What can I do with a major in Mathematics/Applied Mathematics?
Mathematicians create new mathematical theories and techniques involving the latest technology and solve economic, scientific, engineering, and business problems using mathematical knowledge and computational tools. Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques, such as mathematical modeling and computational methods, to formulate and solve practical problems in business, government, engineering and the physical, life, and social sciences. Much work in applied mathematics, however, is carried on by persons with titles other than mathematicians. Engineers, computer scientists, physicists, and economists are among those who use mathematics extensively but have job titles other than mathematician.
Related occupations:
| Accountant |
Actuary |
Aerospace Engineer |
| Applications Programmer |
Appraiser |
Architect |
| Astronomer |
Bank Manager |
Bank Officer |
| Cartographer |
Computer Consultant |
Computer Engineer |
| Computer Programmer |
Consumer Loan Officer |
Cost Analyst |
| Cost Estimator |
Credit Manager/Officer |
Cryptographer/Cryptologist |
| Database Manager |
Demographer |
Economist |
| Educator |
Engineer |
Engineering Lab Tech |
| Environmental Technologist |
Financial Manager |
Financial Planner |
| Geologist |
Hydrologist |
Information Scientist |
| Investment Banker |
Investment Manager |
Market Research Analyst |
| Mathematician |
Meteorologist |
Nuclear Scientist |
| Numerical Analyst |
Pharmacologist |
Physicist |
| Radar Technician |
Research Analyst |
Risk Analyst |
| Software Engineer |
Statistician |
Surveyor |
| Systems Analyst |
Systems Engineer |
Technical Writer |
| Urban Planner |
|
Possible Employers of Mathematics/Applied Mathematics Majors:
| State/Federal Government |
Colleges/Universities |
| Trust/Insurance Companies |
Science Consulting Firms |
| Public/Private Schools |
Engineering Consulting Firms |
| Computer Consulting Firms |
Research and Testing Services |
| Educational Services |
Security and Commodity Exchanges |
| Pharmaceutical Companies |
Insurance Companies |
| Public Service Companies |
Accounting Firms |
| Actuarial Firms |
Research Laboratories |
| Banks |
Defense Industry |
Skills Important for Mathematics/Applied Mathematics Majors:
- Ability to make sound judgments, decisions and solve quantitative problems
- Proficiency in writing, speaking, and clearly explaining scientific research
- Ability to organize, analyze and interpret numerical data
- Detail oriented
Personal attributes important for Mathematics/Applied Mathematics Majors:
- Imagination, patience, self-discipline, and achievement-oriented
- Appreciate challenges
- Ability to frame an inquiry and respond objectively
Related activities useful for Mathematics/Applied Mathematics Majors:
- Do an internship
- Work jigsaw puzzles or play games of strategy
- Join a math club, science organization, or investment group
- Work part-time or volunteer as a sports statistician
- Serve as a treasurer or financial officer for a civic organization or a social agency
Print Resources:
-
Burnett, Rebecca. Careers for Number Crunchers & Other Quantitative Types. VGM Career Books, (latest edition).
-
Careers in Applied Mathematics. (pamphlet), Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics.
-
Careers in Mathematics. (pamphlet), Mathematical Association of America.
-
Computer, Mathematical, and Operations Research Occupations. Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Dept. of Labor, (latest edition).
-
Career Choices for the 90s for Students of Mathematics. Career Associates, 1990.
Internet Web Resources:
Professional Associations:
- American Mathematical Society
- Association for Women in Mathematics
- Institute of Mathematical Statistics
- Society for Industrial & Applied Mathematics
This information was adapted from:
Fort Lewis College, Career Service’s homepage: http://cso.fortlewis.edu
