If you have a bachelor’s degree in math, analytics, statistics, or a similar field, pursuing one of the cheapest online master’s in mathematics can open new opportunities for your career. Whether you want to advance to new levels in your current career path or shift to a new field, these degrees provide the skills and knowledge you need.
We have created the most reliable ranking of master’s degrees in mathematics online. This list includes 33 degrees from 30 accredited institutions. All the programs are at least 80% online, creating greater convenience for your learning.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost (In-state): ~$27,300
Least Expensive In-State: University of North Carolina at Greensboro ~$10,400
Least Expensive Out-of-state: Western Illinois University ~$13,904
A master’s degree in mathematics is a challenging and time-consuming venture. While some accelerated programs can be completed in just one year, most of these programs require two years of full-time study. It’s a major commitment, so you need to make the best choice for your degree. With reliable information and resources, we can be your guide as you select the right online mathematics master’s degree.
21 Cheapest Online Master’s in Mathematics
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | (NC) | $10,400.00 $19,358.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Tarleton State University | (TX) | $11,383.00 $23,983.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | University of West Florida | (FL) | $11,538.00 $31,327.00 $11,538.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
4 | Emporia State University | (KS) | $13,368.00 $18,237.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
5 | Texas A & M University-Central Texas | (TX) | $13,696.00 $28,384.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Western Illinois University | (IL) | $13,904.00 | All Students |
7 | Youngstown State University | (OH) | $14,722.00 $15,172.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
8 | Indiana State University | (IN) | $15,400.00 $19,855.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $15,648.00 $16,960.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Troy University | (AL) | $15,675.00 | All Students |
11 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | (NC) | $16,599.00 $49,889.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
12 | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | (TX) | $17,146.00 $32,266.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | University of Idaho | (ID) | $18,630.00 | All Students |
14 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | (TN) | $21,000.00 $23,250.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
14 | University of Kansas | (KS) | $21,000.00 | All Students |
16 | Texas A & M University | (TX) | $21,288.00 $40,782.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
17 | Sam Houston State University | (TX) | $21,543.00 $36,231.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
18 | University of North Dakota | (ND) | $21,783.00 | All Students |
19 | University of Kentucky | (KY) | $23,595.00 | All Students |
20 | Kansas State University | (KS) | $24,775.00 | All Students |
21 | Colorado State University | (CO) | $25,178.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purdue University | (IN) | $28,050.00 $31,350.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $30,510.00 | All Students | |
University of Delaware | (DE) | $30,840.00 | All Students | |
Georgia Institute of Technology | (GA) | $36,210.00 | All Students | |
Michigan Technological University | (MI) | $39,630.00 | All Students | |
Rochester Institute of Technology | (NY) | $40,500.00 | All Students | |
University of Washington | (WA) | $40,616.00 | All Students | |
Johns Hopkins University | (MD) | $55,800.00 | All Students | |
Columbia University in the City of New York | (NY) | $77,915.00 | All Students |
Methodology
These rankings of online math master’s programs are based on our fall 2023 review of degrees. To calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online math degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online math degree. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: To qualify for a ranking, the online mathematics master’s program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Choose One of the Cheapest Online Master’s in Mathematics Programs?
The final decision depends on your personal interests and goals, but here are a few of the reasons people may enroll in an affordable online master’s in mathematics:
- Excellent salaries: Many careers in mathematics have strong incomes. Mathematicians have a median income of $112,110, while statisticians have a median salary of $98,920.
- A growing need: Math skills will be in high demand over the next decade. Mathematicians and statisticians should see a 30% growth between 2022 and 2032.
- Work in numerous industries: Math is a specific discipline, but after graduation you can work for nearly any industry in any area. All major industries, from manufacturing to agriculture to marketing to leisure, need experts in math and statistics.
Online Master’s in Mathematics: Program Cost
Math is all about the numbers. So it makes perfect sense to focus on the total cost of these degrees. While other factors, such as schedule, accepted transfer credits, and specializations, should be part of your decision, it helps to understand the total cost for these programs.
The average in-state price for an online math master’s degree is $27,300. If students complete the degree with a standard two-year plan, then the average cost is roughly $13,650 per year.
In this database, there are 22 programs priced below the average. This includes 14 programs with a total estimated cost under $20,000 and seven programs below $15,000. Some of these programs offer excellent prices to students from all across the country. Western Illinois University, for example, offers its Master of Science in Mathematics for less than $14,000 to all students, regardless of location.
The cheapest online master’s in mathematics in this database is the Master of Science in Applied Statistics from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. This degree is only $10,400 for in-state students. The least affordable online master’s in mathematics comes from Columbia University, an Ivy League school located in New York City. This elite institution charges $77,915 for its Master of Science in Applied Mathematics.
If you are looking for the cheapest online master’s in mathematics for you, start by searching public institutions, especially ones within your state. These generally offer the most affordable rates for an online mathematics master’s degree.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Mathematics Online Master’s?
This list holds numerous affordable options for mathematics master’s degrees. These, however, are the three most budget-friendly programs you can find:
#1. University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Master of Science in Applied Statistics
Cost: $10,400 (In-state, North Carolina)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Residents of North Carolina only pay $10,400 for this program, making it the cheapest online master’s in mathematics. While the most affordable, it still maintains a high level of academic quality with courses that lead to careers in data analytics and statistics. This program focuses on applied statistics, which studies the real-world applications of stats. This discipline is used in many industries, including health and insurance.
UNC Greensboro has created a flexible online platform that allows students from various backgrounds to start or complete a college education. It provides a high level of academic excellence with programs delivered and taught by world-class faculty. People at this online school receive the same level of support as the school’s in-person students.
#2. Tarleton State University – Master of Science in Mathematics
Cost: $11,383 (In-state, Texas)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
With a total estimated cost below $12,000, the MS in Mathematics from Tarleton State University in Texas is the second-cheapest online master’s in mathematics. The degree combines theory with analytical problem-solving to enrich a student’s overall knowledge of math and statistics. This broad degree can be used to enhance or create a career in industry, research, or education.
This online mathematics master’s degree is especially useful for aspiring teachers, namely high school and post-secondary teachers. The program prepares a student for roles as a mathematics coach, curriculum coordinator, or the leader of a math department. It’s also ideal for careers in statistics, data science, or analytics.
Tarleton State is a leader in online learning. The school developed one of the first graduate programs in agriculture and now has a large list of bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business, computer science, criminal justice, nursing, and more. It offers 100% online master’s programs, as well as asynchronous doctorate programs in education.
#3. University of West Florida – Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences
Cost: $11,538 (In-state, Florida)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Whether you want a career in statistics, mathematics, or a related field, the third cheapest online master’s in mathematics on our list provides the education you need. Taught by expert faculty, this online degree focuses on the science of math and includes matrix theory, statistical inference, statistics research, and more.
Students in this program have the option to complete a math-based thesis, a large research paper that requires years of research and preparation. There is also a non-thesis track.
The University of West Florida offers a variety of affordable master’s degrees, especially for residents of Florida. It also offers special rates to Alabama residents. The school has an accessible, high-quality online platform that benefits learners at all stages of life. West Florida has bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs, as well as certificates for professionals who want a quick boost to their knowledge and skills.
Online Mathematics Master’s: Degree Program Types
Within this list, you’ll find a variety of degrees that are similar but have key differences. One of the most important factors is the type of degree, such as a master of science, master of arts, or master of mathematics.
The most common type in this list is a master of science. Many colleges offer a Master of Science (MS) in Mathematics. These degrees are technical and focus on specific job skills. By comparison, a Master of Arts is more theory-based and broad in scope. A master of arts may include humanities and other subjects not directly connected to math. A master of mathematics is similar to an MS degree. It’s highly focused on math and generally won’t stray from the discipline.
Concentrations
While the type of degree matters, the specialty is likely more important to your career prospects. These degrees come with various focus areas that heavily influence the classes you take and what you learn. Within this list, you can find degrees with concentrations ranging from statistical science to operations research. There are programs especially focused on computational math, applied mathematics, and more.
Here are a few specializations you might choose:
- Applied mathematics: A branch that focuses on how math can be applied for everyday purposes and solve common problems.
- Applied statistics: Similar to applied mathematics, this discipline uses statistics to predict and solve various issues that occur in the real world.
- Computational math: A branch of math that deals with problems involving computers. This area is constantly changing because of the ever-evolving nature of technology.
- Operations research: A section of math that deals with problem-solving within an organization. It uses advanced formulas to calculate the best ways to manage a business or group.
- Financial mathematics: Similar to economics, this form of math focuses on mathematics in finance and banking. It may include economics theory, actuarial science, and other financial subjects.
- Mathematical science: This type uses math but takes a scientific approach to problem-solving and research. It may involve the process of hypothesis, experiment, and conclusion, just like other science disciplines.
Accreditation for Online Math Programs
Whether you are searching for the cheapest online master’s in mathematics or have no budget concerns, you need to research accreditation, a review process for the academic system.
Accreditation is important for many reasons. Not only does it indicate a quality education, degrees from accredited institutions are respected by employers and recognized by academia. If you move on a doctorate, your online math master’s must come from an accredited college or university.
Accrediting groups analyze schools and grant or deny accreditation to colleges and universities. These groups are regional bodies that cover large sections of the country. Examples include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the New England Commission of Higher Education. All the programs in this database come from institutions with accreditation from one of these regional groups.
While less common, individual programs can have programmatic accreditation. This simply means the specific degree has been reviewed by a subject-specific group. For example, journalism degrees can be accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. Math degrees, however, do not have an accrediting body. As long as the degree is from an accredited institution, it will deliver a high-quality education.
Typical Admission Requirements for Online Master’s Degrees
The admission process for a master’s degree is fairly simple, although there are more steps, documents, and requirements than you likely experienced when applying to a bachelor’s program.
Common admission requirements include:
- Minimum GPA (2.5 – 3.0 is common)
- Letters of recommendation (Usually 2-3)
- A statement of purpose
- Transcripts from all previous colleges
Each school is different, so consult the department or admissions office for specific details.
Licensing, Training, and Experience Requirements
Most math careers do not require a license, although there are exceptions. Mathematicians and statisticians do not have a licensing or certification requirement; neither do economists, operations research analysts, or data scientists.
However, if you become a math teacher at a public school, then you will need a teaching certificate. This would also require teaching-specific education, as well as testing through the state.
Math experts who deal with finances may need licensing if they sell financial products. Financial advisors, for example, need licensing.
Salary and Career Information for Math Experts
An online master’s mathematics program can lead to careers in math, data, and statistics. While the overall job pool is small, the earnings can be significant.
Mathematicians have a median income of $112,110, while the top 10% earn over $171,000 annually. The best-paid mathematicians work for professional, scientific, and technical services; these experts have a median income of $134,220. Mathematicians working for the federal government have a median salary of $119,100.
Statisticians have strong incomes as well. The median salary for this career is $98,920, while the top 10% earn over $161,000.
Virginia has the largest number and highest percentage of mathematicians. The state is also high on the list for pay: mathematicians in Virginia earn a median salary of $125,040, the fourth highest in the country. The state only trails Washington ($135,220), New York ($131,920), and California ($126,040).
Statisticians have the highest concentration of jobs in the District of Columbia. Maryland and Massachusetts come in second and third place.
Professionals with training, experience, and talent in math can expect strong earnings. Here are the median salaries for some top math-based occupations:
- College math teacher: $77,420
- Budget analyst: $82,260
- Operations research analyst: $85,720
- Financial analyst: $96,220
- Data scientist: $103,500
- Economist: $113,940
- Actuary: $113,990
A math education paves the way for a stable career as well. While the total job pool is small, mathematicians are expected to grow by 32% between 2022 and 2032; statisticians are expected to grow by 30%. For perspective, the expected job growth for all occupations is 3%. Other careers have similar expectations. Actuaries (23%) and data scientists (35%) should both see incredible growth over the next ten years.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Math Degree Program?
There are plenty of options for online master’s mathematics degrees. With so many choices, you need to take your time and research degrees that might fit your goals.
The first aspect to research is accreditation. (We saved you a step – All the programs in this database are from accredited schools!)
Then make sure the degree’s focus fits your career goals. Mathematics is a broad academic discipline with many specializations. There are degrees in applied mathematics, mathematical science, statistics, operations research, and more. What kind of career do you want?
Next, research the total cost. Remember to look at fees and other expenses, as well as transfer credits, so you can find a program that meets your budget. We help you here too; our rankings include total tuition and general fees.
Finally, research the platform and delivery method. Some online programs require some in-person attendance or have set class times, so make sure the format fits your schedule.
With these steps and information from GetEducated, you can find the ideal degree. With degree rankings, program information, and details about online schools, we can help you make the right choice!