Careers & Outcomes

Math can be found in almost every sector of the world, which means the demand for such graduates is strong. In mathematics and statistics at Calvin, you will develop many widely-applicable skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, computer skills and the ability to communicate effectively, all of which lead Calvin graduates to be successful in many different fields.

What can you do with a mathematics major?

The variety of applications of mathematics is staggering. Our students study mathematics to become teachers, analysts, actuaries, biostatisticians, computer programmers and much more. See Mathematical Moments publications from the American Mathematical Society to see more descriptions of these opportunities.

Here are a few career possibilities for mathematics majors:

WeUseMath.org is a site dedicated to highlighting all the different ways people are using mathematics in the workplace. Take a look, you might find a career path you would never have imagined. Or get started at the Career Center.

Statistics and biostatistics

Two growing fields worthy of attention are actuarial science and biostatistics. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 27% increase in biostatistics jobs through 2022. A mathematics and statistics major, along with strong advising from professors about complementary courses in other programs (biology, public health), can prepare you to enter graduate school in biostatistics or statistics.

Actuarial science

Calvin offers a major in actuarial science professors in the department also provide advising if you are interested in becoming an actuary. Calvin students interested in actuarial work often work as interns before graduation. This is a great way to gain experience and find out more about the profession. The current pre-actuarial advisor is Thomas Scofield.

Mathematics teaching

Many of our graduates become teachers of middle school and high school mathematics. Calvin's program of strong course work in both mathematics and education, seminars devoted to the teaching of mathematics, and practical experience in the classroom prepare students well for careers as mathematics educators.

Education beyond Calvin

For some careers, additional education may be required or recommended. Many Calvin graduates go to graduate school in mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics and biostatistics. These students receive scholarships, fellowships or assistantships from outstanding universities. In the past several years, our graduates have received doctorates from University of Illinois, Notre Dame, Washington, Oregon, Purdue and Wisconsin. Other graduates complete master's degrees in mathematics or statistics and take positions in industry or with private or governmental agencies, working as research consultants, operations research specialists, or statisticians.

Continued education for actuaries is a bit different. Typically actuaries begin working for a company in the insurance or financial sector and continue to prepare for and take additional actuarial exams while they are employed. Many employers allow employees to spend part of their work time preparing for these exams. Find out more about the actuarial profession at beanactuary.org.

Combining mathematics with other disciplines

A number of our majors and minors combine their programs with a major in another discipline like biology, chemistry, computer science , economics, engineering, or physics. Mathematics is a useful skill to add to any of these programs (and others as well) and can open up additional opportunities in a wide variety of careers. We welcome anyone who is interested in combining mathematics with something else in this way.