Mathematicians use theory, computational techniques, algorithms and computer technology to solve problems in various fields, including basic sciences, engineering, computer science, economics, business, finance, and social sciences. The study of mathematics is traditionally divided into pure (theoretical) mathematics, which involves discovering new mathematical principles and relationships, and applied mathematics, which develops mathematical techniques for solving practical problems. Statistics is a sub-field of applied mathematics that focuses on data analysis.
Advances in technology have led to an increased demand for workers with knowledge of mathematics. Math graduates work in a broad range of positions in government, education, and industry. Bachelor graduates work in entry-level jobs in government, as software developers and programmers (with computer science experience), as actuarial analysts (with actuarial concentration), as budget and financial analysts, as secondary teachers (licensure required), and other areas. A master's degree in math/statistics or a related field is required for research associates, statisticians, and operations research specialists, whose work involves making decisions in managing money, materials, inventory, scheduling, pricing, facilities, people, and other issues that various organizations face. A doctoral (Ph.D.) degree is required for high-level research positions in industry, government and medical facilities, in which math modeling or statistics is needed for solving complex problems. A Ph.D. is often required for university faculty positions, which involve teaching, and conducting and directing research. Mathematics graduates work as: Actuary, Cryptographer, Data Scientist, Investment Analyst, Market Researcher, Mathematician, Operation Research Analyst, Numerical Analyst, Professor, Secondary Mathematics Teacher, Software Engineer, Statistician.
