Mathematics Graduate Programs

Mathematics Graduate Programs and Curriculum

Mathematics graduate schools emphasize mathematical theory, technique, algorithms, and the latest in computer software to solve economic, business related, scientific, and engineering issues. Mathematics degrees used for state employment require state certification. Graduates without certification may become math teachers in primary or secondary schools.

In order to apply for admission to mathematics grad schools, students must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent coursework. Many programs require letters of recommendation and GRE scores.

Mathematics has two areas of study: theoretical and applied. The core curriculum addresses subjects such as:

• Differential equations
• Probability
• Numerical analysis
• Geometry
• Topology
• Number theory
• Logic
• Combinatorics
• Mathematical physics
• Mathematical biology

Mathematics Career Paths

Theoretical mathematiciansadvance mathematical knowledge by developing new principles and recognizing previously unknown relationships between existing principles of mathematics. Many theoretical mathematicians are employed as university faculty, dividing their time between teaching and conducting research.

Applied mathematiciansuse theories and techniques, such as mathematical modeling and computational methods, to formulate and solve practical problems in business, government, engineering, and the physical, life, and social sciences.

In private industry, candidates for mathematician jobs typically need a Ph.D., although there may be opportunities for those with a master's degree. Most of the positions designated for mathematicians are in research-and-development laboratories, as part of technical teams. Graduate degrees in mathematics lend themselves to positions such as statistician, physicist, economist, computer scientist, engineer, actuary, and operations research analyst. Industries populated by graduates of this program include military, political, financial or law enforcement.

Mathematics Future Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics expects employment in mathematics to grow 22 percent by 2018, much faster than the national average. Competitions for these jobs are steep. Ph.D. holders that possess experience in computer science and or engineering will have abundant employment opportunities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average annual income of $76,470 for mathematicians. The factors that may change this range include certification, years of experience, type of employer and location.

Data according to

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.