Are you a numbers nerd, a fractions fanatic, an overenthusiastic fan of linear algebra? Does long division bring you great joy? If so, here’s some more excitement for you. A math degree can be a profitable career step with big numbers.
Today’s job market needs math-minded professionals to fill a number of high-paying positions in lucrative industries such as finance, information technology, robotics, and engineering. Surprised? Not all math majors are teachers and accountants.
Let’s Talk Numbers
So what’s the earning potential for someone with a math degree? That all depends on what field you decide to pursue:
Computer Science/Information Technology
- Overview: Computer science and IT are two fields with endless potential and growth opportunity, and mathematicians are highly prized in both industries. Your precise thinking and problem-solving skills help to develop software products, computer systems, and other machines that help businesses grow and function more efficiently.
- Career Outlook: Employment of computer and information systems managers is “projected grow 18 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.”
- Salary: Computer programmers earned a mean annual wage of $76,010 in May 2011. Not bad! What’s more? If you double majored in computer science AND mathematics, you’ll have two skills sets that employers need. Information security analysts earned $81,670, another impressive salary report, if you wish to apply your math skills in the IT industry.
Engineering
- Overview: Engineering and math need each other. In order to build bridges, design roadways, and develop space stations, engineers must know how numbers relate to one another. The engineering industry is always on the lookout for math aficionados to fill positions in a number of subfields including civil engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering.
- Job Outlook: Employment of civil engineers is “expected to grow 19 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.”
- Salary: Here are just a few salary stats for engineers in a variety of concentrations…
Finance and Accounting
- Overview: Finance and accounting are two separate disciplines but are both vital components of the business world. Jobs for math majors in these fields are plentiful, and depending on your area of interest, you can work in financial planning, investments and stocks, real estate, insurance, and accounting.
- Job Outlook: Employment of financial analysts is expected to grow 23 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of accountants and auditors is “expected to grow 16 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.”
- Salary: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported some pretty impressive salaries for finance and accounting jobs. Take a look!
Popular Online Math Degrees
 C/I: Mathematics (MEd) |
Concordia University at Portland — The MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Mathematics from Concordia University at Portland is geared for students with a passion for quantitative analytics, statistics, and teaching. The online program requires the completion of 45 units and can be completed in two years. Admission criteria include your GPA, evidence of work experience, past quantitative coursework, and the GMAT exam. |
 Quantitative Analysis (MBA) |
Southern New Hampshire University — For those who wish to earn a specialized MBA, Southern New Hampshire University offers its tailored MBA in Quantitative Analysis. The program teaches students how to effectively understand data and apply that knowledge to business scenarios. |
Click to see even more online math programs.