Is a Math Degree Worth It?

If working with numbers and mathematical concepts is something you enjoy, then pursuing your degree in math could be an ideal educational path.

According to Melissa Wittmer, an educator with over 25 years of experience spanning K-12 and college-level courses, the study of mathematics offers a dynamic, challenging and opportunity-rich academic journey.

Wittmer, who currently serves as a mathematics instructor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), has helped develop innovative online courses, redesigned math curricula and has worked throughout her career to make mathematics engaging and accessible for students across diverse learning environments.

She said that while the study of math can seem daunting, earning your degree in the field can be highly rewarding.

“Math isn’t easy, let’s be honest,” Wittmer said. “In the end, math is like a workout for your brain — it's tough, but it makes you stronger and opens up amazing opportunities."

Are Math Degrees Valued?

One of the most distinguishing aspects of a degree in mathematics, Wittmer said, is that it can be applied to a broad spectrum of professional fields and settings.

Some examples of how a degree in math can span various disciplines, she said, include:

• Data science – analyzing massive amounts of data to inform decision-making.
• Engineering – designing everything from bridges to robots.
• Finance – calculating risks and forecasting trends.
• Healthcare – modeling data to improve patient outcomes and track diseases.
• Technology – designing algorithms for apps like Google Maps and TikTok.

Dr. Adam Panagos, an adjunct instructor at SNHU who teaches courses in linear algebra and deductive reasoning, agreed that a bachelor’s degree in math can be highly valuable.

“The opportunities for mathematics graduates are incredibly diverse,” Panagos said. “With a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, you could pursue an academic path, focusing on research in highly specialized and abstract areas in graduate school.”

Panagos earned his PhD in Electrical Engineering and has spent over 20 years working in private industry and conducting research at places like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He said in addition to a career in academics, a math degree can position you to work in various sectors of industry, government agencies, private companies and many other settings.

“The possibilities are pretty limitless,” Panagos said.

Read More: What Can You Do with a Math Degree?

Is Mathematics A Challenging Area of Study?

The study of math can strike fear into the hearts of many, and while it is a challenging academic discipline, Wittmer said students typically become more comfortable with the material as they work their way through problems and courses.

“But here’s the thing, that challenge is what makes studying math so rewarding,” she said. “Students often say that working through tough problems builds their confidence and helps them grow in ways they didn’t expect — not just in math, but in how they approach challenges in life.”

Panagos said one aspect that some initially struggle with is the lack of understanding of how math relates to real-world issues and problems.

“The material can often seem abstract and disconnected from real-world applications,” he said. “However, as you progress through more classes (or even years of study), you begin to see the bigger picture and understand how this knowledge is both useful and relevant in everyday situations.”

Wittmer agreed, saying the more you practice, the easier it usually becomes to see those connections.

“For example, you might start with simple algebra, then realize later how it’s the backbone of creating computer algorithms or solving real-world puzzles, like optimizing delivery routes for a business,” she said.

What Areas of Knowledge and Skill Will a Degree in Math Provide?

The knowledge and skills you can gain through the study of mathematics aren’t just useful, Wittmer said. They’re essential in countless professions and industries. She said some of these skills include:

• Analytical and quantitative – making sense of numbers and data.
• Communication – learning how to explain technical ideas in a way others can understand.
• Principles and concepts – mastering theoretical areas of calculus, algebra and geometry.
• Problem-solving – understanding how to take on challenges step by step.
• Technical – learning to utilize tools like MATLAB, Python or R.

Additionally, Panagos said, you’ll develop the kind of critical thinking skills that can set you apart in the job market.

“Just as equally important, you (can) develop critical thinking skills that employers highly value, including problem-solving, learning and applying definitions, and approaching challenges in a logical and systematic manner,” Panagos said. “These skills are transferable and can be applied across a wide range of industries.”

What Jobs Can You Get With a Bachelor's in Math?

From teaching, healthcare and finance to tech startups, cybersecurity and engineering — as well as many points in between — a degree in math can open up a world of opportunities, Wittmer said.

“It’s like having a versatile toolkit that applies to so many industries,” she said. “For instance, you could dive into finance, where you might work as a financial analyst, helping companies make smart investment decisions. Or you could explore technology, using your skills to design algorithms or analyze data trends for tech companies.”

Some common jobs for those with a bachelor’s degree in math, Wittmer said, include:

• Actuary and data analyst
• Auditor and financial analyst
• Computer programmer and software developer
• Cryptographer
• Operations research analyst and statistician

A degree in math is highly flexible, Panagos said, and can provide an array of options for both career and personal fulfillment. For example, in addition to his full-time career in engineering, it enables him to teach math on the side, which is something he enjoys.

“However, if teaching isn’t your passion, there are many other exciting opportunities,” Panagos said. “Fields such as defense technology, engineering, data analytics, artificial intelligence and finance all value the problem-solving and analytical skills that come with a math degree.”

It's important to note that some mathematics professions may require you to meet additional educational and industry requirements.

Is Math a High-Growth Career Field?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to grow 11% between 2023 and 2033, a rate much faster than the average for other occupations.*

The BLS also reports the median annual wage for mathematicians was $116,000 in 2023, while the median annual wage for statisticians was $104,110.*

Panagos said it's common for new graduates with a math degree to earn competitive starting salaries.* “However, some of the highest-paying career fields for math graduates are found in finance, the defense industry (especially with private employers) and data analytics or artificial intelligence.”*

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Cary Jordan is an Iowa-based writer with more than 20 years of writing and editing experience on a wide range of issues related to higher education. Cary has held administrative and cabinet-level positions at multiple colleges and universities, and his writing has spanned topics related to undergraduate education as well as graduate education in the areas of business, law, medicine and engineering, among others.