How to become a mathematician

Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

What mathematicians do

• Mentor others on mathematical techniques.
• Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.
• Develop new principles and new relationships between existing mathematical principles to advance mathematical science.
• Disseminate research by writing reports, publishing papers, or presenting at professional conferences.
• Assemble sets of assumptions, and explore the consequences of each set.
• Perform computations and apply methods of numerical analysis to data.

Skills that matter most

• Mathematics
• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Learning
• Writing
• Science
• Active Listening
• Speaking

Is mathematician a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 149% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Washington $162,280
• Virginia $148,030
• Maryland $131,810
• Illinois $130,970
• New York $126,950

Mathematicians salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.