MATHS 453: Mathematics of Life Contingencies 2 (4)

Syllabus

 

1.               Prerequisite.  MATHS 452

 

2.               Course Description.   Mathematics of multiple life functions, multiple decrement models, valuation theory for pension plans, insurance models including expenses, nonforfeiture benefits, and dividends.

 

3.               Course Objectives.  Students will be able to extend the topics from Life Contingencies 1 to models involving more than one life or more than one decrement.  They will learn how to apply multiple decrement models to pension plans and various other benefits.  They will also learn how to incorporate expenses into the calculation of premiums and reserves.

 

4.               Course Rationale.  The topics discussed in this course are important to the application of actuarial science to life insurance.  Therefore, the course is recommended for the actuarial science major.

 

Some of the material covered in this course is directly tested on the third of the professional examinations given by the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuary Society.  The remaining material is important background material for later actuarial exams.

 

5.         Course Content.  Topics will include joint distributions of future lifetimes, the joint-life and last-survivor statuses, multiple life insurance and annuities, multiple decrement tables, valuation theory for pension plans, and insurance models that provide for expenses.  Topics may also include nonforfeiture benefits and dividends, modified reserve methods, asset shares, special insurance and annuity benefits, advanced multiple life theory, and other actuarial topics of current interest.

 

6.               Course Format.  This course will be taught using lectures and discussion.  Projects will be assigned, individual and/or group.  Knowledge of spreadsheet computer software will be helpful.  Many examples will be presented, including problems from past actuarial exams.

 

7.               Methods of Evaluating Student Performance.  Student evaluation will be based on in-class exams and individual or group projects.  Assessment may also involve take-home exams, other types of homework, quizzes, and presentations.  The evaluation and weight of these components are at the discretion of the individual instructor.

 

8.             Evaluation of the Course.  The instructor of the course is evaluated by departmental student evaluations and peer evaluation.  The course is reviewed and revised periodically by the Departmental Undergraduate Programs Committee.

B. Frye, J. Foley, 3/2001