Uni Stuff > Mathematics

Pure Maths - The What & The Why?

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Bozo:
Hey guys, this isn't bozo, one of this mates. Just posting this to ask you guys!

I'm interested in doing a pure maths PhD and I have a few questions:

1. How long would I be at university for in total and could you explain the route there?
2. How hard is it to become a university professor/lecturer whereby you lecture a bit and do some research? Is competition competitive?
3. As I was never into maths at at younger age, I only developed an interest at 16, would I be too far behind the likes of Thushan in getting into a job like this. Like for instance, to be a professional athlete in soccer, you need to be trained from the age of 3-4 to stand any chance. Is this the same case for mathematics?
4. What pay does a lecturer/professor receive. I don't care much about money so long as I can live comfortably and support a family.
5. Job security?

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!
It's my dream to be a mathematics professor, just not sure if it's a possible reality :(

Bozo:
Also, True Tears, this question was pretty much posted for you and Ahmad!

mark_alec:
1. You can expect it to take at least 7-8 years (4 years for honours, 3-4 for PhD).
2. Very difficult, there are not many academic positions available.
3. It won't matter if you haven't done much maths before uni, the only assumed knowledge is high school level.
4. Pay - http://policy.unimelb.edu.au/UOM0115#section-1.1 - better than average but much less than in other professions.
5. If you are tenured, then great, otherwise you can expect stress every 2-3 years as you will constantly be required to apply for grants.

Don't let the difficulty put you off, if it is what you love doing then 1) doing what you love will make you happy 2) you can get a job in any field that requires quantitative and analytical skills.

Bozo:
With regards to question 2:

How is it comparing to get into medical school in terms of difficulty?

Look, not to blow my own trumpet, but my teacher's words,"you are the most mathematically gifted student I have ever had" and he has tutored 50s in spesh. I want to study medicine, it's comfortable lifestyle, social respect, fascinating job and rewarding. But my heart is telling me to study maths.

Just how difficult is it, could you please elaborate?

mark_alec:
Across Australia there will be more positions in medical school than academic positions in maths departments - both will be difficult but it will be easier getting into a course (medicine) than finding an academic post.

If maths is what you love and if you are talented at it, then by all means pursue it - nothing stops you from jumping across to medicine in the future if that's where your fortunes will lie.

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