Mathematics and Statistics

Why Study Mathematics and Statistics?

For ages, mathematicians have made invisible and unsung contributions to advancements in science and technology. In recent years, mathematicians have become more numerous, and more visible in the workforce. More and more jobs require direct use of mathematics, and an increasing number of job titles are reflecting this. Prospects for employment are very good. A 2009 study in the US showed that the top three best jobs in terms of income and other factors were careers suited for math majors.

A Bachelor’s degree in mathematics is excellent preparation for diverse fields in the sciences, as well as in mathematics and statistics. Demand for scientists, engineers and technicians is projected to increase by 36 per cent and the demand for mathematical scientists by 29 per cent. The dominant criteria for new jobs are higher skills and adaptability– in short, more education, especially in mathematics.

Mathematics Option

The mathematics major degree is designed to prepare students for careers in industry, government or education. Mathematics students are urged to obtain some expertise in an area of application such as the physical sciences, computer science, engineering or business.

See the Undergraduate Calendar for details.

Statistics Option

The statistics major degree is designed to prepare students for careers in industry or government as well as to provide a background for graduate study. Statistics students are urged to obtain some expertise in an area of applications such as the physical sciences, forestry, or computer science.

See the Undergraduate Calendar for details.

What Can You Be With A Bachelor of Science in Mathematics?

• Risk Analyst
• Actuarial Analyst
• Staff Systems Analyst
• Consultant
• Manager/Administrator
• Management Consultant
• Executive
• Entrepreneur

Search for Careers for more career possibilities.

With additional education/training…

• Professor
• Astronaut
• Teacher
• Accountant
• Biostatistician
• Budget Analyst
• Computer Engineer
• Software Analyst
• Software Engineer
• Environmental Scientist
• Research Scientist

Where Can You Work?

Mathematicians have an opportunity to make a lasting contribution to society in fields as diverse as...

• Agriculture
• Astronomy
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Cryptography
• Demography
• Ecology
• Economics
• Education
• Engineering
• Epidemiology
• Finance
• Genetics
• Government
• Health Science
• Insurance/Actuarial Science
• Law

What Skills Can You Develop?

While the academic knowledge you acquire through your BSc degree may be directly applicable to some careers, the general skills you gain with a Mathematics degree are the most valuable to employers. These skills include

• Communication skills – written, oral, visual, electronic
• Information management – locating, gathering, and organizing information using appropriate technology and information systems
• Research skills – accessing, analyzing and applying knowledge
• Problem solving – using critical thinking skills to evaluate and solve problems; being creative and innovative in identifying solutions
• Teamwork – ability to work effectively within a group; demonstrating the ability to lead or support the group while monitoring the success of a project and identifying ways to improve it
• Personal management – ability to work effectively and independently under deadlines; plan, design and execute projects from start to finish, with well-defined objectives and outcomes
• Ethics and values – ability to take into consideration the costs, benefits, and impact of projects on the individuals involved and society in general.

Professional Associations

Professional associations can be a great way to meet, learn from and network with professionals in your field of interest. Some associations offer student memberships, often at a reduced rate. Below is a sample of professional associations you can explore.

• Canadian Mathematical Society
• Statistical Society of Canada
• Canadian Applied and Industrial Mathematics Society
• Atlantic Provinces Council on the Sciences
• Atlantic Association for Research in the Mathematical Sciences
• National Science & Engineering Research Council of Canada
• American Mathematics Society
• The Consortium for Mathematics and its Applications
• Mathematical Association of America

Contact the Department

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