UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
SECTION 1: MODULE SPECIFICATIONS
1.
Title of the module : Survival Models (MA525)
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science
3.
Start date of the module : Prior to 2008 (revised version start date September 2014)
4.
The number of students expected to take the module: 90 (2014/5)
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other
relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate [M]): H
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents : 15 (ECTS 7.5)
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern): Autumn term
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules:
Prerequisite modules: MA516 Contingencies I
There are no co-requisite modules.
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science, BSc (Hons) Financial Mathematics (including programmes with a year
in industry)
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
a) describe the principles of actuarial modelling;
b) describe non-parametric estimation procedures for the lifetime distribution, including censoring,
the Kaplan-Meier estimate, Nelson-Aalen estimate and Cox regression model (proportional
hazards model);
c) derive maximum likelihood estimators (and hence estimates) for the transition intensities in
models of transfers between states with piecewise constant transition intensities;
d) describe the Binomial and Poisson models of mortality, deriving maximum likelihood estimators
for the probability/force of mortality and compare with the Markov model;
e) describe how to estimate transition intensities depending on age, exactly or using the census
approximation, including calculation of exposed to risk and specification of census formulae
based on various age definitions;
f) describe and carry out tests for the consistency of crude estimates with a standard table or a set
of graduated estimates;
g) describe the process of graduation and the advantages and disadvantages of the various
methods.
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this module will have further developed:
a) a logical mathematical approach to solving problems;
b) skills in oral and written communication;
c) time management and organisation skills;
d) studying.
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
To follow objectives (i) and (vi) to (x) of the professional curriculum of the Faculty and Institute of
Actuaries examination CT4. This syllabus can be viewed on http://www.actuaries.org.uk.
This is a dynamic syllabus, changing regularly to reflect current practice.
14. Indicative Reading List
Students are recommended to purchase the study notes published by the Actuarial Education
Company for Subject CT4 – Models.
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total
study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes.
Number of contact hours: 36.
Number of independent learning hours: 102.
Total study hours: 150.
The lectures, which will contain a number of worked and extended examples to aid
understanding and emphasise the practical application of the theory, will cover learning
outcomes 11(a)-(g) and 12(a),(b). Coursework, which counts towards the module mark, is
intended to reinforce the lecture material, encourage the student to read the study notes
and to apply the concepts taught to practical problems. This will additionally cover learning
outcomes 12(c),(d).
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module learning
outcomes
The module will be assessed by examination (80%) and coursework (20%).
Coursework: This will consist of two closed-book written assessments which are completed by
students during contact hours. These consist of a multiple choice test to assess learning outcomes
11(a)-(g), and a spreadsheet based test which covers learning outcomes 11(d) – (f). In addition the
coursework assesses 12(a)-(d).
Examination: A 3-hour written examination in the Summer term that will consist of questions and
numerical problems requiring short and long answers and they test learning outcomes 11(a)-(g) and
12(a)-(d).
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
This module has been in existence for several years. There should be minimal overall impact on the
above resources.
18. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality legislation,
and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its teaching. Within
this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and
discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared disabilities will be
made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s disability/dyslexia support service,
and specialist support will be provided where needed.
19. Campus where module will be delivered: Canterbury
SECTION 2: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Statement by the School Director of Learning and Teaching/School Director of Graduate Studies
(as appropriate): "I confirm I have been consulted on the above module proposal and have given advice
on the correct procedures and required content of module proposals"
................................................................
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Director of Learning and Teaching/Director of
Graduate Studies (delete as applicable)
Date
…………………………………………………
Print Name
Statement by the Head of School: "I confirm that the School has approved the introduction of the
module and, where the module is proposed by School staff, will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of School
Date
…………………………………………………….
Print Name
Module Specification Template
Last updated February 2013
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