School of Mathematics, Tel: +44 (0) 1509 22 2861

Undergraduate programmes: Careers
 
A degree in Mathematics opens the way to a wide variety of careers. Some areas of work specifically requiring mathematical knowledge are detailed below; but mathematics graduates are highly valued for their logical thinking and analytical skills in many other occupations, e.g. business management, accountancy, the police and armed services, the Civil Service and local authorities. For more examples of careers involving maths, go to www.mathscareers.org.uk.

Statistics

Statistical analysis is required in medicine, environmental monitoring, market research and many areas of government.

Engineering

Mathematical modelling is a vital design tool in civil, mechanical and chemical engineering. Models based on the equations of solid or fluid mechanics may be used to predict the physical behaviour of structures or machines, while the safety of complex systems may be analysed by means of reliability theory.

Science

Research in all the physical and biological sciences involves mathematical modelling and statistical analysis. Forecasting of the weather and many other environmental variables involves formulation and solution of equations describing how the system develops in time.

Finance and insurance

The financial sector is increasingly making use of mathematical expertise, for instance to forecast the performance of investments. In insurance and pensions, risks are calculated by actuaries who require a high level of mathematical skill.

Operational research

Many commercial and industrial organisations as well as Government use the mathematical tool of O.R. to optimise efficiency and performance.

Education

Mathematics is taught at every level, from primary schools to university. Graduates can take a one-year PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) to enter the teaching profession.

Further study and research

Graduates often enhance their mathematical skills by taking a Masters course in an area that they are particularly interested in. For a career in research, whether in pure mathematics or in some application, a PhD is the next step after graduation.
 
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