The Career
Generally, mathematics is a profession chosen by people who are analytical by nature and approach problems thinking critically. Many employers value these traits and the skills developed and demonstrated by mathematics majors.
A career in this field can take many forms from banking, finance, actuarial work and insurance to programming, software/systems engineering, teaching and government. Mathematics graduates also have a good record of being admitted to professional law, business and medical schools.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in mathematics should:
- Be able to analyze, compare and interpret facts and figures quickly
- Have solid problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
- Be good at working with people, business systems and computers
- Have strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
Employment and Salary Information
The number of mathematics jobs nationwide is increasing by at least an average rate compared to all other occupations, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For example, by 2020, statistician jobs are expected to increase by 14% and actuary positions by 27%.
As of May 2010, the median annual salary for four main mathematics careers (requiring at least a bachelor’s degree) were:
| Operation Research Analyst |
$70,960 |
| Statistician |
$72,830 |
| Actuary |
$87,650 |
| Mathematician |
$99,380 |
The Program
ECC students who earn their Associate of Arts Degree in Mathematics are prepared to enter an undergraduate major leading to further training and careers in this field. Through this AA degree program, students develop the foundational skills in mathematics, flexibility in thinking and intellectual sophistication necessary for career advancement.
Students have several course options and electives available. Assuming appropriate placement scores, mathematics is a two-year degree, with flexibility to customize the program toward the student’s chosen career.
This academic plan consists of the 43-credit hour general education core required of all transfer degrees plus the necessary electives in traditional mathematics, the calculus sequence, statistics, differential equations and more. In addition, the college provides various student activities, organizations and practicum experiences related to the discipline.
Admission Requirements
To enter the program, students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation must be sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results)
Transfer Options
This curriculum is intended for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution. Many of the credits, particularly the general education electives earned with this degree, are accepted as transfer credits by four-year colleges and universities. These decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution.
Students seeking to transfer should communicate often with their faculty advisors and the East Central College transfer advisor. They should also make early contact with the four-year institution of their choice regarding the transferability of ECC credits and coursework.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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