Jobs For Mathematicians Multiply In Los Angeles
As more companies continue to conduct business online and on mobile devices, mathematicians will be needed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the number of available posts for mathematicians to grow by 23 percent over the next seven years. This marks a sizable increase in the sum of working professionals tasked with using large amounts of data analysis to support and improve business processes in 2012.
In Los Angeles, experienced mathematicians earn an average annual salary greater than $100,000, according to current statistics. Candidates with a background in computer science should have the best job prospects, with their roles expanding by 2025.
"Mathematicians will likely participate in increasingly diversified interdisciplinary projects, and will benefit from powerful computing tools and broader opportunities for digital collaborations," said Rabia Djellouli, a professor and chair of the department of mathematics at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
How is CSUN addressing the demand for mathematicians?
"We strive to meet growing needs by placing our graduates in mathematics-driven industries and teaching positions at all levels, including K-12, community colleges and research universities, as well as in leading Ph.D. programs."
How is CSUN helping to make mathematicians more marketable?
"Our department maintains a free full-time tutoring center, an active math club, research seminars, internships and extensive mentorship for student research. We also offer career-building mathematical research and training programs that are funded by NASA and the National Science Foundation. Our university-run Interdisciplinary Research Institute for the Sciences also provides mentorship for students pursuing interdisciplinary careers and graduate studies in applied mathematics, science and engineering."
What is the ideal way to plan for a solid occupation in this field?
"The best way to prepare for a sustainable vocation as a mathematician is through a strong, coherent curriculum, early research opportunities and effective mentorship."
What is your message to endeavoring mathematicians?
"In Los Angeles, fields of applied study are becoming increasingly quantified. This is why I encourage aspiring mathematicians to begin preparation for a career in mathematics as early as possible, and enroll as a mathematics major or graduate student at a successful college or university, such as CSUN."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.