Why a mathematics degree makes sense
WHILE mathematical terms likes algebraic trigonometry, vectors and linear equations may not make sense to the average person, mathematics is at the centre of the advancement in science and technology and has helped to shape the modern world.
Given the importance of the study and analysis of numerical data in this information driven world, mathematics continues to be a subject area that is offered by several universities under their various degree programmes. Mathematics teacher Stephen Murray, who completed his first degree in mathematics and who will be pursuing a master’s in this area come September, can understand the reason for this.
“Mathematics is very applicable to a lot of real life situations,” said the mathematician, who explained that he has had friends in other sectors such as business and finance coming to him to analyse complex issues.
“I did mathematics because I found that a lot of my friends didn’t understand it and always sought my help,” he said.
“I was always interested in formulas and numbers and wanted to find ways to break down these formulas to them.”
Why does a mathematics major make sense?
Murray noted that given the shortage of mathematics teachers locally, a person who pursues a degree in this area might find it easier to get a job within the school setting.
“In Jamaica now, you have a lot of teachers who are teaching mathematics, but do not understand it because they didn’t go to school to learn the various concepts,” he said. Mathematical formulas and principles have also become a part of everyday life and are applicable to several fields including medicine and finance.
Where in Jamaica can you pursue a degree or courses in mathematics?
University of the West Indies, Shortwood Teachers’ College, Mico Teachers’ College, College of Agriculture, Science and Education.
What are the jobs available for those with a mathematics major?
Teaching (primary and secondary school); professor (university or college); biotechnologist, actuary, product developer, statistician, demographer, scientist, database administrator, neuroscientist, software developer, systems analyst, computer programmer, financial or investment analyst, computer animator, bioengineer.
Some famous people with mathematics degrees:
Michael Jordan (basketballer), Florence Nightingale (nurse), Carl Rowan (Washington Post columnist), Ralph Abernathy (civil rights leader).