What Can You Do With A
Math Degree
A Math degree focuses on math-related subjects including Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Mathematics, and Statistics. With a Math degree, students learn how to test mathematical theories and apply math principles to solve real-world problems. Math is one of the most flexible majors as mathematics is used in a wide range of disciplines including Economics and Physics.
Math students explore a variety of mathematics modules, which provide a foundation for various career paths. Students with Math degrees may choose to go on to study Computer Science, Teaching, Engineering, or other fields. Many career paths stem directly from a Math degree, such as Accounting or Logistics.
Typical employers for Math graduates
12 Career Options
- Accountant
- Actuary
- Budget Analyst
- Logistician
- Operations Research Analyst
- Economist
- Software Developer
- Statistician
- High School Math Teacher
- Aerospace Engineer
- Financial Analyst
- Cryptographer
What they do
Accountants help organizations and individuals assess the health of their finances. Common job duties for Accountants include performing financial audits, resolving accounting discrepancies, preparing profit and loss statements, and reviewing budgets or expenses. Find out more about what is it like working as an Accountant.
How to become one
Accountant positions often require at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or a related field. However, if you have a Math Degree, you may need to take additional courses to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which is often a requirement for moving beyond entry-level positions. Most states require you to complete 150 credit hours to sit for the CPA exam, with at least 30 credit hours dedicated to Accounting courses.
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What they do
An Actuary analyzes the risk of financial plans for individuals or businesses. They may help review the financial risks associated with pension plans or employee insurance options. Actuaries frequently work as Consultants on a freelance basis, helping organizations reduce the risk of various company policies. Find out more about what is it like working as an Actuary.
How to become one
Most Actuaries enter the field with a Bachelor’s Degree in Math, Actuarial Science, or Statistics. Your coursework also needs to include Economics and Corporate Finance to become eligible for certification after graduation. If you plan on working in the property and casualty field, you need to obtain certification through the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS). If you work in insurance, investments, or finance, you need certification through the Society of Actuaries (SOA).
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What they do
Budget Analysts help organizations develop budgets that meet their specific objectives. Job duties include analyzing financial data, evaluating budgets, and recommending budget cuts. Budget Analysts may also prepare annual reports to help upper management make more informed financial decisions. Find out more about what is it like working as a Budget Analyst.
How to become one
Budget Analysts typically need at least a Bachelor’s Degree with a focus on Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, and Accounting. If you plan on working as a Budget Analyst for government agencies, you need the Certified Government Financial Manager credential, which is available from the Association of Government Accountants. The certification requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree.
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What they do
Logisticians are responsible for analyzing and coordinating supply chains for organizations. Logisticians deal with the entire life cycle of a product from manufacturing or acquisition to delivery. They may help direct the allocation of supplies and review logistical data to help increase the efficiency of delivery methods. Find out more about what is it like working as a Logistician.
How to become one
An Associate’s Degree may qualify you for entry-level Logistician positions such as an Assistant Logistics Coordinator. However, most employers want candidates with at least a Bachelor’s Degree. Your coursework should include Supply Chain Management and Systems Engineering. While not required, many Logisticians choose to obtain certification through the International Society of Logistics (SOLE) or APICS.
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What they do
Operations Research Analysts use advanced mathematics to find solutions for business problems. They often work as consultants, helping businesses address specific issues by reviewing labor requirements, costs, and other factors. Job duties include analyzing large volumes of data and using sophisticated mathematics software. Find out more about what is it like working as an Operations Research Analyst.
How to become one
Entry-level Operations Research Analyst jobs typically require a Bachelor’s Degree in Math, Industrial Engineering, or Business. However, employers tend to favor candidates with a Master’s Degree. Master’s programs also tend to include more relevant majors such as Operations Research and Analytics while opening the doors for advancement.
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What they do
Economists study the economy and market activity to analyze economic changes. They help advise government agencies and businesses on economic decisions. Common job duties for Economists include collecting and reviewing socioeconomic, financial, and political data. They also conduct surveys and make use of historical data to analyze market trends. Find out more about what is it like working as an Economist.
How to become one
Most Economist jobs require at least a Master’s Degree or Ph.D. However, a Bachelor’s Degree in Math may qualify you for entry-level Economic Analyst positions in the government. A Math degree is also the preferred path before earning an advanced degree in Economics. Experts also recommend accepting internships to gain real-world experience analyzing data and researching economic issues.
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What they do
Software Developers develop computer programs, typically to solve the needs of organizations and governments. Developers work with Computer Programmers to create new software or software upgrades. Job duties include designing, testing, and developing software and providing ongoing maintenance to ensure that the software continues to function normally. Find out more about what is it like working as a Software Developer.
How to become one
Most Software Developers have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field. Math is a suitable choice as computer software often involves complex equations and mathematics. Software Developers should also have a strong Computer Programming background, which can be obtained by taking Programming classes in college.
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What they do
A Statistician uses statistical and mathematical theories to summarize real-world data. They may use data obtained from a variety of industries, including science and business. They use this data to help companies predict or understand potential trends, enabling their clients to make better business decisions. Find out more about what is it like working as a Statistician.
How to become one
Most Statisticians have advanced degrees in Mathematics or Economics. A Bachelor’s Degree may allow you to obtain an entry-level position. However, employers typically prefer to hire candidates with at least a Master’s Degree. Universities also recommend completing courses in Computer Science, Engineering, and Physics to prepare you for work in a variety of industries.
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What they do
High School Math Teachers teach math to students. They work in classrooms and prepare a curriculum that meets state standards. Math Teachers are also responsible for assessing the educational needs and challenges of their students. Job duties include preparing and grading classwork and teaching multiple groups of students throughout the school day. Find out more about what is it like working as a High School Math Teacher.
How to become one
All states require High School Teachers to have at least a Bachelor’s Degree. Some states also require you to have a degree in the subject that you plan to teach. The most common path is to enroll in a Teacher Education Program during your undergraduate studies. After graduation, you need to obtain a Teacher’s License and additional certification to teach High School in your state.
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What they do
An Aerospace Engineer designs aircraft, satellites, or spacecraft for civilian or military use. They are often employed by governments or industries involved in manufacturing, analysis, design, or research and development. Aerospace Engineer job duties include ensuring that projects meet quality standards and inspecting damaged parts to identify the sources of problems. Find out more about what is it like working as an Aerospace Engineer.
How to become one
Becoming an Aerospace Engineer requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. If you are pursuing a Math degree, consider dual majoring in Math and Aerospace Engineering or obtaining a graduate-level Engineering degree. A strong Math background is essential for Aerospace Engineers. However, you also need to complete courses related to Aerospace Engineering, such as Physics, Chemistry, and Engineering.
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What they do
Financial Analysts typically work for finance companies such as lenders or investment firms. Financial Analysts help analyze the risk of investment opportunities or loan applications to boost profits. Job duties for Financial Analysts include compiling financial reports, evaluating financial data, and identifying economic or business trends. Find out more about what is it like working as a Financial Analyst.
How to become one
Most Financial Analyst positions require at least a Bachelor’s degree. Common fields of study include Accounting, Economics, Finance, Statistics, and Math. Advanced positions typically require certification from the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. The requirements for certification include a Bachelor’s Degree and four years of qualified work experience.
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What they do
A Cryptographer develops security systems to encrypt data and provide increased security for sensitive information. Cryptographers are responsible for developing new algorithms and ciphers using mathematically based encryption methods. Cryptographers may also look for vulnerabilities and attempt to improve existing encryption solutions.
How to become one
Cryptographers need at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Math, or Computer Engineering. Some positions may also require extensive work experience, such as in one of the other Cyber Security careers. However, some government agencies such as the National Security Agency (NSA) hire undergrads directly after graduation.
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