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Careers are changing in a big way. We’re not only in the midst of a volatile economy and a rapidly evolving social landscape—as if that weren’t enough—we’re also looking at disrupted weather and climate patterns. What does it all mean for mathematics-focused careers?

In short, Applied Mathematics Degrees have never been more timely or more useful. Math grads work in a multitude of challenged and rapidly adapting industries. Grads who pursue Applied Math careers are sought-after professionals who help organizations understand change, calculate risks, and make informed decisions.

If you’re great with numbers and analysis, you could be one of them. And if you’re keen to know how your talent might guide you to one of several Applied Math careers where you can thrive, keep these 5 great options in mind!

1. Help Businesses Excel by Becoming an Actuary

You might wonder, what can I do with applied math career training? Simple: Your educational journey could take you into the sphere of actuarial science.

What is actuarial science? It’s the quantification of risk—using math, probability techniques, and statistics. If you have always loved math, it’s a field you might want to know more about.

First and foremost, the actuarial field is a useful area. A professional Actuary can calculate the reasonable and appropriate amounts of money, material resources, or work hours needed to make sure organizations become resilient in the face of an uncertain future.

Here are the steps along the timeline to a career in the actuarial field:

  • Start with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant area. An Applied Mathematics Degree is perfect. Why not an Actuarial Science degree? Pick a degree that’s too narrow, and you could be limiting your career trajectory. Applied Math fits the actuarial career path but also lets you explore so much more.
  • Expect to pass a series of highly challenging actuarial exams in the future. Learning is constant in this profession.
  • Apply to internships or basic actuarial positions. You’ll want to steadily gain experience while you’re working on your exam qualifications.
  • Obtain the necessary technical skills. Actuarial science relies on cutting-edge enterprise software, computer programming languages, team collaboration, and audio-visual software.

Should you commit to becoming an Actuary, you might be working in an industry that depends on analyses of costs and risks. Actuaries use statistical methods to predict the likelihood of a specific events occurring in various settings and when they are most likely to unfold. They can also become consultants on the probable economic impact of those events. Insurance companies famously rely on actuarial science professionals, as they apply the results of actuarial science to determine the risks of accidents and damage to houses and vehicles, and set premiums. In short, actuarial science is a big draw for mathematically inclined grads looking to apply their degrees in careers that matter.

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2. In a Data-Driven Society, Consider a Career in Data Analytics

Your educational journey could also take you into the sphere of data analytics, where you’ll be detecting social trends or deriving financial insights from data. The Data Analyst works with managers, information technology specialists, and data scientists. Today’s Data Analysts draw from a range of skills:

  • Many are now working with artificial intelligence.
  • They can connect databases and apply querying languages to glean vital information.
  • They’re tech-savvy. From SQL databases to Google Analytics to Github, they know their stuff.

Data analysis is a versatile field. Needed in every sector, analysts can determine the range of outcomes in human, natural, or economic activities:

  • Sports Data Analysis enables sportscasters to predict and discuss team and player performance.
  • Environmental Data Analysts examine information from our surroundings and can be indispensable to climate policymakers.
  • Data Analysts work in finance, healthcare, manufacturing, professional services, information technology, fintech, and retail, too.

Good Data Analysts are able to present their findings understandably to lay people. They’re familiar with programming languages, and able to perform valuable work with data visualization tools.

3. In a World Focused on Data and Outcomes, Consider Becoming a Statistical Analyst

If you’re interested in data analysis, another path to consider is statistical analysis. In this field, a creative and analytical spirit sets the best apart. Statistical analysis is one of the most enjoyable fields a mathematician can explore, involving the understanding and design of statistical models using quantitative data.

In real-world applications, statistical analysis informs vital decisions, from scientific analysis in research to marketing decisions by large corporations. A Statistical Analyst may be drawn to careers with Applied Math degree needs, including marketing, research and development, healthcare and pharmaceutical research and marketing, city planning, civics and government, engineering and education. Their work improves outcomes in a variety of other sectors, too, from manufacturing to marketing.

In the pharma space, some professionals become clinical data managers who work with information gleaned from clinical research trials—performing assessments of drug reactions and treatment complications.

Becoming a Statistical Analyst is a long-term yet rewarding process. And you can take the first step today with Post University. We’re ready to help.

4. Improve Industries With a Career as an Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts can change the course of business. They can be found in all aspects of business management: logistics, resource allocation, production schedule development, and supply chain management. There are currently a healthy range of job opportunities in operations research analysis. According to data supplied by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the level of job growth will remain “much faster than average” through 2028.

One of the choices in this career path is logistics analysis. Sometimes called logisticians, today’s Logistics Analysts can research, develop, and implement the full lifecycle of a manufacturing process or the marketing of a product. Logistics Analysts are involved in every phase of product success, from purchase and distribution to marketing to resource clearance. The work can be fast-paced and this appeals greatly to Applied Math experts who love challenges. The Bureau of Labor Statistics observes job growth in this field, driven by the globalization of our economy, which relies on complex systems for the international transportation of goods.

Majoring in Applied Mathematics with an eye to an Operations Research Analyst’s career is challenging. Fortunately, Post University has excellent educators available to help when you need it. And the results are worth the effort because Applied Math is one of the most marketable skill sets in today’s volatile economy. Organizations are pressed to streamline their operations and increase efficiency, and the expertise of an Operations Research Analyst can inform these organizational goals and methods.

5. Join the Exciting World of Finance as a Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst is forever in demand for one clear reason. Companies and people always need guidance in making good investment decisions. So, when you ask “What can I do with applied math career training?” we’re here to tell you your hard work as an Applied Math student could lead to a rewarding career in one of the most attractive sectors of all: spotting trends and developing forecasts in the world of stocks and bonds.

Analysts work in fund management and at large banks. There are various Applied Mathematics careers and job roles in finance. For just a few examples:

  • Professionals in this field use data to perform risk assessments and suggest that firms and individuals buy, sell, or hold their shares in a company.
  • Analysts review corporate filings and public records and glean vital information on earnings calls.
  • Quantitative Analysts (“quants”) work with the most mathematically intense elements of financial analysis.
  • Top analysts manage assets for major investors and even decide to buy and sell corporations.

Ready to explore more professional opportunities, and decide which of several Applied Mathematics careers is best for you?

Applied Math Grads Are in Demand—and the Salary Outlook Is Holding Strong

All of the Applied Math careers we’ve reviewed above are benefiting from a strong job outlook for data-intensive fields. The payoff for entering the rigorous field of Applied Mathematics is a set of solid career choices and financial independence. The average salary commanded by an entry-level Data Analyst is above $80,000, with Senior Data Analysts earning, on average, more than $100,000.

Find out which role excites you, and brings out your personal talents. We’re here for you as you make decisions on how best to navigate those forks in the road. And we’re ready to get you started on the right path today. Whether you experience Post University’s courses online or attend them in person at our Waterbury, Connecticut campus, you’ll benefit from the personal approach to education we consider essential to starting a career on the right foot.

We know you’ll have questions about how to get ready to pursue your degree and what Post University can offer you! Our admissions counselors can speak with you and provide guidance that works. To talk with us, call 800.582.8250 or click “Request Info” at the top of this page.

Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s program and its outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.