OVERVIEW

Careers in mathematics can be both lucrative and rewarding for people who have a knack for numbers. Careers in mathematics are not limited to teaching in schools or colleges anymore. People with a career in mathematics conduct research, or use Mathematical modelling and frameworks to solve business problems or help an individual make critical investment decisions which can be useful throughout one’s life.investments in life insurance or pension schemes.

WHAT DOES A PERSON DO WITH A MATHEMATICS DEGREE?

COMPANIES WHICH HIRE MATHS GRADS/POSTGRADS

In addition to these, many Mathematics graduates pursue research in government bodies like ISRO, DRDO, CSIR etc. after the completion of their post grad. Also, many go on to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD) from both Indian as well as renowned foreign universities and take teaching or research roles in universities.

KEY QUALITIES REQUIRED

• Decision-making skills: Since other team members rely on your ability to understand complex information, you must have strong decision-making skills which will allow you to be trustworthy.
• Systems analysis skills: Understand how the fast-changing worlds of science, technology, and finance can influence the work you’re doing and the organizations or individuals you’re trying to help.
• Analytical Ability: Ability to visualize and simplify complex Mathematical models.

FAMOUS MATHEMATICIANS

John Nash

Subject of the movie “A beautiful mind”, Received Nobel Prize in 1994 Princeton University

Shakuntala Devi

Popularly known as the “human computer”, Guinness Book of World Records, Author of children's books on mathematics, puzzles Did not undergo formal schooling!

Manjul Bhargav

Winner of Field Medal in 2014, which is dubbed as the “Nobel Prize” in Mathematics Harvard University, Princeton University

HOW TO PURSUE A CAREER IN MATHEMATICS

Step 1: Choose Science with Mathematics after 10th (PCM) and prepare for Competitive Entrance Exams
Many Universities like Delhi University, Jadavpur University etc admit students on the basis of marks in Class 12th. Hence, securing more than 80% marks in 12th board is absolutely essential to secure a seat in a reputed university.

A few Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) also offer degrees in Mathematics or Mathematics and Computing. Admission to these programs is also through JEE Advanced.
For more details about Examination Pattern, Eligibility, Cutoffs and Number of seats for these Entrance Exams, refer to the article on Entrance Exams in Appendix.

Step 2 : Complete an undergraduate degree in Mathematics
Courses in an undergraduate degree in Mathematics include algebra, calculus, probability theory, statistics and analysis. Many colleges also include courses in programming and humanities. In their first year, students sometimes also do common courses with other undergraduate students of Physics and Chemistry. In their final year, students do elective courses. An undergraduate degree in Mathematics prepare students to pursue an advanced degree (M.Sc, PhD) or take an entry level job in data analysis. Students can also pursue B.Ed after under graduation to be eligible for applying as secondary school teachers.

Step 3: Complete an advanced degree in Mathematics
Most careers in Mathematics require at least a Masters in Mathematics. Certain careers like University Professor, Economist, Computer and Information Research Scientist requires a doctoral degree (PhD). If you are sure that you want to eventually go for a career in Mathematics, pursuing an Integrated programs saves your time and effort in preparing and applying separately for Masters degree. However, if you’ve completed B.Sc in Mathematics, you can take JAM (Joint Admission Test for MSc.) for admission to Masters programs at IITs. Indian Statistical Institutes, Chennai Mathematical Institute also have their separate entrance exams for admission in M.Sc and PhD programs. Top global universities for pursuing higher studies in Mathematics are:

EXPLORE THE FIELD

For Class 11 and 12

Apply for Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana

For Class 11 and 12

See how data is used to solve problems

For Class 11 and 12

Do an activity to understand how complex Mathematics is used to secure your Facebook password & Whatsapp messages

For Class 10 and younger

Apply for Mathematics Olympiads from RMO to INMO - 11th students also eligible

For Class 10 and younger

Practice interactive simulations on PhET interactive simulations project

For Class 10 and younger

Take an advanced mathematics class at Art of Problem Solving website

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