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Abstract

The thesis is an attempt to discover a right relationship between actuarial training and occupational practice. The problem is a vital one for a small but powerful profession seeking to adapt to significant changes. The dimensions of the problem were developed by obtaining information from actuarial surveys and interpreting this information to provide new knowledge.

The first part of the project was a study of actuarial training and occupational practice up to 1973. For comparison purposes, other British professions were briefly considered.

An initial survey was designed and pilot questionnaires were despatched in July 1973. The answers showed that the questions had not been ambiguous. The survey was accordingly extended to cover all 236 actuaries who qualified for the Fellowship of the Institute of Actuaries in the four sets of examinations spanning the two calendar years 1972 and 1973. Follow-up letters resulted in a response rate of 81% (192 replies).

A study of the education and examination of actuaries reveals a high withdrawal rate. The survey was therefore extended to seek information from students who have failed to complete the Institute examinations.

The whole data was coded for computer data processing. The results were then analysed.

Information was obtained concerning the educational and noneducational background of respondents. Their views were considered on the important areas of working practice at present and in the future. The working areas anticipated were expected to be compatible with the modifications in examination syllabuses proposed. Conclusions were reached concerning qualifying time, exemptions, development of personality and motivation as revealed by those who withdrew from the Institute examinations.

The final part of the thesis considers fields of further study relating to actuarial training and complementing the present project.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Departments:	School of Policy & Global Affairs > Department of Sociology & Criminology School of Policy & Global Affairs > School of Policy & Global Affairs Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

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