How to Become a Mathematician

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Mathematics is one the oldest and most important sciences. The whole world is filled with mathematics from clocks to bank accounts. Experts in mathematics called mathematicians seek and describe mathematical patterns for a variety of reasons.

What does a mathematician do?

Mathematicians solve business, economic, engineering, physics, and scientific problems by using and applying mathematical theory, algorithms, computational techniques, and computer technology. They start with a set of basic principles and develop systems to solve problems. They often use computers to analyst relationships among concepts and to solve complex issues by creating models with different solutions.

Mathematicians are either classified as a theoretical or applied mathematician even those these two categories often overlap. Theoretical mathematicians improve knowledge in mathematics by developing new principles and identifying new relationships between existing mathematical principles. They strive to advance the basic knowledge of mathematics without taking principle uses into consideration. Applied mathematicians use methods and theories to create and solve practical problems in business, engineering, government, and the life, physical, and social sciences. They also try to draw conclusions about the world such as the best way to schedule airline routes between destinations and the safety and effects of new medication. Applied mathematicians begin with a practical problem, imagine the separate concepts, and reduce the concepts into mathematical variables.

What kind of training does a mathematician need?

Mathematicians typically have a doctorate degree in mathematics. A bachelor or master degree may be sufficient for entry-level positions with the Federal Government. Mathematic education programs typically include coursework in linear and abstract algebra, calculus, mathematical analysis, probability theory, statistics, numerical analysis, discrete mathematics, topology, mathematical logic, and differential equations. Students also typically conduct research and specialize in a specific area of mathematics. Many mathematicians have double majors in mathematics and a related discipline such as computer science, economics, engineering, life science, or physical science to be competitive in the field.

What are the prospects for a career as a mathematician?

Employment of mathematicians is projected to grow as fast as average for all professions, increasing 10% from 2006 to 2016 (1). Technological advancements and the need for employees with specialized mathematical knowledge will drive job growth.

Job prospects are expected to be good with keen competition. Mathematicians with graduate or doctorate degrees and specialized mathematical knowledge will have the best prospects.

How much do mathematicians make?

As of September 2009, the middle 50% of mathematicians earned annual salaries between $46,413 and $58,468. The highest 10% earned annual salaries of more than $64,561 (2).

A career as a mathematician is a great choice for people with a strong interest in mathematics and for those who enjoy working with numbers on a daily basis. Mathematicians need to have good reasoning ability to recognize, evaluate, and apply basic principles to technical issues. Good communication skills, detail orientation, good problem solving skills, and a high level of intellectual talent are essential traits.

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