Mathematics degrees attended on campus, or studied on-line, may be combined with other subjects. On-line math degrees are particularly flexible for subject combination choices. Everyone who gains a mathematics degree will enhance their employment prospects, personal achievements, and choice of career. This article examines some of the most popular math degree choices.
Mathematics Degree
A straight mathematics degree can lead directly to careers in many professions, such as actuary, teacher, statistician, or computer programmer. These are all rewarding professions, much sought after, and several of these appear in popular "Top Ten Profession" lists regularly. The advantage of a straight math degree over the combined math degrees is that there is often a wider range or greater depth of study of pure math subjects like number theory, set theory, and complex analysis.
Mathematics and Statistics Degree
The rigor and intellectual challenge of the math degree can be supplemented with a statistics option. A math and statistics degree will include a greater level of statistical expertise. Probability is studied in more depth with a math and statistics degree. It is particularly useful for those who have decided on a long-term career as an actuary. Statisticians are sought after by many employers in market research and finance.
Mathematics and Computing Degree
The rigorous logic and thought processes that are used in mathematics have much in common with those used by computer programmers. There are many areas of overlap with these subjects, such as Boolean algebra and binary arithmetic, as well as set theory and group theory. It is common for holders of math and computing degrees to become full-time programmers straight after graduation, without any extra "conversion" courses necessary.
Mathematics and Teaching / Learning Degree
Mathematics teachers are sought after at all levels, from first school right through to post-graduate levels. It is also, however, an excellent combination for those who want to become math or statistical consultants, where teaching adults often forms a large part of the job description. Another advantage with this combination of subjects is that a formal teaching qualification is achieved by the math graduate, allowing him / her to become a qualified teacher at the appropriate level.
Mathematics and Business / Economics Degree
Math and business degrees combine mathematical expertise with leadership, accounting, sales and marketing etc. This is a particularly useful degree for those who wish to become managers in business. Leadership skills combined with logic and numeracy are much sought after. Proficiency in economic forecasting and econometrics requires a very high level of mathematical ability, and so this combination of subjects is often found in degree course offerings.
Math Degree Options Summary
Math degrees may be studied alone, or in combination with a wide range of other subjects. Many of the options allow direct entry into careers that are very rewarding, stimulating, as well as lucrative and secure. The short summary shown here is just one part of a huge list of options to the prospective math degree student, and there are many more options available.
Math Degree References
Open University (UK), Math Degree Prospectus Open.ac.uk
MIT (USA) Math Course list of subjects, Math.mit.edu
Martin Bell - Martin holds a B.Sc. degree in chemical engineering, and an M.Sc. degree in electronics and computing. He has spent more than 25 years ...
Join the Conversation