Mathematics is an abstract discipline with analytics at its core. A graduate qualification in the field can help you become an expert in analytical and statistical methods, which are in high demand in today’s data-driven world. So, a master’s in mathematics will go a long way to help you find a well-paid job.
The flexibility offered by a master’s in mathematics online makes it ideal for working professionals who want to gain a valuable post-graduate qualification, or those with family commitments, or both! Read on to learn the best and most affordable mathematics master’s programs offered online.
The Best and Most Affordable Masters in Mathematics Online Programs
West Texas A&M University
Master of Science in Mathematics
West Texas A&M University is an institution that emphasizes diversity and inclusion. Accredited by SACSCOC (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges), it offers an online master’s in math with the choice of two tracks: Applied Mathematics and Mathematics Education. Both are offered as either a 30-hour thesis program or a 36-hour non-thesis program.
- Tracks: Applied mathematics, mathematics education
- Credit hours: 30 and 36-hour options
- Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, federal work-study
- Location: Canyon, TX
Ball State University
Master of Arts in Mathematics Education
Ball State University has been consistently ranked one of the best online graduate colleges by the US News & World. You can complete this online math master’s program in one of the three different concentrations: elementary and middle school teachers, secondary teachers, and specialists.
- Duration: 2 to 3 years
- Credits: 30 to 36
- Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, veteran benefits
- Location: Muncie, IN
Texas A&M University, College of Science
Master of Science in Mathematics
Texas A&M University is the first public university for advanced learning in Texas, currently offering education to over 69,000 students. Its online master’s degree in mathematics is designed for students with a strong grounding in mathematical knowledge. Depending on the track you choose, you’ll either get training in computational math or math teaching for K12 or community colleges.
- Tracks: Computational math, teaching (K12 or community colleges)
- Credit hours: 36
- Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, grants, and student employment
- Location: College Station, TX
The University of North Alabama, College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering
The University of Alabama is the oldest public university in Alabama and promotes innovation and inclusiveness. Its online master’s in math program is suitable for anyone with a strong mathematics background currently working in education or business.
- Courses: Pure and applied mathematics, statistics, algebra, analysis, and advanced calculus.
- Credit hours: 30
- Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and work-study
- Location: Florence, AL
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Master of Science in Mathematics
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley was ranked no. 1 for its master’s in mathematics program for 2022. This online program equips students to conduct in-depth research in mathematics, communicate mathematical concepts to a non-mathematical audience, and use statistical knowledge to solve real-world issues. You can choose between one of the four concentrations.
- Concentrations: Mathematics, industrial and applied mathematics, mathematics teaching, and statistics.
- Courses: Linear algebra, complex analysis, probability & statistics, and differential geometry.
- Credit hours: 36
- Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, fellowships, veteran benefits
- Location: Edinburg, TX
Emporia State University, Emporia State College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Master of Science in Mathematics
Emporia State University offers a range of online and hybrid programs to students all over the world. Its MS in mathematics program helps students achieve a higher level of knowledge in mathematics to pursue a career in the business or education sectors. To apply for the program, you’ll need to have at least 24 undergraduate credits in mathematics or related disciplines.
- Courses: Statistics and applied mathematics, algebra, analysis, and technology in mathematics.
- Credit hours: 34
- Duration: Less than 3 years
- Financial aid: Loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study
- Location: Emporia, KS
Indiana State University
Master of Science (MS) in Mathematics
With over 70 online programs and over 100 majors, Indiana State University offers flexible higher learning opportunities to students regardless of their geographical location. Its online MS in mathematics program is suitable for working professionals such as high school teachers.
- Courses: Mathematics research, mathematical modeling, linear programming and optimization, and topology.
- Credits: 33
- Duration: 2 to 5 years
- Financial aid: Loans, graduate assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships
- Location: Terre Haute, IN
Kansas State University
Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (Mathematics Education Concentration)
Kansas State University’s online master’s program in curriculum and education offers a mathematics concentration. It will allow you to develop a strong foundation in mathematics and teach the subject at a K12 level.
- Courses: Curriculum development, advanced methods of teaching math, assessment in mathematics education, contemporary technologies in mathematics, and instructional systems design.
- Credit hours: 31
- Financial aid: Scholarships, military benefits, federal loans
- Location: Manhattan, KS
University of West Florida
The University of West Florida has a range of online programs, all with highly competitive tuition and several funding options. This master’s program in mathematical sciences is designed as a foundation for students to continue to a doctoral program or pursue a career in education, science, industry, or business.
- Courses include: Matrix theory, statistical inference, mathematics research, and statistics research
- Credit hours: 30
- Financial aid: Loans, scholarships, and federal work-study
- Location: Pensacola, FL
Central Methodist University
Master of Science in Mathematics
Central University is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and welcomes students of all faiths. This liberal arts university offers many online programs including a master’s in mathematics. This program will prepare you to pursue a career in teaching or industry, or to study a PhD in the field.
- Courses: Matrices & linear algebra, advanced statistics, numerical analysis, and modern algebra.
- Credit hours: 32
- Financial aid: Loans and scholarships
- Location: Fayette, Missouri
Funding Your Online Master’s in Mathematics Program
The tuition for online graduate math programs can be anywhere between $10,000 and $60,000 depending on the university. The costs for the same program may also be different depending on whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student. Generally speaking, state universities and non-profit institutions offer lower tuition than private universities. Aside from tuition, you also need to factor in other fees, and for online programs, this usually includes a technology fee.
If you’re wondering how to cover these costs, don’t worry – there are plenty of options available. Many universities offer financial aid programs such as scholarships and grants. Student loans are another option, though, of course, they need to be paid back sooner or later. Federal and State loans typically offer better terms – complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form to check your eligibility.
Pros and Cons of Master’s in Mathematics
Advantages:
- Strong career prospects: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in math and statistics are predicted to grow by 33% by 2030, more than the average of all professions across the board.
- Commands respect: Being a mathematics professional earns you a great deal of respect, as people understand how difficult it is to master complex mathematical concepts.
- Range of job options: As mathematics is fundamentally an analytical field, a master’s in this subject is useful for many fields. You’ll be eligible for a wide range of jobs, such as data analytics, statistics, research, and teaching.
Drawbacks:
- Limitations of pure mathematics: If you opt for pure mathematics rather than applied mathematics, career opportunities are mostly in research and academia, which means you’ll need a PhD.
- Less interaction with people: Roles in mathematics, especially research positions, mostly involve dealing with data with little interaction with others. Depending on your personality, this may be a challenge, or it may suit you just fine.
Tuition and Graduation Rates for Online Master’s Degree Programs in Mathematics
| University | Program Tuition | Graduation rate |
| West Texas A&M University | $19,328 | 40% |
| Ball State University | $19,380 | 61% |
| Texas A&M University | $19,018.68 | 81.9% |
| University of North Alabama | $10,500 | 44.1% |
| The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | $15,626 | 44% |
| Emporia State University | $24,118 | 44% |
| Indiana State University | $18,546 | 39.1% |
| Kansas State University | $15,828.60 | 62.1% |
| The University of West Florida | $11,538 | 57.2% |
| Central Methodist University | $12,160 | 52.3% |
Admission Requirements for Online Master’s Mathematics Programs
Admission requirements for online math master’s programs vary from university to university. In some cases, you need to have a specific number of credits in mathematics at the undergraduate level. Some programs go a step further and require you to have an undergraduate degree in mathematics or a related field. On the other hand, some programs, online ones in particular, are only open to working professionals with a certain amount of experience.
Most programs also ask for:
- Your undergraduate transcripts. The program may have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or more.
- Some universities require a minimum GRE score, though most universities won’t ask for this for online programs.
- Letters of recommendation, usually three.
- A personal essay or statement outlining your passions, experience, and eligibility for the program.
- Academic resume
Are GREs Compulsory for an Online Master’s in Mathematics Program?
Most online programs don’t ask to see GRE scores. Only three out of ten universities on this list explicitly mention they require GRE scores as part of their application process.
These universities have explicitly mentioned on their web page that a GRE score is not required:
- Texas A&M University
- Kansas State University
- Central Methodist University
Additionally, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley asks for GRE scores only if you don’t have another master’s degree or PhD.
However, requirements can change all the time. Check the latest information with the admissions office of the program you want to apply for when you’re preparing your application.
Careers and Salary Outlook for Master’s in Mathematics Graduates
According to the BLS, the median annual salaries for mathematicians and statisticians are $108,100 and $95,570, respectively.
Here are some of the roles you can expect to land with a Master’s in Mathematics, with the average annual salaries for each:
- Actuary ($98,782)
- College Mathematics Professor ($93,655)
- Chartered Accountant ($89,000)
- Statistician ($78,431)
- Operation Research Analyst ($74,207)
- Mathematician ($71,169)
Master’s in Mathematics Online FAQs
Is it Worth Getting a Master’s in Mathematics?
A master’s in mathematics is a valuable qualification that can help you land high-paying jobs in various sectors. With the demand for mathematicians and statisticians predicted to grow in the future, a Master’s in Math will be a real asset.
Can I Get a Math Degree Online?
Yes. Many universities offer math degrees that are fully online.
What’s the Difference Between an MA in Maths and an MS in Maths?
Both MA and MS programs have many courses in common. However, master’s of science degrees focus on science, while a Master’s in Arts is more oriented towards research.
How Long Does a Master’s in Mathematics Take?
Most master’s in mathematics programs take around two years to complete. However, several programs allow you to complete your studies at your own pace, notably flexible online programs. For these programs, you may take up to five years to complete your master’s.
Key Takeaways
A master’s in mathematics online is an excellent choice for anyone with a penchant for numbers looking to advance their career. Additionally, these flexible programs are ideal for working professionals who want to pursue a graduate program, as you’ll be able to balance your work, study, and personal commitments.
Already decided on your dream program and ready to submit your application? Take a look at our complete guide to getting into grad school to help you prepare the strongest application possible.
Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.
