WHAT TO DO WITH A MAJOR IN . . . 

Mathematics

Mathematics is one of the oldest and most fundamental sciences. Mathematicians use mathematical theory, computational techniques, algorithms, and the latest computer technology to solve economic, scientific, engineering, financial, and business problems. Mathematical skills are in greater and greater demand in today's workforce.  The government, private industry, health and environmental fields, all areas of engineering, and the academic world all require sophisticated mathematical skills to help solve various problems.  If you do decide to pursue Mathematics, you will gain an educational background that many employers seek in job applicants.  Your research skills, critical thinking and problem-solving ability, and general mathematical analysis skills will be sharpened through your mathematics courses, and also through various elective

courses.

A bachelor's degree in mathematics is the minimum education needed for prospective mathematicians.  In the federal government, entry-level job candidates usually must have a four-year degree with a major in mathematics. 

Job Outlook

Starting salaries are contingent upon geographic location and the individual applicant’s work experience and initiative, and usually range from $49,000 to $84,000.  Employment of mathematicians is expected to increase 7 to 13 percent.  However, keen competition for jobs is expected.  Master’s degree and Ph.D. holders with a strong background in mathematics and a related discipline, such as engineering or computer science, and who apply mathematics theory to real-world problem will have the best job prospects in related occupations.

Ten 10 Best Jobs You Can Get Today

Compiling research on 200 different positions, this year's JobsRated.com report ranks mathematician as the country's best job, followed by actuary and statistician.

Additional Resources

For hundreds of different types of jobs in areas such as computer science, network computing, mathematics, and mathematics education, the Occupational Outlook Handbook tells you the training and education needs, earnings, expected job prospects, what workers do on the job, and working conditions.

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