A math major can provide the ideal basis for many careers. Mathematics offers a strong background in skills many businesses seek when recruiting new employees. It can be especially marketable when complemented by a minor in an area of interest. An education in mathematics teaches students to think critically and creatively, solve problems, organize information, handle technical language and notation, and to speak and write precisely.

While some math majors intend to pursue teaching or graduate studies in math, applied math, statistics, physics or engineering, these are not the only options available to them. Math majors are welcomed in professional schools to study business, law or medicine. Math is especially good preparation for law school because of its emphasis on critical thinking and precision.

Computer scientists work as theorists, researchers, or inventors. They apply their higher level of theoretical expertise and innovation to complex problems and the creation or application of new technology. Computer scientists employed by academic institutions work in areas such as complexity theory, hardware and programming-language design. Computer scientists who work in the private industry are involved in areas such as applying theory, developing specialized languages or information technologies, or designing programming tools, knowledge-based systems, or even computer games.