Should I major in mathematics?

Question

Hello.
I'm presently a college freshman, interested in mathematics and computer science. I thought about majoring in physics, but I don't think I would enjoy working as a physicist.
So now I'm considering majoring in math, with my support field in computer science. I'm just sort of afraid that I may turn out sucking at high-level math, or something? I'm taking calculus 1 now and I guess I'm okay at it.
Is majoring in math generally a good idea? What sort of careers can I expect out of it?
I don't really know what I want to do. Just whatever doesn't suck.
I don't want to be a teacher. I'd rather a velociraptor eat my face.

Answer 1

Since you are undecided, I'd keep my options open as long as possible. If you have to declare something, math is pretty innocuous. Keep taking physics courses, mix in a statistics course or two and definately keep up with comp sci. Most of all, keep an open mind and try to keep your electives interesting. Take a few courses in social sciences and a few in the humanities.
Math is a decent major. Physics isn't a bad one either. I have a double major in math/physics and got masters in information science and statistics. I turned out to suck at high-level math, but found the concepts very helpful for dealing with advanced concepts in other fields. If I had it to do over again, I doubt I'd change much, maybe avoid that art history course that got me in trouble with a grumpy TA.

Answer 2

I my experience, a lot of people with Masters degrees in Math can't find work and end up being some sort of engineer.

Really now, what jobs are out there that are just Math? A teacher of Math is all I can think of..

My advice? Major in the Computer Science for the career, and minor in Math for the fun of it.

And Computer Science does not require the high level math. Calc 1&2, Linear Algebra and Differiential eqations.. (Which is high enough for me....)


Computer Science is a wide open field anyway, many Software Engineers use math on a daily basis..

Answer 3

You really should not decide for a couple of years since you may discover something even more interesting as you take a wide range of classes. In the mean time, continuing taking math courses since they are prerequisities for medicine, chemistry, engineering, computer science, economics and business, geology, and a number of other fields. Read books on the history of math and the people who created new fields of math. Take physics and chemistry so you know how to apply mathematics. Study literature and writing so you become a skillful communicator. The broader education you get, the more you will be able to apply the math you learn if you decide to make that your major.

Insurance companies, the CIA and the NSA, think tanks, financial institutions, Google and other search engine companies, the Gallop Poll and other companies that research what people are thinking all employ mathematicians.
But they are looking for more than math skills. They want people who are comfortable using their math training to explore many different fields, and are creative, innovative, work well in groups, and are able to communicate clearly what they are doing.

Answer 4

Since you are interested in two subjects, keep your options open in both the fields. For first year or two choose the subjects that meet the requirements for the either field. By then you will have sufficient experience to guess what is ahead. You will also meet others with various experiences, that will expand your horizons. Keep open mind.
Even if you major in Math, you are not stuck to it. The applications are in many fields you may enjoy. Just for initial financial security (if you need to pay the loans) immediately after graduation, Computer Science as a minor field may help you land a job faster.
Follow your heart by all means.

Answer 5

One field that is often overlooked because many feel it is boring is actuarial science. Most people find these individuals weird.

But true mathematicians and CS people find this job challengeing and interesting -- and it pays VERY WELL!

There are several tests (a series of 12 or so) that you need to pass to get the certification. But if you do - a six figure salary is not uncommon.

Best of luck.

Answer 6

i think it sounds great. i guess you can become a mathematics teacher( but since you don't want to) how about a mathematics tutor, or an accountant or an engineer with that degree. if you like math, then that would be a good major for you. don't think about not being able to do good, you should have a positive attitude towards it, besides, thats what your professors are for, to help you when you need it. good luck :)

you should go to the college's career counselor to better help you decide

Answer 7

I think Math is a tough field to get into without being a teacher. You can probably double major in Math and CS by going an extra semester or an extra year. If you double in this way, you options will be great when you get your degree.

Answer 8

Engineers use a lot of math - and have really cool jobs. No velociraptors chewing on your face!

Answer 9

You will have a job. Make sure you get a masters or a PhD. You will have fund and you will be happy.