Pursuing Mathematics After a Different Major: Strategies and Opportunities

It is true that a typical pathway into a mathematics career involves majoring in the subject early on. However, if you have already completed your degree in a different field and are eager to pivot towards mathematics, there are still clear and viable pathways you can take. Let's explore these strategies and opportunities in detail.

Understanding Your Background and Needs

One of the first steps in transitioning to mathematics is to understand what knowledge you already have and what skills you still need to develop. If your undergraduate major was in a field like engineering, where you completed courses like Calculus, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra, you have already laid a strong foundation. However, mathematics in its depth demands a more rigorous treatment of these topics and the introduction of more advanced concepts.

.Enter the Lamp of Advanced Mathematics

After acquiring the necessary fundamental knowledge, it is crucial to delve into the advanced areas of mathematics. Key subjects include:

Modern Algebra, covering Group and Ring Theory Combinatorics Linear Algebra Real and Complex Analysis

These subjects are foundational for many areas of pure and applied mathematics.

The Path to a Mathematics Degree

If you decide that obtaining a mathematics degree is the best way to become a mathematician, you can either complete a second major or an additional certificate in mathematics. Many universities support dual majors, which allows you to combine your current field of study with mathematics. Alternatively, you can pursue a certificate in mathematics, which can be completed alongside your current degree.

It's worth noting that some schools, like Cal Poly, have flexible degree completion schedules that allow you to take more advanced courses after completing a substantial portion of your initial degree.

Preparation for PhD Programs

To enter a PhD program in mathematics, you need to be well-prepared. Typically, this requires completing a suite of advanced undergraduate courses such as Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, and graduate-level courses.

One option is to enroll in online or campus-based courses from college extension programs or universities that offer these advanced courses. This can help you build the necessary background and satisfy the prerequisites for both graduate programs and post-graduate opportunities in mathematics research.

However, directly entering a PhD program can be challenging without a formal mathematics background. If you have not taken these courses, you still have the option to self-study or take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) subject test in mathematics, which many PhD programs require.

Admission to PhD Programs

Even without a traditional mathematics background, it is possible to get accepted into PhD programs, although it might require additional effort. Many PhD programs consider applicants with different academic backgrounds and evaluate their potential for success based on their performance in the GRE subject test and their research interests.

For example, in my own PhD program, I found a diverse group of students with backgrounds in:

An MBA An economics major A physics major

This demonstrates that while a traditional mathematics degree is common, it is not a strict requirement.

To be competitive, it is essential to take preparation seriously, either through self-study or by taking additional coursework in mathematics. Being well-prepared will help you overcome the challenges of gaining admission to a PhD program in mathematics.

Conclusion

Becoming a mathematician after starting in a different major is not impossible but does require dedication and strategic planning. By leveraging your existing knowledge, pursuing advanced courses, and demonstrating your aptitude through the GRE subject test, you can pave your way into a PhD program and a fulfilling career in mathematics.