Mathematician

Print

Work Tasks

• Develop new math theories to solve economic, scientific, engineering, and business problems
• Solve real life problems by using math
• Look at relationships between numbers, make models, and analyze large amounts of data
• Use computers to solve complex math problems
• Work for the government, schools, computer firms, engineering firms, banks, colleges, insurance firms, and aircraft, auto, and drug manufacturers, etc.
• Use math principles, statistics, charts, tables, graphs, scientific reports, calculators, computers, and mathematical software

Salary, Size & Growth

• $78,000 average per year ($37.50 per hour)
• A small occupation (2,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.2% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A master's degree in math
• Employers Prefer: A Ph.D. degree in math
• Skills/Courses: College courses include physics, computer science, differential equations, linear and abstract algebra, probability theory and statistics, mathematical analysis, numerical analysis, topology, discreet math, and mathematical logic.