TITLE: What to do after a Master's Degree in Pure Mathematics?
QUESTION [40 upvotes]: This is not exactly a math question but I figured this would be the best place to ask - I suppose mathematicians are best qualified to answer it.
This summer I will finish my thesis in pure mathematics and therefore the master's degree itself. My thesis is in Mathematical Logic (concerning functional interpretations); I have a strong background in algebra and a bit of geometry too. 
My plan is to proceed to a PhD, which is actually what I would love to do and is my first option. But I wanted to have a plan B (and C, D, ...) in case things don't go as expected. So the question is: what kind of job outside academia would allow me, simultaneous, to

explore what I've learned so far and use (some of) it
eventually allow me to keep developing my knowledge on mathematics

I mean, a lot of people suggest working at banks, etc - but that's finance, statistics, not pure mathematics. Is there anything out there that meets my needs or am I asking for too much?
Edit: I have a minimal programming background (this basically means I learned the basics of the language C), I very much like programming (specially the logic behind it) and would definitely be interested in learning more.

REPLY [3 votes]: I believe with a background in pure mathematics, you can get a job in cryptography and possibly work for GCHQ and other similar security agencies. The work can be very exciting and you will certainly be working with bright minds and learn in the process. As a general rule, any job in industry will require programming skills so I'd encourage you to brush up on your coding. Although you've already said you don't want to work in finance, I would still encourage you to look into becoming a quantitative analyst. The work requires a high level of mathematics and they are still able to work in other industries apart from banking and finance.
However, if you can find any other practical applications of your research to any industry, with a bit of convincing, there's no reason why they can't hire you. If your line of research has some applied mathematics, there are many more career options available to you.