Actuaries solve problems in the business world by analyzing and managing risk. To become an actuary, you have to pass a series of exams administered by the Society of Actuaries and/or the Casualty Actuarial Society. While actuaries must be well versed in mathematics, they are also knowledgeable about computer science, economics, pertinent social issues, and the law.

Actuaries evaluate financial risks using their business and analytical skills. Actuaries primarily work for insurance companies, consulting firms, and government organizations. However they also work for universities, banks and investment firms, large corporations, accounting firms, hospital and physician organizations, rating bureaus, labor unions, and other organizations.

Most companies provide assistance with actuarial exams by offering paid study time and paying for classes, books, and exam fees. Exam takers usually need to study two to three times as much on their own. The exams are among the most grueling of any profession, but they carry significant rewards. Most companies award raises upon completion of an exam.

While not obviously visible, an actuarial career is consistently voted as one of the top professions in America by Jobs Rated Almanac based on job environment, income, outlook, physical demands, security, and stress. You can learn more about an actuarial career at www.BeAnActuary.com.

The following actuarial organizations provide more information about actuarial careers:

• The Society of Actuaries (SOA) is the professional organization of life, health and pension actuaries in the U.S. and has approximately 17,000 members.
• The American Academy of Actuaries (AAA) is the organization that represents the entire actuarial profession in the U.S. It sets professional standards of actuarial qualification, practice and conduct, and assists in the formulation of public policy by providing independent and objective information, analysis and education.
• The Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) is the professional organization of casualty actuaries in the U.S. and has approximately 4,000 members.