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OBU—Oklahoma Baptist University

Applied Mathematics, Actuarial and Financial Math Emphasis

OBU offers students a degree in applied mathematics with an emphasis in actuarial and financial math. This specialized field of study teaches you how to strategically apply mathematical concepts that assess financial risks in the insurance and finance fields. You will develop the analytical, statistical and computational skills needed to determine and quantify possible risks based on past behavior.

A degree in this field allows you to apply mathematics to real-world problems as you learn to analyze relevant data needed for businesses to implement new methods and strategies in their areas of growth. By the end of this program, you will have the skills needed to pass the first two Society of Actuaries exams: Probability (P) Exam and Financial Math (FM) Exam.

Benefits of an OBU Applied Mathematics Degree

Robust Curriculum

Coursework in applied mathematics with an emphasis in actuarial and financial math includes instruction in such courses as calculus, statistics, algebra, project management, accounting, database program development, portfolio management, business finance, investments, probability, and financial math. As a complement to this specialized area of study, OBU’s rigorous liberal arts education will be integrated into your learning. Our university’s core curriculum promotes critical thinking, intellectual growth, and a broadened view of our past and present world to offer you a well-rounded and comprehensive college education.

Exceptional Faculty

The OBU math faculty is comprised of four full-time professors, each holding doctorate degrees in mathematics. Our faculty is focused on outstanding instruction and student success. At least 95% of all courses are taught by these full-time faculty members, not adjunct professors. Our small class size, with 25 or fewer students in most freshman and sophomore level courses, and an average of 10 students in the upper-level math courses, ensures you are receiving quality, intentional, and individual instruction.

Specialized Field of Knowledge

Actuarial science is a combination of using analysis, calculation, and evaluation to estimate risk and calculate behavior to increase predictability. This is done through implementing complex mathematics, probability, and statistics. This process offers measurable guidelines and valuable information for businesses as they forecast and make decisions for the future. The math required for this degree is a complex blend of calculus, statistics, financial math, and numerical methods and models.

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Math Club

As a mathematics student, you can enjoy participation in OBU’s active student Math Club. The organization offers professional growth through relevant topics related to your success. Collaboration with fellow students and faculty, and networking with guests from industry are key factors for your satisfaction and growth. Discussions on advancements in technology, job forecasts for the future and academic excellence are highlighted. Involvement in OBU’s Math Club also offers you key avenues for social connections and personal growth.

Professional Development

OBU mathematics students are invited to attend a regional math conference each year, where they are inspired in their leadership and academic abilities through workshops and sessions. Historically, OBU faculty have been featured session speakers and a host of students compete in mathematics competitions. Through varied events such as this, you can build a supportive, professional network that will benefit your future endeavors.

Faith Integration

The mathematics program is taught from a Christian worldview. It is Christ-centered and scientifically sound. It seeks truth through the integration of faith and knowledge, thereby cultivating a deep appreciation and sense of responsibility for creation. OBU math professors serve as personal mentors, supporting both your intellectual and spiritual development, and instill a solid foundation of faith and biblical perspective through their instruction and personal lives.

Project Lead the Way and STEM

Our university hosts an OBU STEM Day, annually showcasing the many majors on campus that incorporate STEM skills. Students and faculty provide live demonstrations and instruction in various labs and classrooms using diverse equipment for the benefit of all who attend.

As a supporter of STEM careers, OBU has entered an agreement with Project Lead the Way to begin the fall semester of 2024. Through this agreement, OBU will offer an annual $1,000 scholarship to students who have completed at least two PLTW courses during their high school years. This applies to PLTW students who enroll in any area of study at OBU.

Job Opportunities and Outcomes

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that computer and mathematical occupations will grow by 15.2% from now until 2032. The Bureau lists actuary as the 12th fastest growing profession in the nation with an expected growth rate of 23% from now until 2032. Employment in this career field may include that of an actuary, market research analyst, auditor, or investment analyst. The fields of insurance, investment, finance and healthcare are related industries to this profession.

Program Options

Bachelor of Science (BS)

World-Class Faculty

OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.

Dr. Cherith Tucker

Dr. Cherith Tucker

Chair, Division of Mathematics
Associate Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Nathan Drake

Dr. Nathan Drake

Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Sarah Marsh

Dr. Sarah Marsh

Professor of Mathematics

Dr. Krista B. Hands

Dr. Krista B. Hands

Professor of Mathematics

James E. Hurley School of Science and Mathematics