Not sure if I should go with a mathematics major

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and uncertainties faced by a university student contemplating a mathematics major and a potential career as a professor. Participants explore various academic paths, alternative career options, and the competitive nature of academia.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the viability of pursuing a PhD and becoming a professor, seeking advice on the career path.
  • Another participant highlights the competitive nature of academic positions and suggests having a backup plan, such as taking additional courses in programming.
  • A participant mentions considering a double major in physics or accounting/finance to enhance career prospects and financial feasibility.
  • Discussion includes the suggestion of pursuing applied mathematics as a major, potentially combined with computer science or finance, due to job market considerations.
  • One participant advocates for the actuarial profession as a viable plan B, noting its good pay and job prospects, along with the necessary skills and certification process involved.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of personal passion for mathematics in deciding whether to continue with further studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of having a backup plan while pursuing a mathematics major, but there is no consensus on the best path forward, as opinions vary on the value of different majors and career options.

Contextual Notes

Participants express various assumptions about job market conditions and personal interests, which may influence their recommendations. The discussion does not resolve the uncertainties regarding the best academic or career path.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students considering a mathematics major, those interested in academic careers, or individuals exploring alternative career paths in STEM fields.

RAF1940
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Hi, everyone!

Well, I'm currently a math major at university, planning on going BS -> MS -> PhD, and then being a professor. The problem is, I'm not sure if this is a good career path.

Can anyone give me some insight or advice into this? Thanks.
 
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Becoming a professor is really difficult. It is very competitive, and many talented people don't end up making it. This isn't supposed to discourage you. If you want to be a professor, then go for it. But you should absolutely have a plan B. This could consist out of taking other applicable courses in your undergrad. For example, taking a few programming courses is very beneficial.
 
Yep, plan B type things are part of why I posted this.

I did take a CS class in the spring, and I may take another next spring. I'm just going into my sophomore year, so I've got plenty of time. I'm also considering a double major with physics or possibly with accounting/finance (to be more financially feasible and have a more lucrative career). Can anyone advise about that?
 
At my school the math majors choose from 4 different tracks, general math, applied math, math education, and then risk assessment and finance. I would personally go with applied mathematics and a computer science double major or applied math and finance. It's probably going to be very difficult to find a job with just a math degree
 
Yeah, I was thinking about applied mathematics as well.

What do you guys think about applied math/finance? And thanks for replying!
 
Applied Math and finance is a great option. One option you have is an actuary (which is my plan B), it has great pay and good job prospects.

An actuary requires good math skills, especially in probability and statistics, and a basic understanding of micro and macro economics. There are official "actuary tests" that you can take to certify yourself, and corporations take those tests seriously. You can get more info from google if you're interested.
 
Alright, thanks.
 
Well to start,
I don't think we really know enough about you to tell you what the best option is. Do you really enjoy the work in math you are doing? are you passionate about it? Do you enjoy it?
If yes to all, then I think you should absolutely pursue further studies. You wouldn't want to kick yourself later for not giving it a shot.

That being said, as mentioned above, sometimes things don't work out and it is often beneficial to have a plan B. It couldn't hurt to look at alternatives.
 

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