Statistical and Mathematical Assistant Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Assists in planning the collection, processing and presentation of statistical, mathematical or actuarial data.
What does a Statistical and Mathematical Assistant do?
A Statistical and Mathematical Assistant supports the collection, processing and presentation of numerical information. The work can involve checking data quality, preparing information for analysis, applying mathematical or statistical methods, and helping decision-makers understand results. Possible areas include statistical assistance, mathematical support, actuarial assistance, data quality and decision support analysis.
Specialisations
How to become a Statistical and Mathematical Assistant in South Africa
- Build a strong foundation in Mathematics and data-focused work at school.
- Consider a direct study pathway such as the Bachelor of Science: Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, the Bachelor of Science: Mathematical: Physical and Statistical Sciences, or the Bachelor of Science in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences in Industrial Mathematics.
- Develop practical ability in collecting, processing, checking and presenting numerical data.
- Consider further study through the Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (Industrial Mathematics) or the Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Statistics.
- Confirm current admission, provider, qualification and registration details with the relevant institution or official body before enrolling or applying for work.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
The mapped direct pathways include bachelor's degrees in mathematical, statistical and industrial mathematics sciences at NQF levels 6 and 7. Further-study options include honours degrees in industrial mathematics and statistics at NQF level 8. These qualifications can support preparation for the career, but the most suitable route depends on the type of statistical, mathematical, actuarial, data-quality or decision-support work you want to pursue. Verify current course availability and requirements with the relevant provider.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Computer Applications Technology
- Information Technology
- English
Skills that may help
- Mathematical reasoning
- Statistical thinking
- Data collection and processing
- Data quality checking
- Numerical accuracy
- Presenting statistical or mathematical information
- Problem-solving
- Clear communication