For professional mathematicians, their job is more complex than just putting a series of numbers in a calculator. Mathematicians solve business related problems in relationship with the economy, use algorithms, which are various series of rules in calculations, and apply their mathematical skills to engineering, science, and physics. Mathematicians are always in competition with each other, each trying to develop the next big theory, prove that theory, show us how it works, and tell us why we should all care. For many mathematicians the success or failure of their entire careers is based on one mathematical equation or theory.
There are two types of mathematicians: applied mathematicians and theoretical mathematicians. The two categories of mathematicians are different from each other in some ways, yet they also crossover to one another in other ways. This makes it difficult to separate them completely. Absolute definitions are difficult to come by when it comes to different types of mathematics because sometimes they overlap. Math related fields use mathematics in different ways. Applied mathematics can be applied to real life situations in engineering, business, and social sciences. Applied mathematics uses theories and techniques to solve the problems related to these fields. Theoretical mathematics develops, creates, analyzes, and formulates new equations, theories, and techniques so that these new principles can be applied in problem solving.
Those who want to work in a field related to mathematics should obtain a bachelor's or master's degree in mathematics. While it is great to have the knowledge of mathematics, what is the point of having this kind of knowledge if one can't apply it to earn a living? Since mathematics covers a broad range and is involved in many different types of careers, an individual who has an extensive knowledge of mathematics has the ability to enter a wide range of occupations such as banking, engineering, chemistry, aerospace, and industrial management.
In the banking industry the mathematicians can work as credit analysts, personal financial advisors, financial managers, accountants, loan officers, bank examiners, treasurers, investment researchers, securities brokers, and trust officers. Since mathematicians must have a great understanding of math in general, this opens the doors for mathematicians to work in different types of banks such as commercial, Federal Reserve, credit unions, and saving and loan banks. Commercial banks make up the majority of the banks, with over 72% of the total number of banks. This is important because with so many commercial banks, odds are, this is where those interested will find employment.
Mathematics is a very complex field with principles being developed and shot down seemingly on a daily basis. Our entire world is based on the use of mathematics enabling us to create new inventions. By applying these different mathematical theories we can help create a better society in general. Mathematics is the gateway to many career choices. Personal interest obviously plays a major role in what type of mathematician career one might choose. Mathematicians' employment forecast will depend on the field they are in.
Being a mathematician requires no physical labor so it is ideal for those who wish to work the mind and not the body. Some people can handle the constant number crunching while others can't. Mathematicians can earn a very good living wage, ranging from $63,000-$135,000 per year. Maybe we should have all studied harder in math class when we were younger. These types of mathematician jobs require analytical skills, research, accurate details, and interpretation of data, which will translate into higher than average earnings. The more a person learns, the more he/she earns, correct?
The number of mathematicians is expected to increase over the next decade. The advanced technologies will require mathematicians to make the transition to software developers and engineers. There are currently around 3,000 mathematicians and that number is expected to increase by 3,000 over the next few years. Many financial institutions such as investment firms look to mathematicians to analyze potential fluctuations. While no one can predict the financial future, those who are well educated in mathematics and apply these skills in finance, can give a sense of what the future may bring to the economic market. This will allow those who invest to be prepared for the future.
There are a variety of organizations related to mathematics such as the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, American Mathematical Society, Association for Women in Mathematics, and Mathematical Association of America.
