Mathematician (SA)

Education and Training:

To become a mathematician you usually have to study mathematics at university. There are a number of different degrees within which you can study mathematics. These include arts, engineering and science. Mathematics can also be studied at some universities as part of a double degree with other courses such as law, medicine, actuarial studies, finance and engineering. Mathematics and statistics are closely related areas and many students combine study in both.

To get into these courses you usually need to gain your SACE. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information:

Examples of some interesting problems that can be solved by mathematicians can be seen by visiting the Australian Academy of Science NOVA website (www.science.org.au/nova). The Australian Mathematical Society's website provides links to most mathematics departments in Australian universities. For more information on the kinds of jobs available, visit the International Centre of Excellence for Education in Mathematics website.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Mathematicians are employed in a wide range of capacities such as scientists, top- and mid-level managers, executives and administrators, academics and research personnel in universities, teachers, computer systems analysts and developers, and in the finance sector. They are in demand in ever-increasing areas where mathematical models are used, for example, insurance models in the finance industry, econometric models in government departments and models related to the physical sciences. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), the Defence Science and Technology Organisation and other government bodies are also employers of mathematicians. Additionally, there is nearly always a demand for teachers of mathematics.