The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has reported there were nearly 6.2 million STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) jobs in 2015. That figure represents more than 6% of all U.S. jobs and includes an array of job opportunities for students interested in mathematics. Now, math-oriented students can choose from a range of exciting – and perhaps even surprising – careers

All career and salary information below, unless otherwise stated, is from the BLS.

1. Computer Programmer

As a computer programmer, your students will write and test code that allows computer applications and software to run effectively. When developing this code, they use math by inserting formulas and using basic arithmetic and algebra to ensure the code works properly. They troubleshoot errors and update existing code, as well.  

2. Meteorologist

It may surprise you, but math is an essential part of predicting the weather. Meteorologists use numerical weather prediction to analyze weather models and accurately develop forecasts. They need to be proficient in basic and linear algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and differential equations.

3. Financial Planner

Working with money might be an obvious choice, but the opportunities are too vast to ignore. The need for financial planners will grow by 15 percent between 2016 and 2026, a pace faster than the national average. Financial planners work with numbers throughout the day, analyzing their clients’ finances, determining how to invest their money, and managing clients’ cash flow.

4. Animator

While it is the responsibility of an animator to expertly use art and computer skills to develop a television show, movie, or video game, this occupation also requires math skills. According to the Mathematical Association of America, animators use mathematical principles as they build their work entirely on computers. They will use rules of trigonometry, for example, to move characters across the screen and calculus to ensure every scene features appropriate lighting.

5. Air Traffic Controller

Air traffic controllers ensure that the sky stays safe by carefully directly air traffic. They’re responsible for guiding planes to successful takeoffs and landings. Air traffic controllers cannot successfully achieve this important task without using math to analyze distances between aircrafts, altitude, and speed. 

6. Urban Planner

Creating well-designed cities depends on urban planners who can artfully consider population growth and revamp physical facilities to accommodate the growth. Urban planners use math, especially geometry, as they lay out communities to ensure they feature a functional design that citizens can enjoy. Job growth for urban planners will increase by 13 percent between 2016 and 2026, making it a field worth researching for students who enjoy math.

7. Sports Analytics

Sports analytics is a broad and emerging field that offers several opportunities for math-minded students. These sports analysts might work for a team, a news outlet, or a sports network.

8. Technical Writer

Writing and math might seem like divergent career paths, but they collide in technical writing. Technical writers are capable of presenting highly technical material in a clear and concise manner so that the average reader can absorb the content. Technical writers may work for private organizations, government agencies, or in research-based fields like agriculture or aerospace.

Enhancing Your Career as Math Teacher

There are a lot of exciting math careers your students can pursue, and there are plenty of opportunities for you, too. With an online Master of Science in Mathematics degree, you’ll learn a range of advanced mathematical concepts, including abstract algebra, statistics, and calculus, which will provide a well-rounded education. Shawnee State University’s fully online program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals, including licensed educators. As an online student enrolled in the online master’s in mathematics, you will experience individualized attention throughout your educational experience with one-on-one assistance from your professors. Plus, our accelerated program can be completed in as little as 27 months.