Department of Mathematics

Career in Mathematics

Mathematical experts are in demand across all kinds of industries the world over. Study math and you’ll have access to career opportunities in sectors you may never have even considered, including specialized fields such as law or medicine. However, a large number of math careers are based within business or science and technology-related sectors.

Accountancy and finance

A career in accountancy offers a range of options for maths graduates across many different industries. Accountancy jobs include roles such as auditor, tax accountant, forensic accountant, management accountant and corporate advisor.

Banking

Opportunities in banking range from the world of retail banking to corporate investment banking. Both arenas deal with financial assessment – public and private – with opportunities to specialize in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, bonds and shares, privatization, lending and IPOs (initial public offerings).

Actuaries

Actuaries evaluate financial risk in order to manage and advise clients. Combining risk analysis skills with in-depth knowledge of economics and business, actuaries ensure sound investments are made and commercial/business goals fulfilled. Most new actuaries start out working within pensions and insurance, a relatively low-risk area.

Statistics

Statisticians are specialists in statistics –the collation, analysis, interpretation and presentation of statistics and quantitative data. Statisticians’ skills are required in numerous industries, ranging from healthcare to government and from finance to sport.

Academic and Research

Careers in academics and research are very popular among mathematics students. This route may appeal to those who want the challenge of driving forward the next series of discoveries, theories and applications of the field.

Meteorology

Meteorology is more than just presenting the weather. The role involves studying weather conditions using data collected from weather stations, radar, remote sensors and satellite images across the globe, in order to interpret causes and to produce forecasts. You’ll need excellent IT skills, as well as strong skills in analyzing and interpreting complex mathematical data.

Teaching

In addition to academic roles with a research focus, many rewarding math careers can be found in teaching. Numeracy is always a high priority within primary and secondary education systems, making highly numerate graduates with an interest in teaching highly sought-after.