Starting a career as a mathematician enables you to use theories and principles of mathematics to solve challenges and conduct research. As a mathematician, you can pursue a variety of careers based on your interests and skills. Pursuing a career as a mathematician can be a good career choice if you are a problem solver who enjoys research.

A mathematician is someone who studies mathematics thoroughly and applies mathematical ideas to solving challenges. This career is useful in disciplines such as sciences, business, industry, commerce and technology. Generally, a career as a mathematician entails using a variety of mathematical tools to solve real-world issues in various fields.

In this piece, I will discuss the process needed to start a career as a mathematician.

How to Become a Mathematician

1. Obtain an O’level Certificate

   You need an O’level certificate if you want to pursue a career as a mathematician. You should have a minimum of credits in major science courses such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Additionally, should have a good foundation in mathematics. You can consider taking extra courses such as calculus or trigonometry. This will help you to navigate undergraduate courses and learning.

2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   You should apply to an accredited school and earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. This degree is usually made up of both theoretical and applied mathematics curricula. Additionally, you can study courses that can help you apply your mathematical knowledge. You can study courses such as computers, sociology and physics.

3. Gain a Master’s Degree

   You can consider pursuing a master’s degree. This will give you a high chance of getting better opportunities. Additionally, it will enable you to gain a higher knowledge in this field and help you build a speciality. You can choose to specialise in applied or theoretical mathematics while pursuing a master’s degree.

4. Earn a Doctorate Degree

   Some career paths may require you to have a doctorate as a mathematician. Careers such as lecturing would require that you earn a doctorate.

5. Build Computer Skills

   This career path requires you to be proficient in computers and computer programs. You should be proficient in software such as R, SAS, and MATLAB. You will frequently utilise these programs to develop models, test hypotheses and share your findings. Additionally, you can learn these programs through online lessons or by taking additional courses while pursuing your degree.

6. Seek Internships

   After studying, you should consider earning opportunities that will give you good experiences. You can consider starting with an internship. Internships are an excellent opportunity to try out a career while also gaining valuable experience. Additionally, it will enable you to have access to professionals in the field who can serve as a guide in your career journey.

7. Network

   You should network and connect with colleagues and professionals in this field. This can give you a chance to find career opportunities. Additionally, it can enable you to have access to opportunities that can lead to your career advancement.

Career Paths You Can Pursue as a Mathematician

1. Teaching: As a mathematician, you can teach mathematics in secondary schools and universities. However, you may need to obtain an additional license to teach in a secondary school and you need a doctorate to teach in a university.
2. Finance: You can apply your knowledge in the finance industry as a mathematician. You can have careers such as business analysts, actuaries and bankers. This can be a good career choice if you enjoy the practical application of mathematics.
3. Accounting: You can also pursue an accounting career as a mathematician. This career also allows you to apply your mathematical knowledge to financial issues. However, this career will require you to obtain an additional certification in accounting.
4. Statistics: You can also become a statistician with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. You can apply your knowledge to industries such as healthcare, government, education and finance. In this field, you can work as a data analyst, statistician or data scientist.
5. Engineering: Your mathematical knowledge can also be essential in the engineering field. You can consider getting an internship in an engineering field to gain knowledge. You can work in careers such as mechanical engineering, robotics engineering, and aeronautical engineering.
6. Research: You can also take up research positions as a mathematician. You can collaborate with other professionals to develop new mathematical theories. As a mathematician, you can take up roles such as logistics specialist, research specialist and research analyst.

Universities in Africa that Offer Mathematics Degrees

1. University of Nigeria, Nigeria
2. Cairo University, Egypt
3. University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
4. Zagazig University, Egypt
5. Alexandria University, Egypt
6. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
7. University of Ibadan, Nigeria
8. Covenant University, Nigeria
9. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
10. Rhodes University, South Africa
11. University of Lagos, Nigeria
12. University of Cape Town, South Africa
13. Tanta University, Egypt
14. University of Nairobi, Kenya
15. Moi University, Kenya
16. University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
17. Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
18. University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe
19. Ain Shams University, Egypt
20. University of Ilorin, Nigeria
21. Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
22. Tunis University, Tunisia
23. Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
24. University of Ghana, Ghana
25. Port Said University, Egypt
26. Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
27. University of Annaba, Algeria
28. Durban University of Technology, South Africa
29. University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
30. Makerere University, Uganda

In Conclusion, pursuing a career as a mathematician requires a high level of dedication and commitment to this field. You need to lay the right foundation as it will serve as a breakthrough to your career success. Additionally, you choose the area of specialisation you wish to pursue, whether applied or theoretical mathematics. Then, obtain the required education and skills that will enable you to excel.

Good luck!

Click to discover an extensive list of local and international schools offering courses and programs in various career path