The quantitative and analytical skills, developed by students who major in mathematics, are needed in almost every profession, such as lawyers, programmers, reporters, teachers, geologists, biologists, and in various industrial jobs. More and more, employers are looking for applicants who are good thinkers. They are not looking for narrow, specialized expertise, but applicants who demonstrate general problem-solving skills, the ability to synthesize information and to reason logically have an advantage for employment. A mathematics major is not merely vocational training. Rather, we aim to equip you with skills, knowledge, attitudes, flexibility, and ability to learn and be prepared for a rapidly changing world. In addition to fields which use mathematics directly, such as operations research, teaching, statistical consulting and actuarial work, a BA in mathematics provides a good background for entry to jobs in business or admission to MBA programs, law school, public health programs and engineering school. For more information about various jobs in which mathematics is used, talk to any member of the mathematics and statistics faculty.
Here are websites with other descriptions.
- MAA Career Profiles
- Why Should I be a Math Major? - Duke University
- Why Major in Math? - LSU
- Careers in Statistics - ASA
How much can I expect to make?
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics - on Mathematicians
"Median annual earnings of mathematicians were $86,930 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $62,970 and $106,250. The lowest 10 percent had earnings of less than $43,500, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $132,190.
In early 2007, the average annual salary for mathematicians employed by the Federal Government in supervisory, nonsupervisory, and managerial positions was $93,539; for mathematical statisticians, $96,121; and for cryptanalysts, the average was $90,435."
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics - on Statisticians
"Median annual wage-and-salary earnings of statisticians were $65,720 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $48,480 and $87,850. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,010, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $108,630.
The average annual salary for statisticians in the Federal Government was $85,690 in 2007, while mathematical statisticians averaged $96,121. "
For information about career opportunities, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics links above. Also, see 2007 Occupational Employment and Wages for mathematicians and statisticians.
