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Mathematics Outcomes & Career Options

The department provides a curriculum in mathematics as a cultural study for all liberal arts students, as a basic tool for the scientist, and as a preparation for graduate study and teaching. Many mathematics majors may find jobs in teaching, statistics, actuarial work, computer science, applied mathematics, systems analysis, operations, research analysis, economics, engineering, physical science, finance, and genetics.

Educational Qualifications

Statisticians typically need a master’s degree in statistics, mathematics, or survey methodology. However, a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for some entry-level jobs. Research and academic jobs generally require a Ph.D.

For jobs with the federal government, candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or significant coursework in mathematics. In private industry, mathematicians typically need an advanced degree, either a master’s degree or a doctorate.

Job Outlook

Employment of mathematicians is projected to grow 21 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of statisticians is projected to grow 34 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Entering Salary

The median annual wage for mathematicians was $111,110 in May 2015. The median annual wage for statisticians was $80,110 in May 2015.
 The median annual wage for mathematicians was $111,110 in May 2015. The median annual wage for statisticians was $80,110 in May 2015.
The median annual wage for computer programmers was $79,530 in May 2015. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $44,450, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $130,800. The median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $77,810 in May 2015.The lowest 10 percent earned less than $47,460, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $124,090.

Sources:

Academic program information adapted from:
La Sierra University. (2016-2017). Undergraduate Academic Bulletin. Retrieved from http://www.lasierra.edu/bulletinCareer information adapted from:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Film and Video Editors and Camera Operators, on the Internet at  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/film-and-video-editors-and-camera-operators.htm (visited May 20, 2016).Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm (visited October 13, 2016).Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Mathematicians, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/mathematicians-and-statisticians.htm (visited October 13, 2016).

Degree Programs

Biomathematics
Mathematics

Contact and Location

math@lasierra.edu
(951) 785-2197
Price Science Complex, Room 247

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