Careers in Math
CAREERS IN MATH
A math degree can lead to many exciting careers, many of which don’t have “mathematics” in the title.
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to analyze the economic costs of risk and uncertainty. Most actuaries work for insurance companies, consulting firms, and government agencies. They need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation and must pass a series of exams to become certified. Employment opportunities and salaries are excellent.
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians apply mathematics, statistics, and data to biology. They collect, analyze, and summarize data to draw conclusions in the areas of medicine and agriculture.
Cryptologist
Cryptologists use their knowledge of math to create, improve, and sometimes to break encryption systems used to keep private information secure. Most cryptologists work for the National Security Agency, other government intelligence agencies, or in academia.
Data Scientist
Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data. Employment of data scientists is projected to grow 36 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Salaries are also excellent. Companies such as tech firms, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and consulting firms hire data scientists.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts analyze data and make recommendations to help organizations make investment decisions. They can be found in investment banks, mutual funds, pension funds, and insurance companies.
Mathematician
Mathematicians develop new mathematical theories, advance knowledge in mathematics, and construct new tools to solve real-world problems. Mathematicians are employed in a wide range of industries, including academia, finance, and government agencies. Employment of mathematicians is projected to grow 31 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Operations Research Analysts
Operations research analysts manage and evaluate data to improve business operations, supply chains, pricing models, and marketing. Employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. They often work for consulting firms, as well as in a variety of industries, including finance, transportation, and logistics.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative analysts are professionals who specialize in the design, development, and implementation of mathematical or statistical models intended to solve complex financial problems. They typically work for commercial banks, investment banks, wealth management firms, and hedge funds.
Software Developer
Software developers write code to create software programs that solve specific problems. Software developers can be found in tech companies, as well as in organizations from a variety of industries that use software to support their operations.
Statistician
Statisticians analyze data, design experiments, and develop statistical models to make inferences and solve problems. Statisticians are employed in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government.
