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Why Mathematics?

Mathematics is considered one of the oldest and most fundamental sciences.Mathematicians, as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor, use mathematical theory, computational techniques, algorithms and the latest Technology Degree">computer technology to solve economic, engineering, physics and business problems.Few who major in math graduate from college to actually become mathematicians.Typically, a mathematics degree is coupled with a similarly related degree program or applied mathematics specialization.

Why would one want to pursue a degree in mathematics? The world is becoming increasingly quantitative. Mathematics plays a vital role in deciding how policies affect our lives, ranging from health and the environment to multi-million dollar investment ventures.As a result, organizations are depending greatly on complex mathematical models and quantitative reasoning to solve their problems.

Mathematics degree programs prepare students to use mathematical theory and apply standardized formulas, principles and methodology, which assists in solving practical problems in our business world today.Mathematics degree programs provide students with strong quantitative skills that will give a competitive edge in virtually any career.

Mathematics Degree Overview

A degree in mathematics provides good preparation for a variety of careers.It will prepare you for real-world problems and allow opportunity for a broad range of highly paid positions in government, business and education.It will assist in preparing the next generation for the analytically demanding world.

Mathematics curriculum typically includes logic, linear programming, algebra, geometry, probability theory & statistics, calculus, computational science, discrete mathematics, numerical analysis & theory.Many colleges and universities recommend that students majoring in mathematics take courses in a field that is closely related such as computer science or engineering.Many employers seek for graduates with a double major in mathematics and another related discipline.They will also look for graduates with research and tutoring experience in mathematics.

Although employment opportunities exist for individuals with a bachelor's degree, a master's degree in mathematics is recommended and sometimes regarded as the minimum educational requirement for math related occupations.

Career Opportunities in Mathematics

Some of the many career opportunities available with a mathematics degree include: teachers, mathematicians, college professors, statisticians, actuaries, budget analysts, accountants, operations analysts, financial advisors and economists.It is important to keep in mind that economists, engineers, physicists and computer scientists use mathematics extensively in their everyday jobs.Often times they will hold master's and Ph.D. degrees in mathematics to strengthen their offerings.Other professionals such as statisticians, operations analysts and actuaries, become specialists in a particular mathematics field of study.

The College Majors Handbook reports that annual average salaries of general math majors with a bachelor's degree is $56,500, 17% higher than the average for all college grads.According to the U.S. Department of Labor in May 2004, median annual earnings of mathematicians were $81,240. The middle 50 percent earned between $60,050 and $101,360.Although this is specific to mathematicians, consider having another specialization in a math related field, and your opportunities are endless.