How a Mathematics Major Prepares You for the Job Market
A mathematics degree provides students with an advanced education in basic and specialized math. Depending on the area of math studied, students will cover arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics and trigonometry again in their postsecondary education. Most of these subjects are taught at an advanced level in college and involve more complex calculations. Students are also taught logical reasoning, theorems and axioms. During school, mathematics majors will build on fundamental math concepts, while discovering new and challenging math problems that are applicable to professional work.
Best Career Paths for Mathematics Majors
Mathematics can be used in a variety of jobs and industries. When it comes to finding a job, mathematics majors have several career paths to choose from, including:
- Mathematician. Mathematicians solve economic, scientific and engineering problems using advanced mathematics and other acquired skills. They apply mathematical theory, computations, algorithms and computer technology to analyze and solve problems. There are two types of mathematicians: theoretical and applied mathematicians. Theoretical mathematicians develop new principles and find logical explanations of previous math principles. They are interested in making sense of and expanding basic math knowledge, without seeking its practical use. Theoretical mathematicians aide in developing or improving scientific and engineering inventions and processes. Many theoretical mathematicians teach and conduct research for universities. On the other hand, applied mathematicians use theories and procedures to compute practical problems in numerous fields. Their skills can be used in business, engineering and most sciences, because their areas of math have established uses and practicality. Applied mathematicians may work in industrial research and development or analyze and decode encryption systems to share military, political and law-enforcement information. According to a 2009 survey by job site, CareerCast.com, mathematicians have the No. 1 best job, because of their favorable conditions, reasonable income and growth potential. Mathematicians made an average salary of $95,150 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Actuary. An actuary works in actuarial sciences, which combines mathematics and statistics and is applied toward finance and insurance-related services. Actuaries use their mathematical knowledge and statistical skills to assess the risk of undesirable events that occur. They do so by determining the likelihood of future events, thinking of new ways to avoid or reduce the chances of undesirable events and decreasing the negative effects of undesirable events that do happen. They also address financial matters for individuals and companies that need assistance in their investments, insurance policies, pension plans and credit management. Some actuaries consult clients on a contractual basis, by providing them with professional advice on how to reduce their risk and protect their money. Actuaries made an average salary of $84,810 in 2008, according to the Bureau.
How to Market Your Mathematics Degree
Since many fields use math in their daily operations, mathematics majors can market their degree to work in various occupations. Mathematics majors can offer their computing skills and logical reasoning in business, science and engineering fields. Your understanding and application of numbers can lead to new discoveries and procedures that increase business or develop new products. Be sure to promote your ability to solve problems by tackling complex math in monetary or business assignments. In addition, your mathematics knowledge helps you make sense of confusing numerical problems, as well as train others to perform the same math techniques.
