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The Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science (SAAS) at the University of Hong Kong’s (HKU) School of Computing and Data Science (CDS) has launched, in collaboration with AIA Group and FIS®, an innovative actuarial science course set to commence in September 2025. The programme is designed to equip students with practical skills essential for success in the rapidly evolving insurance industry.

The curriculum emphasises the application of actuarial principles—such as life contingencies, discounting, reserving, and probabilistic analysis—to the development and validation of models. Students will also engage with topics including data handling, coding, and quality assurance. Through lectures, they will acquire both theoretical knowledge and technological skills essential for solving complex problems in insurance, finance, and risk management.

To strengthen the connection between classroom learning and professional practice, AIA will contribute two experienced actuaries to co-teach the course, guiding students through real-world case studies and modelling projects, while FIS will provide 41 licences to Insurance Risk Suite, an industry-standard actuarial modelling platform, enabling students to gain hands-on experience with tools widely adopted by insurers worldwide.

A distinctive feature of the course is its focus on real-world application. Students will gain practical experience in assumption-setting, cash flow projection, valuation, and systematic troubleshooting, enabling them to bridge academic training with professional practice. By the end of the course, they are expected to demonstrate proficiency in actuarial modelling software, the ability to decompose complex business problems into analytically tractable components, and competence in collaborative problem-solving.

Dr David Lee, Programme Director of Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science, said, “This course reflects HKU’s commitment to combining rigorous academic learning with technological innovation. By training our students in both actuarial theory and advanced modelling platforms, we empower them to shape the future of insurance and finance through meaningful, technology-driven contributions.”

The initiative reflects Hong Kong’s growing role as a regional hub for insurance innovation and professional talent development, with the Asia-Pacific leading global insurance market growth.

About the School of Computing and Data Science
The School of Computing and Data Science comprises three departments, namely Computer Science, AI & Data Science and Statistics & Actuarial Science. The School strives to advance education and research across the fields of computer science and data science, artificial intelligence, statistical decision sciences, fintech, and actuarial science, and to foster a vibrant academic community that drives innovative education, promotes multidisciplinary research, and facilitates technological innovation.

For any query about the course, please contact cdsug@hku.hk.