Careers in the Mathematical Sciences
by T. B. Muenzenberger
Positions In Business, Government, and Industry
Mathematical Science positions in business, government, and industry require a B.S.
in either mathematics, computer science, statistics, or a related field.
An M.S. or a Ph.D. will command a higher starting rank and salary and ensure faster advancement.
A background that includes courses in computer science is essential.
A knowledge of statistics and other sciences may be necessary.
A background that includes courses in accounting, economics, and finance may be very valuable.
Types of Jobs Available
- Actuary: solves
real-world problems involving money, probabilities, and future events;
evaluates risks and helps design retirement plans and set insurance premiums.
- Computer and Information Systems Manager:
manages computer resources and information systems;
solves problems involving information processing and transfer.
- Computer Programmer:
writes, tests, and maintains computer programs;
conceives, designs, and tests logical structures for solving problems by computer.
- Computer Scientist and Database Administrator:
designs and develops programming and information systems; creates and applies high level technologies.
- Computer Software Engineer:
designs and develops new computer software systems; incorporates new technologies.
- Computer Systems Analysts:
plans, designs, and develops computer systems; solves computer problems; applies computer technology.
- Cryptologist:
cryptographer designs and evaluates encipherment systems; cryptanalyst breaks code.
- Mathematician:
creates mathematical models and systems; solves equations and proves theorems.
- Numerical Analyst:
uses numerical procedures and computers to analyze data and model physical systems.
- Operations Research Analyst:
optimizes the operation of a system and provides a quantitative basis for decision making,
especially the allocation of resources.
- Statistician:
analyses and utilizes data to objectively make decisions and predictions.
Positions At Universities
Mathematical Science positions at Universities require a Ph.D. in either mathematics,
computer science, statistics, or a related field. The duties include:
- Research: create mathematical and statistical models and systems, solve equations,
prove theorems, write programs, and author journal articles and books.
- Service: direct theses and dissertations, obtain grants, serve on committees, give
public lectures, attend professional meetings, and administrate.
- Teaching: teach service courses, courses for majors and graduate students, and
seminars for graduate students and faculty.
The general fields of specialization
in mathematics are:
- Algebra: the study of operations and symmetry.
- Analysis: the study of functions.
- Applied Math: the study of models.
- Topology: the study of surfaces.
The
Occupational Outlook Handbook
published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics contains more information about:
Teachers - Postsecondary
Positions At Colleges
Mathematical Science positions at Colleges require at least a B.S. or a B.A. in mathematics
or a related field. The higher level jobs require an M.S. or a Ph.D.
A background that includes courses in computer science and statistics may be very valuable.
The duties include teaching service courses and courses for majors and performing service work.
The
Occupational Outlook Handbook
published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics contains more information about:
Teachers - Postsecondary
Positions At Schools
Mathematical Science positions at Schools require a Bachelors Degree in mathematics, mathematics
education, or a related field and also teacher certification. A
background that includes courses in computer science is necessary. Duties
include teaching mathematics and computer science courses and performing
service work.
The
Occupational Outlook Handbook
published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics contains more information about:
Teachers - Elementary, Middle, and Secondary