Mathematics is a core subject to learn all over the world. Further study and careers in maths teach skills in critical thinking, problem solving and decision making, which are abilities highly valued by employers across all sectors. There are a massive amount of careers related to maths, read on to find out what they are, why you should work in maths, what skills you need to master and which degrees can help a mathematician’s career.
- Why work in maths?
- What careers are available in maths?
- What skills are needed to work in maths?
- What degrees help with a career in maths?
Why work in maths?
Be a problem solver
Maths related careers are all about problem solving. The skills built whilst working on mathematical functions quickly develop your problem solving abilities, a skill not only greatly valued by employers but also very helpful in life outside of work too.
The demand for mathematics is increasing
The need for mathematically qualified people is on the increase, meaning that if you’re looking to get into a career in maths, you are in a good position long term.
You can be creative
A mathematics related career will often require creative thinking. Mathematicians are often given complex problems and asked to solve them, and the nature of this requires them to think creatively to find a solution.
What careers are available in maths?
There are a number of paths in maths that allow graduates to pursue careers that closely relate to their studies. Others use their maths degree as a bridge to a different career, due to the number of transferrable skills they have.
Careers using maths
Finance and accountancy roles
People in these roles help businesses look after their money and use it in the most effective way. This can include preparing and recording accounts, or looking after banking, credit, and investment services.
Actuary work
People in this role evaluate complex risks and assess the potential financial consequences. They might work for a bank or insurance company, analysing statistical data, to calculate risk and probability for companies.
Investment manager
Investment managers, sometimes known as fund or asset managers, help wealthy individuals or organisations to invest their money wisely, calculating risk and advising on how people can make the most money in return.
Investment banker
Similar to the role of an investment manager, an investment banker is responsible for a sum of money and is tasked with buying and selling on the financial markets to make a profit.
Retail banker
A retail banker will help individuals manage their money. Retail bankers work in high street or private banks, providing financial services such as opening and setting up savings accounts, banking cash and helping people apply for loans, mortgages, etc.
Computer programming roles
Computer programmers write, modify, and test code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly. Some computer programming roles are very mathematics heavy, making this a popular route for maths graduates.
Statistician
Statisticians work for large organisations or local authorities, working to design surveys, or opinion polls to collect data. Statisticians then develop mathematical models to analyse and interpret data and communicate their findings to the appropriate parties.
Academic mathematician
Academic mathematicians usually work at a university. Their job is to expand knowledge by developing new theories. Academic mathematicians also create models to resolve practical problems in fields such as business, government, engineering and the sciences.
Maths teacher
Teaching in a primary or secondary school as a maths specialist, teachers teach mathematical concepts and formulas to students from primary school, through to GCSE and A-Level. They explain concepts, develop material for teaching, organise activities, assign and grade homework and prepare students for exams. Find out more about careers in education.
Related career paths with a maths degree
What skills are needed to work in maths?
All of the job roles listed above will require a strong mathematical ability, however each will require certain specialisms that others won’t. If you are interested in applying for a job in a specific area, we would suggest finding adverts for roles you are interested in and looking at the job description and person specification. Here you can identify the skills and experience you already have and where you need to improve to meet the essential criteria for that role.
With that in mind, here are some transferrable skills that would be beneficial to any role related to mathematics:
- Problem solving skills
- Perseverance
- Strong analytical skills
- Communication skills
- Timekeeping skills
What degrees help with a career in maths?
Most job roles in mathematics require a bachelor’s degree in a maths related subject. We would recommend checking the descriptions of the jobs you are hoping to do. From here you can see if a degree is required. The most common mathematics degrees are:
- Mathematics
- Mathematics and statistics
- Economics and mathematical sciences
- Computing and mathematics
- Data science
- Engineering
Is maths the career path for you? Explore other industries and discover the opportunities available in different sectors. Find and apply for roles on the Unitemps website.
Last updated on 3 May 2023
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