Mathematics & Statistics Majors Guide

What Does it Mean to Study Mathematics and Statistics?

The schedules of airline flights. Interest rates on home loans. Political polls. Grades received on English papers. The calculation of minimum wage. Blueprints for the construction of a church. Funding for the neighborhood park. While each of these systems may seem totally unrelated, all of them are based on numbers.

It has been said that math rules our lives. From the number of years of school required to do one thing, to the amount of money someone wants to earn, to the average number of children to have, to the number of cars owned–our lives are, to a great extent, measured, planned, and organized according to mathematical principles.

In both its applied and theoretical forms, mathematics is one of the oldest forms of scientific inquiry. It is crucially important to logic, planning, and the prevention of social chaos. This classical subject of thought, experimentation, and exploration is continuously updated as technology advances and breaks through new barriers. As such, computer science, economics, and engineering all hinge on the talents of mathematicians.

Preparing for a Program in Math and Statistics

Firstly, make the most of science, math and computer courses offered by your high school. Take every algebra, geometry, trigonometry, physics and calculus class available.

In addition, consider your personal interests. Ask yourself why you are drawn to studying math and statistics. Think about your career hopes and personal goals to determine if pursuing your interest in mathematics is likely to lead to a happy and productive career. Many students are drawn to this degree program because they genuinely want to study and apply the principles of mathematics to the practical world.

Third, research each of the math and statistics schools you’re interested in attending. Make it a point to speak with admissions counselors at each school and to research available financial aid and other resources, such as tutoring, career counseling or transfer agreements.

Types of Math and Statistics Degrees

Math and statistics degree programs cover a lot of ground, so students might choose to obtain broad-based, fundamental training, or specialize in a particular field, such as algebra, theoretical mathematics, or statistical modeling. Math and science degree programs may be designed for newcomers to the field, or for professionals who want to improve their career prospects with additional study.

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Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Mathematics and Statistics

Bachelor’s degrees are typically the minimum requirement for most professional careers. Some math and statistics degree programs focus on a specific segment of the field, and allow students to develop an expertise in the applications and techniques associated with that area. Others are more general in nature, building a broad overall foundation in core concepts. Both types of programs should cover general mathematical principles, science concepts, computers, and technology.

Students should expect a bachelor’s degree program to take approximately eight semesters of study. BS programs are thorough, intense, and rigorous. They include general education courses in the humanities, liberal arts and social sciences, so that math students are well-rounded and learn important skills in writing, critical thinking and communication. This latter is extremely important in the professional world; mathematicians and statisticians must often be able to explain their ideas to managers, students, teachers and policymakers.

What Can You Do With a College Degree in Math and Statistics?

Math and statistics skills are useful in a wide range of occupations, including business, physics, accounting, drafting and design, finance, operations research, engineering and even healthcare. Any research field, in particular, needs the assistance of qualified statisticians. Below are a few of the most common careers pursued by math & statistics grads:

Actuary

An actuary helps businesses assess the risk of certain events or courses of action. They formulate policies and procedures to minimize the financial costs of such risks. Actuaries primarily work in the insurance industry, analyzing data and approximating the likelihood of death, illness, disability, injury, or loss of property. Their assessment is used to determine whether or not an individual is a good candidate for insurance coverage. Additionally, actuaries may also find employment in the financial sector. The skills of an actuary can help individuals determine how much money to invest in order to produce a desired result. Most actuaries have bachelor’s degrees in math or a related subject area.

Mathematician

Simply, a mathematician’s work involves using the principles and techniques of advanced mathematics to solve various types of problems. Theoretical mathematicians seek to develop new theories and to uncover relationships between existing principles. Commonly, theoretical mathematicians work as university professors, teaching students and conducting research. Applied mathematicians use mathematical principles, models, and techniques to solve practical problems of economics, engineering and science. In almost all cases, earning a doctorate is necessary for these high-concept mathematician positions.

Statistician

Applying the principles of math to the collection, analysis and utility of numerical information, statisticians design surveys, interpret information, and process data. Statistical work is imperative for many medical, governmental, political, and social decisions. A statistician employed by the government might develop a survey to measure population growth, consumer prices, or unemployment. Or, he might work for a scientific, environmental, or agricultural agency, determining the amount of pesticides found in drinking water, or calculating the number of people with a particular medical condition in a certain area. Additionally, statisticians work for defense agencies and test the accuracy of new military weaponry and/or predict the effectiveness of defense strategies. Individuals hoping to enjoy a career in statistics should plan to obtain at least a master’s degree in mathematics.

Math Teacher

Math teachers instruct and present mathematical theories, techniques, problem solving steps, and examples. The majority of educators are employed by schools, but some also work as private tutors. Teachers must not only be knowledgeable about math, but must also have strong communication skills and a desire to work with students. Math teachers must obtain a bachelor’s degree and a state-approved teaching certification.

Math and Statistics Certification, Licensure, and Associations

Certification and licensure requirements vary widely by field. For example, if a graduate decides to work in engineering, he is required to obtain certification specific to his trade. If he decides to work as a theoretical mathematician, however, certification is not required. Instead, he should focus on earning more academic training and expertise.

Students who venture into the field of math education need to obtain teaching credentials and proper certification. Generally, the prerequisites necessary to teach are determined by local or state governing bodies. For the most accurate information, it is best to check with your state’s Department of Education.

Math and Statistics Professional Organizations and Associations

Whether or not certification or licensing is required, potential students should note that it is usually a good idea to involve oneself with available math and statistics associations and organizations. Joining a professional mathematical organization presents opportunities to network, discuss new innovations, and update skills and knowledge.

• American Mathematical Society
• American Statistical Organization
• Association for Women in Mathematics
• Consortium for Mathematics and its Applications
• Mathematical Association of America Online
• National Council of Teacher of Mathematics
• Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics