For more than 2,500 years, mathematics has provided humanity with calculation models that make the world understandable. It is divided into two large sub-areas: theoretical and applied mathematics.
There is hardly a product that does not contain mathematics, even if it is often invisible. In addition, mathematics is the language and tool of many other sciences, especially the natural sciences. In essence, it provides computational models with which reality can be described and with the help of which generally valid statements can be made. The aim of studying mathematics is therefore to learn and master mathematical concepts and methods. The ability to think abstractly and structurally is therefore a prerequisite for the study and profession of a mathematician.
Equally important is the readiness for interdisciplinary cooperation. This is already taken into account during the studies by the obligatory choice of a minor subject. The chosen minor or major can be a natural science, engineering, economics, or computer science, depending on the place of study. However, the choice of other minor subjects is not excluded at many locations.
The bachelor's program teaches in-depth basics in analysis (differential and integral equations, function theory, integration theory), linear algebra and analytical geometry, applied mathematics/stochastics (probability calculation and statistics, modeling), numerics and optimization. For application-oriented study programs, the timetable also includes modules on the selected technical, scientific, medical or economic application areas. In addition to various methods and working techniques, the basics of computer science and the use of professional software as well as higher-level programming languages, including “computer internships”, are usually offered.
In the master's program, you will then deepen your knowledge or develop your profile, for example in pure mathematics or in various applied subjects, for example in technological or business mathematics.
The statistics course covers the subjects of statistics, mathematics, computer science and one or more application areas. Examples of module offers include: introduction and basics, linear methods and models, mathematical statistics and probability calculations, core areas of applied statistics, practical statistics with project or case studies, mathematical module offerings for analysis, vector and matrix calculations, numerics and logic. In the field of computer science, there are modules on data analysis, programming, software development, database and information systems as well as statistical software. Applied mathematics generally includes project studies and internships. These can be done, for example, in actuarial statistics, social research, biometrics, psychometrics, geosciences and meteorology.
Bachelor's degree programs in mathematics rarely have admission restrictions. Prospective students usually have to decide on a major or minor subject in addition to mathematics.
Mathematicians work primarily in companies in the insurance and credit industries, at manufacturers of data processing technology, at software companies, as well as management consultancies and market research institutes. As business mathematicians (and after further training as actuaries), they work for insurance companies, banks, building societies or professional pension institutions.
In the course of technological development, new areas of responsibility arise in areas such as biotechnology or medical technology. There are also employment opportunities in the public sector, particularly at statistical offices and authorities as well as at universities.
