Like most ucsb math profs the problem is that he's obviously an expert in his field, but he has zero knowledge in actually educating. I didn't even need this class for credit I just wanted to learn smt but it wasn't worth it at all. Don't take if u have an heavy course-load, if you're capable of self learning everything then go ahead.

Only a few quizzes and tests mattered in this class. Be ready to read the textbook and do the optional problems to prepare. Otherwise, a very straightforward professor with clear criteria.

Pedersen is a highly intelligent professor. The notation is quite confusing especially if you are unfamiliar with actuarial notation. The tests are extremely hard, but luckily he allows open everything so you can use outside resources to help you do well. I would recommend taking this class with Pedersen if you are interested in the subject matter

He grades everything at the last minute. We have no homework, and his lectures are useless. He doesn't give us proper examples or apply what we learn; he just "teaches" us the concept and expects us to understand it. I am not even sure how problems are very difficult; he better curve. Not ready for the final.

Though class has no prereqs that relate to finance, Pedersen teaches it as if you're already supposed to know everything he does. Lectures consist of spewed out random equations and no logic/work with a spreadsheet that makes no sense/no explanation of how he got numbers. No hw to supplement, quizzes extremely difficult, no clear structure of work.

Great at teaching staff. He really knows what he is talking about. The class content is hard but I actually started to be interested in finance because of his lectures. He gives notes and materials for you to study the topics too and is very generous in grading the quizzes and tests.