Job Oppurtunaties

 

Opportunities for mathematicians

Between one third and one half of all jobs requiring graduates are open to students of any discipline. Of course, mathematicians are eligible for these jobs. In addition, there are careers for which a degree in mathematics is either essential or a strong advantage. These fall into a number of general areas: 

          Scientific research, design and development

1. Large companies and government research establishments are actively involved in research and development. They employ mathematicians and statisticians, usually along with other scientists in interdisciplinary research teams. The problems being solved require a flexible approach and speedy solutions, the need being for ``best possible'' answers in the time available. Projects of this type require high mathematical skill, ability to analyse complex problems in order to formulate them mathematically and to use computers in their solution (a skill developed during mathematics degree courses), willingness to work to deadlines, and ability to communicate findings to others.
   The range of problems on which mathematicians are engaged is wide. We give a few examples. In the aircraft industry, there is work on aerodynamical design, providing theoretical results which predict or complement those from (for example) experimental wind tunnels. In pollution control, mathematicians would develop ``models'' (mathematical equations) predicting dispersal rates of chimney effluents under different meteorological conditions. In telecommunications, mathematicians may work on improved communications links, computer-recognition of handwriting and speech patterns, and distortion in digital transmission. 
2. Management services and computing
   The problems of coping with rapid changes in technology and market conditions in large and complex organisations make it essential for managers to call on specialist services. Management service specialists define and investigate problems systematically. The work is often mathematical, involving an area of mathematics known as Operational Research. It might involve designing a more efficient transportation programme for deliveries to a supermarket chain, or a stock control pattern for a car franchise holder. Computing is a major part of the work of most management services departments. Entrants are usually appointed as trainee programmers, but the work can be very varied, especially for employees of a company of management consultants. Their role is to set up mathematical models of the situations they are required to analyse, and to use computers in the solution of the problems, rather than just to write computer programs.
   Personal qualities are especially important - tact, understanding, ability to communicate - because in recommending action based on their work, mathematicians can face resistance to changing familiar methods and practices.
   
3. Financial work
   In recent years, up to half of all mathematics graduates have taken up a career in finance.
   
   • Accountancy
     Firms of chartered accountants - the main employers - do not normally specify degree disciplines of entrants. They are particularly keen though to recruit mathematics graduates, because of their numeracy skills and logical thought, and because they are normally very successful in the professional examinations (on average, more so than accountancy graduates!). So to become an accountant, you do not need to take a degree in accountancy. A mathematics degree allows many openings in accountancy, should you wish to follow them after graduation, as well as all the other opportunities.
   • Actuarial work
     This has long been a popular field for mathematics graduates. The work involves the application of probability and statistics to financial affairs such as life assurance, pensions and social security, so a degree involving a substantial proportion of these subjects is desirable. Traineeships occur with life assurance companies and insurance companies as well as with actuarial consultants. Career and salary prospects for those with managerial and commercial potential are excellent.
   • Other openings in finance
     There are some opportunities in banking, particularly with the head offices of major banks, or with merchant banks. Mathematicians have frequently been successful candidates for the Tax Inspectorate.
4. Statistical work
   We have already discussed one aspect of work undertaken by statisticians - the work of an actuary. In addition, statistical work is carried out in many organisations - the Civil Service (economics and agriculture in particular), research establishments, large industrial firms and commercial concerns (e.g. market research agencies). The work is varied, depending on the activities of the employer. In the Civil Service and in research establishments (government and industrial), statisticians work on design and analysis of experimental projects. In industry, the work may involve quality control, where statisticians collaborate in designing procedures for testing and in assessing the results of the tests. Statisticians employed by market research and advertising agencies will be involved in survey design and evaluating responses.
   
   
   
   So, dear friends and dedali lovelies, studying mathematics offers us a variety of job opportunities! Therefore, take a chance and realize how mathematics can change your life ;) Good Luck! <3
   
   By Rashmika and Jannani