The M in STEM: How a degree in maths can build your international career

A mathematics degree might not seem like the obvious ticket to an international career, but if you look beyond the equations, you’ll see that it’s one of the most versatile and globally relevant degrees you can have. Math is, quite literally, the universal language. Whether you're decoding complex financial models in London, optimising supply chains in Singapore, or programming AI-driven technology in Berlin, a strong foundation in mathematics can take you anywhere.

Mathematics possesses a borderless power. It doesn’t change based on geography. The formulas, theorems, and algorithms you study in one country apply just as effectively in another. This makes mathematics an incredibly mobile skill set, one that isn’t constrained by language barriers or local market conditions. It’s why so many mathematicians and data scientists find themselves working across borders, integrating into different professional and cultural environments. Take, for example, quantitative finance. If you understand risk modelling, statistical analysis, or algorithmic trading, you can work in the financial hubs of New York, Tokyo, or Zurich without missing a beat. Similarly, actuarial science: one of the most lucrative career paths stemming from a maths degree, is in high demand worldwide. As long as there’s risk to calculate, there’s a job waiting for you somewhere.

It's worth noting that mathematics underpins some of the most essential roles in basic finance. Charities, corporations, and governments around the world all rely on finance professionals—accountants, finance business partners, payroll officers—who ensure expenses are tracked, payroll is processed, and operations stay compliant with both local and national regulations. These roles may not be glamorous, but they are mission-critical everywhere, making them a stable and transferable career option for maths graduates looking to build a truly international professional life.

A mathematics degree is a key to high-demand fields. It isn’t just about pure numbers; it’s the backbone of several high-growth industries that are experiencing a global talent shortage. Fields like data science, artificial intelligence, cryptography, and cybersecurity rely heavily on mathematical expertise. Companies in these industries are desperate for people who can solve complex problems, analyse large datasets, and develop algorithms that power everything from healthcare advancements to fintech innovations. Tech companies, in particular, are known for their international hiring practices. If you’re interested in machine learning, and skilled in probability or statistical modelling, you could find yourself working for a global giant like Google, Amazon, or Tesla—or a fast-growing start-up in Dubai, Amsterdam, or Hong Kong. The demand is there, and the opportunities are endless.

A mathematics degree also serves as a passport to a global education and research network. Academia and research are pathways to an international career, and mathematics is a discipline that thrives on global collaboration. Universities and research institutions frequently fund international projects, exchange programmes, and collaborations that allow mathematicians to travel, teach, and contribute to cutting-edge discoveries across the world. Whether you’re diving into climate modelling in Canada, exploring quantum computing in Switzerland, or tackling economic forecasting in China, the possibilities for research-driven global careers are vast. Plus, let’s not forget the international conferences, workshops, and summits where mathematicians gather to exchange ideas. You could find yourself presenting a paper in Paris or attending a symposium in Cape Town, your expertise can open doors to networking opportunities that transcend borders.

A maths degree also provides the flexibility to work, and live, anywhere. One of the most underrated benefits of a mathematics degree is the flexibility it provides. With the rise of remote work and digital nomad lifestyles, many mathematicians and data professionals no longer need to be tied to a single location. Many companies now hire data analysts, financial consultants, and AI specialists on a remote or hybrid basis, allowing professionals to live in one country while working for an employer halfway across the world. For those who love adventure, consulting is another fantastic option. Global consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Deloitte frequently hire quantitative analysts and data specialists to tackle complex business problems across industries and continents. With a strong maths background, you could be working on optimising logistics for an airline in Brazil one month and developing predictive models for a fashion retailer in Milan the next.

More than just numbers, a maths degree provides a mindset that translates globally. Beyond technical skills, a maths degree gives you something even more valuable: a way of thinking. Logical reasoning, problem-solving, analytical thinking—these are universally prized skills in nearly every industry. Employers across the world seek professionals who can approach challenges systematically and come up with innovative solutions. It’s why so many maths graduates find themselves in leadership roles, even outside of traditionally mathematical fields. From policy-making in Washington to tech start-ups in Nairobi, the ability to break down complex problems and create data-driven solutions is a game-changer. Whether you’re working in business, science, government, or entrepreneurship, your mathematical mindset is your competitive edge.

The bottom line? If you have a mathematics degree, you’re not confined to academia or a life of endless calculations. You have a passport to a truly global career. Whether it’s finance, tech, consulting, research, or even entrepreneurship, the world needs people who can think analytically and solve complex problems. Your degree is not just about numbers—it’s about opportunities, and those opportunities span continents. So if you’re looking for a career that’s as international as it is intellectually rewarding, don’t underestimate the power of maths. It’s a degree that can take you places, literally.