A mathematics lecturer teaches various levels of this particular subject at colleges and universities. This type of college lecturer presents material on both theoretical and applied mathematics that students need to know for their various career fields. The average mathematics lecturer may teach a range of courses from remedial arithmetic to advanced calculus. Other math professor duties may include meeting one-on-one with students who need extra help or sometimes serving as a guest lecturer at a different school. One of the hallmarks of a good mathematics lecturer is the ability to explain and demonstrate intricate concepts clearly and effectively to students who may not always have previous experience with certain mathematical concepts.
Most higher education institutions require a prospective mathematics lecturer to have a master's degree at minimum. Math teachers with advanced doctorate degrees normally have the best chances of promotion to full-time tenured teaching positions. Many new mathematics lecturers begin their academic careers as junior part-time professors. They often teach low-level courses to students who have tested at remedial math levels and need refresher courses in topics such as arithmetic and basic algebra. This type of mathematics lecturer position carries the responsibility of bringing these students up to the levels they need in order to complete the rest of their university studies.
Some university mathematics professors teach a set of courses designed to fulfill students' general education requirements. Most colleges require one course in math for everyone regardless of degree major. Non-math majors frequently opt for classes in college algebra, geometry, or statistics. One of the most common challenges among math lecturers teaching these courses is communicating how these concepts apply to practical areas outside of a school setting.
A mathematics lecturer may also find employment in a small vocational school rather than a large university. These types of teaching positions are usually focused on the practical applied mathematics used in specific job fields. Math professors in these types of schools often teach mathematics for the health sciences or math for entry-level teachers at the primary or secondary level. Topics covered in these math courses can include principles of measurement, probability, or logic.
Lecturer jobs are considered good options for mathematics enthusiasts who also enjoy helping other people. Some of the most valuable skills a math professor can have include effective spoken and written communication for teaching students of varying ability levels. Many college mathematics department heads consider these teaching skills even more important than the ability to solve complex theorems.
