WHAT TO DO WITH A MAJOR
IN . . .
Mathematics and Computer Science
In today's fast-paced technological world, a background in
mathematics and computer science is a valuable tool when it comes to looking
for employment.
The mathematics and computer science curricula are closely
related, and you should obviously possess strong analytical skills if you
are considering declaring one of these field as a major.
Some courses available that may help you decide if
mathematics or computer science is for you include:
MA103 Finite Mathematics,
MA115 Precalculus,
MA161 Calculus, CS120
Computer Science I, and
CS122 Computer Science II.
Starting salaries are contingent upon geographic location
and the individual applicant's work experience and initiative, and usually
range from $50,000 to $80,000.
Potential Careers
NMU's Mathematics and Computer Science Program prepares
students for employment in a variety of careers that include:
| GOVERNMENT |
CONSIDERATIONS |
- Agriculture Department
- Treasury Department
- Defense Department
- Justice Department
- Commerce Department
- Labor Department
- Library of Congress
- NASA
- Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
|
You can
gain excellent experience in the government field by finding an
internship related to your interests. It is important to make
"contacts" if you are interested in securing governmental
employment. |
BUSINESS and INDUSTRY |
CONSIDERATIONS
|
- Actuary
- Accountant
- Market Research Analyst
- Programmer
- Systems Operator
- Financial Planner
- Statistician/Statistical Consultant
- Banker
- Insurance Agent
- Information Analyst
|
Some of
these positions may require special certification. A minor or
second major in business may be helpful, as would obtaining an
internship. |
EDUCATION |
CONSIDERATIONS
|
- K-12
- Community College
- Technical Institutes
- Four-year Colleges and Universities
|
A teaching
certificate is usually required to teach mathematics at the
elementary or secondary levels. A graduate degree is required
to teach at the community college and university levels. |
GRADUATE SCHOOL and PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION |
CONSIDERATIONS
|
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Statistics
- Physics
|
Remember to
take any necessary exams early; it can take six weeks for results to
be sent to the schools to which you applied. |
Information on
Actuarial Science
Information on Operations
Research
Mathematical and computer science skills are in
greater and greater demand in today's workforce. The
government, private industry, health and environmental fields, and
the academic world all require sophisticated mathematical skills to
help solve various problems. If you do decide to pursue
Mathematics or Computer Science as a major, you are gaining an
educational background that many employers seek in job applicants.
Still, other skills and competencies you acquire during your time at
NMU will be well-utilized when you enter the job market or continue
your education in graduate school. Communication skills are
absolutely necessary in any career field today, so be sure to
possess strong speaking and writing skills. Employers need
people who are able to communicate effectively with others.
Moreover, your research skills, critical thinking and
problem-solving ability, and general analysis skills will be
sharpened through your mathematics and computer science courses, and
also through various elective courses.
A bachelor's degree in mathematics is the minimum
education needed for prospective mathematicians. In the
federal government, entry-level job candidates usually must have a
four-year degree with a major in mathematics. Prior work
experience is an asset if you major in computer science. Many
students develop an area of expertise in their jobs which tends to
make them more marketable to employers. It is important that
computer scientists be able to communicate effectively with people
of all backgrounds since they often times find themselves working in
a large group with people in other parts of the country or world.
Since technology advances so rapidly in the computer field, it is
always necessary to keep your skills up to date. Continuous
education is usually offered by employers, hardware and software
vendors, colleges/universities, or private training institutes.
You can best prepare yourself for a career in
mathematical and/or computer science field through academic and
extra-curricular involvement. Your course work will give you
the necessary theoretical background, while extra-curricular
activities, internships, or part-time work will give you
considerable hands-on experience. Both are important in
today's job market. NMU is also here to help. The
Academic and Career Advisement
Center can provide you with career planning help, while the
JOBSearch Center will help
you fine-tune your resume and job plan. Begin preparing for
life and after graduation early; don't wait until you have the
diploma in hand.
For career planning and opportunities contact
Academic and Career Advisement
Center.
For job search, resume and career information
contact the JobSEARCH Center.
For information about NMU student organizations
associated with this major, contact
Student Activities and Leadership
Programs.
Internet Resource Links:
For career information with national
organizations:
For Federal Job Opportunities
|
