Overview

An honours degree offers outstanding undergraduate students in all programs with the opportunity to undertake original research and strengthen their knowledge in a specific area of interest. It is designed to develop a range of skills that are widely applicable outside the particular research specialty: e.g. conducting literature searches, critical evaluation of the literature, written and oral communication. The experience will provide skills in thinking, research and writing that will be invaluable in future pursuits, whether academic or in the workplace.

More information regarding Honours at Macquarie is available on the Undergraduate Studies Honours website. 

Requirements

To apply for honours, a minimum grade point average (GPA) at 300 level of 3.25 is required. However, successful applicants usually have an overall GPA close to 4.00. It may not be possible to offer a place in the honours program to every applicant who meets these requirements. Preference will be given to applicants with very strong academic records with research interests which fit within the Department's existing research profile.

How to Begin

It is important that students investigate the research specialties of staff within the Actuarial Studies Department to ensure that supervision is available in their area of interest. The Departmental Honours Co-ordinator, in conjunction with other members of staff, will then work closely with candidates to formulate an innovative and accessible dissertation topic.

Programs on Offer

The following degree programs are offerred by the Department

• BCom-Act Stud (Hons) - honours degree of Bachelor of Commerce-Actuarial Studies
• BCom - Act Stud (Hons) LLB - honours degree of Bachelor of Commerce -Actuarial Studies with the degree of Bachelor of Laws

Enquiries

Enquiries regarding the honours program of the BCom – Actuarial Studies should be directed to Shauna Ferris.

Scholarships

University Scholarships 

Scholarships and other financial support are available to selected honours students. These scholarships are awarded to students commencing an honours program. Selection is based on academic merit including overall grade point average (GPA), 300 level GPA, as well as the number of prizes awarded during undergraduate study at Macquarie University. Up to four scholarships will be available in each College, valued at $5000 for one year for a full-time candidate, and $2500 per year over two years for a part-time candidate. NB: The scholarships cannot be held in conjunction with another similar award. No application form is necessary. Suitable candidates applying for an Honours program may be recommended by their Division.

Department Scholarships

The Department of Actuarial Studies understands that students may have personal and financial commitments whist studying, so to assist, the Department offers a limited number of Honours scholarships to full time students commencing the honours program. Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis based on meritorious academic performance and other academic criteria.