as part of one of our double degrees (with either the Bachelor of Applied Finance, the Bachelor of Science or the Bachelor of Information Technology) or the Master of Actuarial Practice with grades of credit or above in the relevant units, you’re eligible to apply for exemption from the corresponding subjects in the Foundation Program and the Actuary Program.
  • Students enrolled in the non-award study program are not required to enrol in a Macquarie University degree.

Current students can view the Course Compass on iLearn for details on how to claim exemptions from professional examinations.

Contact the department at mqbs-asba.admin@mq.edu.au if you're not a current student.

The Master of Business Analytics is fully accredited at the Professional Level by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). Students are required to complete the core units and ACCG8086 and COMP6210 from the flexible zone to be recognised.

ACS is the official accrediting body for the IT sector in Australia. ACS-accredited tertiary courses and study programs provide assured quality education for students with ambitions of a tech career.

Graduates of this course would satisfy a part of the qualification requirement for skills assessment for visa purpose.

The department has also been recognised as a Center of Actuarial Excellence by the US-based Society of Actuaries.

The longest-serving global accrediting body, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), accredits Macquarie Business School.