The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) strongly holds the view that all students should develop employability skills within the context of their Mathematics degree courses. Mathematics graduates need to acquire subject knowledge and competency, together with a broad range of wider skills for employability in order to meet the demands of the modern workplace.
The common language of Mathematics has become increasingly important across the employment sector. Mathematics graduates benefit from opportunities to work in a range of sectors, and the flexibility to change career directions as required. Well established employment options for Mathematics graduates include data science, mathematical modelling, research, engineering, teaching, accountancy, actuarial science, finance, and computing. However, career opportunities for Mathematics graduates are continually expanding. In particular, the role of ‘analyst’ has emerged strongly in a vast range of both new and traditional businesses in which there is greater emphasis on algorithmic approaches arising from digital technology, the use of large data sets, security, communication and computer-based technology. Computer-based mathematical modelling of commercial and industrial processes is of vital importance to many employers—the use of such models usually requires good mathematical insight, and the development of these models can require advanced mathematical skills. Computational skills will typically include programming in one or more languages.
Graduates from Mathematics courses generally have a strong numerate base and degree courses include opportunities for students to develop analytical, numerical, modelling and problem-solving skills. Within an increasingly global competitive employment framework employers also require mathematically-skilled graduates to exhibit key transferable skills such as team working, self-management, and both written and verbal communication skills. Students will have opportunities to develop these skills within the curriculum of their degree courses, and the provision of such opportunities is an expectation within the IMA’s course accreditation scheme. Such opportunities may very usefully be supplemented by placements, internships and wider extra-curricular activities.
Higher Education Service Area Committee
June 2021
