Math for Business

Mathematics is the study of quantitative relationships expressed in numbers and symbols. It focuses on mathematical concepts and theories and involves their formulation, testing, interpretation, and practical application. Mathematics is usually referred to as either pure (theoretical and abstract) or applied (practical and result-oriented). Major branches include number theory, algebra, geometry, logic, calculus, probability, combinatorics, and statistics.*

Sample Occupations

  • Insurance
  • Actuary
  • Underwriter
  • Insurance Broker
  • Claims Analyst
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Investment Advisor
  • Financial Advisor
  • Benefit Specialist
  • Mortgage Officer
  • Loan Manager
  • Auditor
  • Research
  • Statistician
  • Information Scientist
  • Data Analyst
  • Education
  • Student Loan Specialist
  • Math Teacher
  • Faculty Member
  • Nonprofit
  • Fundraising Coordinator
  • Technology
  • System Analyst
  • Computer Programmer
  • Marketing/Sales
  • Market Researcher
  • Retail Buyer

Types of Employers

  • Research Organizations
  • Accounting Firms
  • Educational Institutions
  • Public Corporations
  • Real Estate Firms
  • Financial Services
  • Insurance Brokers
  • Pharmaceutical Companies
  • Large Research Hospitals
  • Government Agencies

Preparing for your career in

Education: Seek opportunities to volunteer with school-related programs to gain experience working with students, volunteer as a math tutor to gain experience explaining

mathematical concepts, develop strong writing skills, seek teaching licensure to increase employment opportunities

Statistics/Actuarial Science/Insurance:

Develop a thorough understanding of database and spreadsheet software, learn to communicate complex mathematical

terminology and computations into simple terms, build strong writing skills, keep abreast of trends in your fields

of interest such as certification exams

Buying/Purchasing/Sales: Seek leadership positions in campus organizations, develop strong interpersonal skills to communicate well with a wide variety of people, work in a retail store or fundraising position, learn to work well under pressure in a competitive environment

Computers: Take classes/earn certifications in computer programming and software administration, work in a campus computer lab or maintain the website for a student organization, gain experience with leadership and public speaking to advance to management or training positions

Banking & Finance: Double major or minor in business to build knowledge in marketing, finance, and accounting, gain experience through an internship in a financial services firm, join a business student organization or serve as treasurer of student organization

How do I know if its right for me?

ASSESS: Take a career assessment, such as PathwayU, to see how your interests, values, and personality fit with majors and careers.

RESEARCH: Research the careers on this WCIDWAMI and thousands of other careers using O*Net Online, The Occupational Outlook Handbook or FirstHand.

EXPLORE: Learn more about a career field of interest by job shadowing, attending a career panel, or participating in a Career Trek. Further your exploration while gaining valuable skills by completing an internship, co-op, volunteer, or research experience.