The Society of Actuaries James C. Hickman Scholar program was established to increase the number of academic actuaries who hold a PhD and an actuarial designation, and who intend to pursue academic careers in the United States or Canada. The program is designed to provide stipends to doctoral students who will, through their studies, address research and education needs of the profession, including both the theoretical and practical aspects.
The program was named to honor James C. Hickman (deceased), FSA, MAAA, ACAS, and former dean of the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Business. During a 40-year academic career Hickman made numerous contributions to teaching, research and scholarship, including co-authorship of the Actuarial Mathematics textbook. He also served the profession, including as a member of the SOA Board of Governors and trustee of the Actuarial Foundation.
Deadline: March 3, 2025
Individuals who meet the following requirements may apply:
- Enrolled fulltime, have recently been admitted or are currently applying to a qualifying doctoral program in the United States or Canada.
- A qualifying doctoral program is one in actuarial science or a field related to actuarial science (e.g. business, demography, economics, financial economics, insurance, mathematics, risk management, statistics).
- Applicants may apply at the same time they are applying for a doctoral program; if selected these applicants will be awarded the stipend conditional upon enrollment in a qualifying doctoral program.
- Hold a Fellowship–level actuarial credential or are pursuing Associateship or Fellowship membership of an accrediting actuarial organization (i.e. AI, CAS, CIA, IFoA, SOA).
- Applicants who are already Associate members (including those awarded the CERA designation) will be expected to pursue a Fellowship credential.
- All applicants must have at least two actuarial exams passed.
Each stipend is generally $20,000 per academic year, renewable up to two times as set forth below. The stipend may be used at the discretion of the doctoral student for expenses that will aid in the completion of the PhD and the actuarial credential if not yet attained.
Applicants should be aware that stipend funds are provided for qualified expenses (tuition, books, fees, etc.). Qualified expenses do not include room and board. Stipend funds not used for qualified expenses may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor if you have any questions.
Stipends are awarded at the sole discretion of the SOA and all decisions are final. Failure to meet eligibility requirements on a continuing basis may subject recipients to loss of stipend.