Career Outlook

Math, statistics and actuarial science careers continue to rank among the most in-demand professions in business, technology and data-driven industries. These fields combine mathematics, computing and analytical thinking to solve practical problems and support decision-making across nearly every sector.


Statistics

Statisticians turn data into meaningful insights. They design studies, analyze information and help organizations make informed decisions based on evidence rather than guesswork.

Statistics combines mathematics, computing and communication skills. Statisticians often collaborate with professionals in medicine, business, engineering, environmental science and government.

Key Interests and Skills

  • Mathematics, data and computing
  • Problem-solving using real-world data
  • Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
  • Curiosity and continuous learning
  • Work across a wide range of industries

Where Statisticians Make an Impact

  • medicine and healthcare: Statisticians support medical research by designing studies and analyzing clinical data.
  • environmental research: Environmental statisticians analyze climate, pollution and ecosystem data.
  • business and industry: Organizations use statistics to improve products and decision-making.
  • government and public policy: Agencies rely on statisticians to interpret data on major social and economic issues.
  • market research: Researchers analyze consumer behavior and survey data to guide business decisions.

Statistics Careers

  • Marketing and market research firms
  • Pharmaceutical and healthcare companies
  • Technology and software development organizations
  • Government agencies and public policy organizations
  • Colleges and universities

Actuarial Science

Actuaries analyze risk and uncertainty to help businesses and organizations make sound financial decisions using mathematics, statistics and financial modeling.

Actuaries work in insurance, consulting, finance, healthcare and other industries to evaluate future outcomes and manage financial risk.

Key Interests and Skills

  • Mathematics and analytical problem-solving
  • Risk analysis and financial modeling
  • Goal-oriented and detail-focused work
  • Business and economic decision-making
  • Long-term forecasting and planning

What Actuaries Do

  • Analyze insurance pricing and financial risk
  • Estimate future claims and liabilities
  • Evaluate financial impact of large-scale events
  • Support corporate planning and strategy
  • Build predictive financial models

Actuarial Career Resources

Get Involved in Actuarial Science at NIU

  • Join the NIU Actuarial Club.
  • Participate in an actuarial internship.
  • Prepare for preliminary actuarial exams through coursework.

Actuarial Careers

  • Insurance companies
  • Financial and consulting firms
  • Risk management organizations
  • Benefits and pension administration
  • Corporate planning and forecasting

Contact Us

School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
DeKalb, IL 60115
Andrew Ledoan, Director
aledoan@niu.edu
815-753-0566

Registration or class questions:

Anders Linner
Associate Director, Enrollment Management
alinner@niu.edu
815-753-6722

Advising