2026 FIN4340 Actuarial Finance - Syllabus - Course Policies and Grading

Q: What topics does the course cover in actuarial finance?

The course analyzes actuarial cash flow models using simple, compound, discount rate, and effective interest functions. It applies these functions to present value and future value of annuities, loans, and more complex cash flow streams.

Q: What are the expected learning outcomes for students?

Students learn to compute present/current/accumulated values, describe annuities and their cash flows, and understand time value across different cash flow types. They also develop loan calculation skills and problem-solving methods from first principles.

Q: How is grading determined and what are exam policies?

The course grade includes Exam 1 (15%), Exam 2 (15%), Final Exam (50%), Coaching Actuaries homework (15%), and Python homework (5%). Exams are closed-book and proctored; the final is cumulative and makeup exams are limited to extremely urgent and extenuating reasons.

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by MrHarris58

Introduces actuarial cash flow models and the time value of money for annuities, loans, and complex cash flow streams. Covers simple/compound interest, discount rate concepts, and functions used to compute present value and future value. Requires prerequisites from FIN 3310 and targets problem-solving from first principles. Specifies course materials, grading breakdown across two exams and a cumulative final, homework via Coaching Actuaries and Python components, exam rules, credit requirements, attendance expectations, withdrawal deadlines, submission contingencies, and policies for professional email and AI use.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages6

Reading Time15 min

AccessFree to download

Course Description

Expected Learning Outcomes

Course Material

Grading and Homework Assignments

Grade Distribution

Exam Rules and Credit

Policies

Homework Submission

Email Policy

Attendance and Participation

Withdrawal and Excused Absences

Technical Submission Issues

AI Use Policy

Accommodations Policy

2026 FIN4340 Actuarial Finance CRN: 12676 Fall 2026 Professor. Chia-Chun (Cici) Chiang [cchiang@utep.edu](cchiang@utep.edu)[ ](cchiang@utep.edu)[Office: BUSN 247](Office: BUSN 247) Class Hours: Monday/Wednesday 1:30 – 2:50 pm (BUSN 329) Office Hours: Monday/Wednesday 4:20–6:30 pm; or by appointment Course Information: What this class is about and what we will do COURSE DESCRIPTION This course provides an introduction to actuarial cash flow models. Simple, compound, rate of discount, and effective interest functions are analyzed. These functions are used in the calculation of present value and future values of various types of annuities, loans, and more complex cash flow streams. Students enrolled in FIN 4340 should have successfully completed FIN 3310. EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES • Understand and be able to perform calculations relating to the present value, current value, and accumulated value. • Describe different annuities and their cash flows. • Understand the time value of money among different types of annuities as well as more complex cash flow streams. • Understand key concepts concerning loans and how to perform related calculations. • Teach actuarial cash flow models, which constitute the theoretical foundation of actuarial science. • Develop analytical problem-solving skills to solve complex problems from first principles rather than memorization. COURSE MATERIAL • Required Text: Lecture Notes & Coaching Actuaries • Coaching Actuaries: Coaching Actuaries is an online software that allows students to submit homework assignments and check their work online. Access to Pearson Coaching Actuaries is required for this course. Explore Purchase Options here. Coaching Actuaries inClass.docx GRADING AND HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS Grade Distribution: [100-90] = A (90, 80] = B (80-70] = C (70-60] = D < 59 = F Grade Components: | Exam 1 | 15% | | --- | --- | | Exam 2 | 15% | | Final Exam | 50% | | Coaching Actuaries Homework | 15% | | Python Homework | 5% | | Total | 100% | Exam 1, Exam 2, and Final: o All exams will be closed-book, and no formula sheet is allowed. All exams are in-person and proctored. The final exam will be cumulative. All students must take the exams at the scheduled time. You are allowed to use a calculator. Makeup exams are not stipulated for UEC exams and finals except under extremely urgent and extenuating reasons. Students are required to check and report any exam conflict with pre-scheduled dates related to Athletic performance or rehearsals and religious observances. If for very severe medical reasons a student has to miss an exam, the instructor has to be notified before the exam, formal documentation has to be provided and verified after which a conflict exam must be performed within one week of the regular exam. SOA FM EXAM AND UEC CREDIT To obtain UEC credit, a student must score at least 85% . No exceptions. What we do in class and practice is geared towards achieving a successful outcome. Homework Assignments: The homework assignments aim to help you understand the theories covered in the class and to prepare you for the exams. You are allowed and encouraged to collaborate on these problems, although every student must submit their own answers. Late homework is not accepted. Please complete your assignments well in advance. Class E-Mail Each student is required to have the e-mail account that is associated with the Blackboard system up to date. Any class requirements sent in the e-mail messages through the Blackboard are considered delivered. You should check that e-mail account regularly Email Policy The finance department's policy is that all emails sent to professors or teaching assistants are professional and formatted. A formal greeting and salutation are required. Proper grammar, spelling, and format are required. You must clearly state the problem or question that will be addressed. You must identify the class, section, tim

FAQs

What topics does the course cover in actuarial finance?

The course analyzes actuarial cash flow models using simple, compound, discount rate, and effective interest functions. It applies these functions to present value and future value of annuities, loans, and more complex cash flow streams.

What are the expected learning outcomes for students?

Students learn to compute present/current/accumulated values, describe annuities and their cash flows, and understand time value across different cash flow types. They also develop loan calculation skills and problem-solving methods from first principles.

How is grading determined and what are exam policies?

The course grade includes Exam 1 (15%), Exam 2 (15%), Final Exam (50%), Coaching Actuaries homework (15%), and Python homework (5%). Exams are closed-book and proctored; the final is cumulative and makeup exams are limited to extremely urgent and extenuating reasons.

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by MrHarris58