25 Best Affordable Online Mathematics/ Statistics Education Degree Programs (Master's) 2020

Math and statistics are an important part of many fields, so the teaching of them is important in providing a complete STEM education, from K-12 levels, right through college.

Basic math, especially, is an important skill in many fields, with some also requiring advanced knowledge — in accounting, business, finance, STEM disciplines and more. This review list looks at the most affordable online master’s degrees that prepare students for teaching of math and/or statistics at some level. In the case of strictly math or statistics degree programs (such as an MA or MS in (Applied) Mathematics or Statistics), a master’s qualifies the graduate to teach at least at the community college level, and potentially at the four-year college level. For master’s programs that are specifically designed as teacher education, these tend to be MEd, MAEd, MAT or similar, with a choice of tracks or concentrations specifying the intended teaching level.

Related Resource: What is a Statistician?

Careers in Mathematics/Statistics

Those master’s programs listed below that are broadest in scope often qualify graduates to also seek careers in paths outside of teaching. Considering the that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) lists the roles of Mathematicians and Statisticians, collectively, to have an expected 33% job growth between 2016 and 2026, a master’s in mathematics or statistics — whether for teaching or otherwise — provides alternate or supplementary career options.

Some of the potential careers or career areas for graduates of the referenced online master’s degree programs, below, collectively include:

actuarial science
air-traffic scheduler
community college instructor
consulting firms
district level mathematics specialist
economics analyst
elementary level math teacher
government agencies
high school educator
insurance data analyst
logistics analyst
mathematical modeler
mathematician, general
mathematics teacher
middle grades math teacher
middle school educator
population growth analyst
research industries
secondary school math teacher
social problems analyst
statistician, general
universities

Related Resource: What is the Average Salary of a Statistician?

Ranking Methodology

Data for this article is combined from the NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) CollegeNavigator website and the IPEDS DataCenter. This data is maintained by the U.S. Department of Education and is subject to change. We use the most recently available data at the time of article preparation. Verify with each college that the information indicated is correct before you apply, as program data is also subject to change.

Step 1: Query NCES for graduate degrees in “Mathematics, General,” “Statistics, General,” and “Mathematics Education” — public and private nonprofit institutions. NCES does not distinguish graduate program offerings as being master’s or doctorate.
Step 2: Filter out non-U.S. listings such as for protectorates including Guam, Puerto Rico, etc.
Step 3: Query IPEDS DataCenter data for U.S. institutions offering a distance master’s degree in the same subjects.
Step 4: Combine the two data sets, sort by average graduate cost (average in-state graduate tuition plus mandatory grad fees
Step 5: Manually verify that each college has at least one online master’s degree in the above topics

SUMMARY RANKING OF TOP 10 Best Affordable Online Mathematics/ Statistics Education Degree Programs:

Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Montana State University
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Western Governors University
East Carolina University
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
North Carolina Central University
Indiana University-East
Indiana State University
Sam Houston State University

Most Affordable Online Mathematics or Statistics Education Master’s Degrees

25. Faulkner University

Montgomery, Alabama

Website

Faulkner University (Faulkner, est. 1942) is a private, nonprofit institution that is a member of the Churches of Christ. The university integrates “Biblical principles and Christian values” into its academic offering, serving students at four campuses/extended campuses, plus online. The student population is diverse (over 49% minority students), and leans to female (61%). Faulkner offers associate’s through doctorate level degree programs. Its online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction has one relevant concentration: Secondary 6-12 Mathematics Pedagogy. (Additional concentrations are non-math-related.) This is a 30-credit program consisting of 11 courses (including a 0-credit orientation course), with new students entering every 5 weeks. Courses are taken one at a time, and example courses are: Curriculum Design and Instructional Methods; Differentiated Instruction for Diverse Learners; Advanced Classroom Management; Educational Technology. A few of the career opportunities for graduates of this program include: Curriculum and Instructor Designer; Education Coordinator; Education Specialist; K-12 Lead Teacher.

In-state: $10,750 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $10,750 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 3,350

#grads: 678

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

24. University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas

Website University of Kansas (KU, est. 1865) is a public institution that governed by the Kansas Board of Regents. The university serves students on this campus – regarded as one of America’s most beautiful – and four others, plus online. KU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 400 programs in total. Its 100% online Master of Science in Applied Statistics and Analytics (MSASA) is a 30-credit program delivered through the online division of the Edwards/Overland Park campus of KU. It is available with three Emphasis options (Statistics, Analytics, Data Science) – two of which are also available as online graduate certificate programs. Example required and elective courses include: Professionalism, Ethics andLeadership in the Statistical Sciences; SAS Programming; Introduction to Programming andApplied Statistics in R; Data Visualization and Acquisition. Because of the breadth of use for applied statistics, graduates of this program can find careers not just in education (community or 4-year college) but also in accounting, business, finance, healthcare, marketing and more. Alternatives: online graduate certificates in Applied Statistics or Applied Data Science.

In-state: $10,704 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $23,718 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 27,625

#grads: 8,287

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

23. University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, Iowa

Website University of Northern Iowa (UNI, est. 1876) is a public institution governed by the Iowa Board of Regents. The university was originally established as a teacher training school on the grounds of an orphanage. It is a top school for veterans, being recognized by Military Times and Victory Media. UNI offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs – over 90 majors in total. Its Master of Arts in Mathematics (MAM) has no fewer than three teaching Emphasis options, each for a different study level, from elementary school up to community college: (1) online Elementary and Middle Grades (K-8) (EMG); hybrid Secondary Teaching Emphasis (ST); (2) blended Community College Teaching Emphasis (CCT). (A fourth general, non-teaching emphasis is available on-campus, with thesis and non-thesis tracks.) The emphasis names reveal the possible teaching career paths. The emphases which have thesis and non-thesis tracks usually require more credits to be completed for the thesis option. Example courses include: Differential Geometry; History of Mathematics; Theory of Numbers. Note that courses in Fall and Spring semesters are delivered online through Blackboard eLearning.

In-state: $10,193 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,667 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 11,861

#grads: 1,900

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

22. Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, Arizona

Website Northern Arizona University (NAU, est. 1899) is a public institution governed by the Arizona Board of Regents. In addition to this campus, the university also serves students at dozens of community campuses statewide, plus online. NAU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Master of Science in Mathematics Education (MSME) is a 37-credit (minimum) blended program designed for advancing the teaching of secondary school level mathematics by supplementing knowledge of the ways to think mathematically. (Teacher certification is separate from the MSME.) While coursework is primarily online, the curriculum includes a collaborative component and a comprehensive exam. Example courses include: Problem Solving: Theory and Practice; Reflections On/In Math Education; History and Philosophy of Mathematics Education; Technology in Mathematics Education. Potential teaching careers for graduates of the MSME include: community college instructor; district level mathematics specialist; high school educator; middle school educator. On-campus alternatives: 37-credit MS Mathematics (incl. 6cr Thesis work); 32-credit MS Statistics; 18-credit graduate certificate in Teaching Introductory Community College Mathematics; 15-credit graduate certificate in Applied Statistics.

In-state: $10,001 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $18,619 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 31,051

#grads: 3,967

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

21. University of Missouri-Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

Website University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou, est. 1839) is a public institution and a member of the University of Missouri System. Mizzou’s existence is tied to Thomas Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase Territory and his thoughts on education, making it the first public institution west of the mighty Mississippi. Mizzou offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 100 programs online alone. Its 100% online Master of Education in Mathematics Education (MEd-ME) is a 30-credit program delivered by the Department of Learning, Teaching and Curriculum (College of Education). The program is designed for licensed individuals currently teaching and seeking leadership positions. The program is for teaching at any grade level, but has focus areas for elementary or secondary education. The curriculum also covers several facets of teaching, including “strategies for incorporating technology into mathematics instruction.” While this MEd requires no campus visits in general, some elective courses may require in-person meetings. Students typically take one or two courses per semester, allowing program completion within two years. Example courses include: Problems in Curriculum and Instruction; Contemporary Curriculum Issues in Mathematics Education; Teaching and Learning Number/Operations Advanced; Technology and Mathematics Education. Completion of a Master’s project (two courses = 4 credits) is required.

In-state: $9,828 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $24,847 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 30,844

#grads: 7,045

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

20. Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, Ohio

Website Shawnee State University (SSU, est. 1986) is a public institution. The university has an open admission policy for undergrads, and serves students on-campus and online. SSU offers associate’s through master’s level degrees – over 80 in total – plus certificate programs. Its online Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences (MSMS) requires 36 credits (14 courses) and has a 27-month timeline. It is designed for individuals seeking careers in one of several teaching areas, including: advanced math in high school (grades 9-12), including dual-credit/College Credit Plus courses; community college or university level math/statistics. Graduates are also prepared for further studies such as a graduate program. The curriculum is divided into three categories: Core (15 credits); Mathematical Electives (12cr); Applied Research (9cr). Example courses include: Abstract Algebra; Mathematical Analysis; Foundations of Geometry; Number Theory.

In-state: $9,767 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $22,810 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 3,582

#grads: 176

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

19. Removed by editor

18. Ball State University

Muncie, Indiana

Website Ball State University (BSU, est. 1918) is a public institution. Originally a teacher’s college, the university – a Best in the Midwest college and a Green School, both according to Princeton Review – has earned two innovation awards, and has had both an increase in undergrad applications and graduation rate in recent years. It served a significant percentage (20%) of freshmen students from “underrepresented populations” in 2017 and 2018. BSU offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 300 programs in total, and over 70 of which are online. It has two relevant programs: (1) a 30-credit online Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (MAME); (2) an online MA Foundational Mathematics Teaching in the Community College (MA-FMTCC). The MAME program provides a choice of three concentrations: (1) For Elementary and Middle School Teachers; (2) For Secondary School Teachers; (3) For Elementary and Middle School Specialists. Applicants need to have a teaching license in “elementary, middle school, or special education,” and one or more years experience. Sample courses include: Reasoning for Elementary, Middle School, and Foundational Mathematics Teachers; Number Concepts and Number Theory for Teachers; Geometry and Measurement for Elementary, Middle School, and Foundational Mathematics Teachers. The FMTCC program, as the degree name implies, is for people planning to teach math at the community college level. Alternatives: an online MA Secondary Education with a Concentration in Dual Credit Teaching Credential has over 5 content areas, including mathematics.

In-state: $9,216 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $21,834 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 22,513

#grads: 5,509

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

17. Georgia State University

Atlanta, Georgia

Website Georgia State University (GSU, est. 1913) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Georgia. The university serves students on seven campuses plus online, and is regarded as an innovative university (#2 nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report). While it is only #10 for diversity, it is #1 in the state (public or non-profit) for number of undergrad degrees earned by African-American students, and also for number of graduate degrees earned by African-Americans, Asians and Latinos (Diverse: Issues in Higher Education). GSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees – over 250 programs in 10 fields – plus certificate programs. Its online Master of Education (MEd) in Mathematics Education (ME) is a 36-credit program delivered by the College of Education and Human Development. It is designed for early- and mid-career mathematics teachers who will teach at the middle or secondary school level. Example courses include: Multicultural Education; Social and Cultural Foundations of Education; Methods of Research in Education. Students can choose from several capstone options: master’s research thesis; master’s action research project; master’s project. Alternatives: a partially online MEd Elementary Education with STEM cohort-only endorsement (10 or more students required) or Kindergarten through 5th grade mathematics endorsement (open); an on-campus MAT Mathematics Education; an on-campus MS Mathematics.

In-state: $9,148 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $24,646 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 32,816

#grads: 7,046

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

16. Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, Texas

Website Texas A and M University-College Station (TAMU, est. 1871) is a public institution and a member of the Texas A&M University System. Texas’ first public college/university, it serves students at this main campus, two branch campuses, various learning centers, and online. It is one of the largest institutions nationally, both by population and campus size, and 25% of undergrads are first-generation students. TAMU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 400 academic programs in total. The College of Science has two online master’s degrees: (1) Master’s of Science in Mathematics (MSM); (2) MS Statistics (MSS). Both of these master’s programs are 36 credits and require no thesis. The MSM is intended for those who want to teach math at the K-12 or community college level. Example courses: Numerical Methods in DE; Intro to Classical Analysis; History of Mathematics. The MSS has a qualifying exam after the completion of 15 credits, and offers three certificate options: Biostatistics; Data Mining with SAS; Applied Emphasis. The curriculum is divided into four parts: Required; Emphasis; Electives; Consulting and Project. Graduates of this program are qualified to teach math/statistics at the community or 4-year college level.

In-state: $9,065 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $19,585 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 67,929

#grads: 14,864

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

15. University of West Florida

Pensacola, Florida

Website University of West Florida (UWF, est. 1963) is a public institution and a member of the State University System of Florida. It serves students at this campus, various regional learning centers, and online. UWF offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 academic programs in total. Its Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences (MSMS) is a 30- to 31-credit program designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in math, stats or a related field, and who are interested in a career in teaching, science, business, banking/finance/investment, government, insurance, etc., or to first follow up with a doctorate program. It has both Thesis (6cr) and Non-Thesis (6-7cr) track options. Courses are delivered online but are synchronous, requiring online students to attend simultaneously with on-campus students. Core courses include Matrix Theory and Statistical Inference. Non-Thesis track course options include a choice of Mathematics Research or Statistics Research. Alternatives: UWF also has an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with three Specializations/cognates (Elementary Education, Middle Level Education, Secondary Education) that include the teaching of math and other subjects at those grade levels (e.g., not exclusively math education).

In-state: $9,062 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $24,894 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 13,040

#grads: 3,038

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

14. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website Liberty University (Liberty, est. 1971) is a private, nonprofit, evangelical Christian institution. The university, founded by evangelist Reverend Jerry Falwell, serves students worldwide, incorporating a Christian foundation into its academic programs. Liberty offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 600 programs in total, nearly 70 of which are online master’s degrees. Its Masters in Education (MEd) with a Specialization in Math Specialist Endorsement is a 36-credit program delivered by the School of Education. While coursework is 100% online, there are optional in-person intensives. Up to 50% of credits can be transferred, otherwise the timeline is expected to be 1.5 years on average. The program is designed for working teachers who are interested in becoming a program specialist/consultant or is seeking school administration roles – in any of K to 12 levels. Teaching at the community college level is another option. For students still working on obtaining licensure, an internship (3cr) will be required as part of the degree work. Example core courses include: Learning Theory; Foundations forEducational Leaders; Curriculum Development (Elementary/Secondary). Alternatives: an online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with Specialization of Elementary Education, which includes the teaching of math.

In-state: $8,723 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $8,723 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 75,044

#grads: 29,290

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

13. University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Website University of Arkansas (UARK, est. 1871) is a public institution and a member of the University of Arkansas System. Situated near the Ozark Mountains, it is one of the top public research universities (top 2.7% in research activity) and emphasizes a students-first focus. Notable faculty include former President Bill Clinton and former Senator Hillary Clinton, both of whom taught law at UARK. UARK offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 230 programs in total. Its online Master of Arts in Secondary Mathematics (SMTH) is a 30-credit, GRE-exempt program delivered by the Mathematical Sciences department (Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences). It combines math and education courses, and is designed for licensed teachers who seek to teach high school math or statistics, including AP calculus and statistics. The curriculum consists of four core math courses and a choice of two education courses from a selection of six. Professional development experiences are also available. Example courses include: Abstract Algebra with Connections to School Mathematics; Teaching Mathematics; Curriculum Development; Instructional Theory.

In-state: $8,571 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,792 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 27,558

#grads: 4,514

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

12. Oklahoma State University

Stillwater, Oklahoma

Website Oklahoma State University (OSU, est. 1890) is a public institution and a member of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. The university promotes diversity and inclusion, while the campus earned the “America’s Healthiest Campus” designation, and has been recognized for various sustainability issues. OSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 320 programs in total. Its online Master of Science in Applied Statistics (MSAS) is a 35-credit program with no thesis, report or comprehensive exam. It is not intended for students who may want to follow up with a doctorate, but does qualify graduates to teach math/statistics topics at the community college level. The curriculum is divided into eight required courses and a choice of elective courses. Example courses include: Mathematical Statistics; SAS and R Programming; Experimental Design. There is also a creative component course with a variety of options, including dataset analysis and reporting.

In-state: $8,197 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $23,219 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 25,295

#grads: 4,303

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

11. Emporia State University

Emporia, Kansas

Website Emporia State University (ESU, est. 1863) is a public institution and a member of the Kansas State University System. The university has a history of teacher education since its founding, and one of the oldest public college/institutions in the state. It serves students on two ESU campuses, several community colleges, and online. ESU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its online 32-34 credit MS Mathematics (MSM) program is a 34-credit (32 on campus) program delivered by the Department of Mathematics and Economics. The MSM has thesis and non-thesis tracks and combines pure and applied math topics, including analysis, algebra, statistics, etc. Example courses include: Topology; Vector Spaces; Mathematical Statistics. Graduates of the program can teach at the community college level, or pursue other math-related career opportunities, as well as advanced studies (doctorate). Alternatives: an online, 18-credit graduate certificate in Mathematics (four required and two elective courses), designed for those needing grad coursework to teach at the community college or dual-credit high school level; an online, 34-credit MS Instructional Specialist (MSIS) – Elementary STEM Concentration (designed for teachers of STEM subjects, including math).

In-state: $8,027 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,867 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 5,732

#grads: 2,127

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

10. Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

Website Sam Houston State University (SHSU, est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. One of the oldest higher education institutions in the state, it is a “Doctoral Research University” serving student on two campuses/learning centers and online, and emphasizes that the same faculty teaches both delivery methods. Its motto (The Measure of a Life is its Service) is manifested over SHSU’s offering, including service learning and volunteering opportunities. It is reflected by the designation of “Community Engaged University” (Carnegie Commission on Higher Education), and by its recognition of community service by the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. The university claims #1 statewide for placing students in the workforce within a year of graduation. Other milestones include having half of undergrads being first-generation students, and #7 in the country for graduation rates of African-American students. Designated a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, SHSU is also recognized by U.S. News & World Report in several categories of their 2019 Best Colleges review list, including: National Universities; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Computer Information Technology Programs; Business Programs; Best Online MBA Programs. SHSU notable alumni include journalist/news anchor Dan Rather and filmmaker Richard Linklater (Slacker; Dazed and Confused; School of Rock). SHSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees (over 130 in total, including 40+ online), plus certificate programs. Its blended Master of Arts in Mathematics (MAM) is a 36-credit, non-thesis program designed for teachers of secondary-school-level mathematics planning to teach dual-credit math or seek a career role as a curriculum specialist. Graduates can also pursue a doctorate program afterwards. The MAM curriculum breaks down into core courses (Mathematics, 12 credits), electives (9cr), an approved minor (12cr) and a reading/research course (3cr). Example courses include: Research Project In Math Education; Seminar in Algebra for Teachers; Seminar in Geometry for Teachers. Alternatives: SHSU also has an on-campus MS Mathematics, on-campus MA Statistics program and a primarily on-campus MA Mathematics Education program.

In-state: $7,575 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $15,045 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 20,938

#grads: 2,522

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

9. Indiana State University

Terre Haute, Indiana

Website Indiana State University (ISU, est. 1865) is a public institution. In addition to providing academic excellence, it focuses on helping students become not just successful in career endeavors, but to become community leaders. The university has earned recognition not just for its academic offering but also for its community service, receiving a place in the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. College review lists that recognize ISU include those from Forbes Magazine, Princeton Review (Best in the Midwest), Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report (2019: National Universities; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Business Programs). Notable ISU alumni include: NBA hall-of-famer great Larry Bird; Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi (slain at a Saudi Arabian consulate in Turkey in 2018). ISU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its online Master of Science in Mathematics (MSM) is a 33-credit, synchronous program requiring real-time online class attendance. When taken part-time, this program can be completed in 3-5 years, or two years full-time. The curriculum consists of Research (3-6 credits), Mathematics Core (12cr) and Electives (18cr). Example core courses include: Topology; Mathematical Modeling; Graph Theory. The culminating experience is an oral exam based on a student research project. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue a doctorate for further studies, or seek one of many math-focused careers, including: accountant; actuary; banker; data analyst; statistician; teacher. Some of these positions may require additional education and/or testing, though students will be immediately qualified to teach math-related subjects at the community or 4-year college level.

In-state: $7,472 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $14,474 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 13,763

#grads: 2,180

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

8. Indiana University-East

Richmond, Indiana

Website Indiana University-East (IUE, est. 1971) is a public institution and a member of the Indiana University (IU) System. The university serves students at this regional campus, off-campus learning sites and online. It offers the prestige of an IU education, with the advantages of a small-college atmosphere, emphasizing a focus on students, providing real-life experiences to supplement coursework. Forbes Magazine, Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report (2019: Regional Universities Midwest) all recognize the university’s academic offering in their college review lists. Notable IUE faculty include Fulbright Scholar Joanne Passet, a U.S. Women’s History expert. IUE offers bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 50 programs in total. Its Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics (MAT) is a hybrid or online, 36-credit program combining mathematics and education courses. It has two track options – each 18 credits – with one for pre-license students and the other for licensed teachers: (1) Leads to Teacher Certification (hybrid); (2) Professional Development for Teachers (online). Example core courses (18 credits) include: Basic Number Theory; Markets and Asset Pricing; Analysis of Numerical Methods. Track 1’s second year (Summer start) is an 18-credit teaching internship conducted in-person, whereas Track 2’s second year consists of four courses (18cr). The latter allows for an internship teaching at the college level, to earn some of those 18 credits. Career opportunities for graduates of the MAT include teaching at the community or 4-year college level, or dual-credit courses for high school students.

In-state: $7,453 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $16,737 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 3,490

#grads: 198

Has housing: No
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

7. North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina

Website North Carolina Central University (NCCU, est. 1910) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. Designated a Historically Black College/University (HBCU), it serves students on campus and online, and is regarded by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine as a top 100 producer of minority degrees (2017). It also has recognition on college review lists from Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck Colleges in the Southeast) and U.S. News & World Report (2019: Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Top Public Schools, Regional Universities South). NCCU counts amongst its notable alumni: Atlanta’s first African-American mayor, Maynard Jackson; fashion journalist André Leon Talley; and comedienne/actress Kim Coles (Living Single, In Living Color). NCCU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Master of Science in Mathematics (MSM) is available in a general concentration, or with Data Science or Computational and Engineering Mathematics (Computational Science) concentrations. Areas of focus in the curriculum include: Analysis, Bioinformatics , Cryptography, Data Science, Fluid Dynamics, Optimization, Topology, and more. The expectation is that students in this program may come from diverse educational backgrounds, including but not limited to: biomedical engineering, healthcare, networking, robotics, etc. Students gain skills in computational techniques, advanced quantitative methods, and overall mathematical problem solving. Potential careers for graduates of this program include: teaching math at the community college level; computer consulting; data science/statistical analysis and more. As well, graduates could pursue further study (doctorate).

In-state: $7,411 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,365 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 8,097

#grads: 1,742

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

6. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

Website University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC, est. 1946) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. The university is proud of its diversity, which includes about 1/3 ethnic minority students. In addition to delivering an education based on competitive programs to those who attend, it emphasizes a commitment to multiple initiatives for the needs of the greater Charlotte region. The university appears in a number of college review lists published by the likes of Forbes Magazine, Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report (2019: Top Public Schools; National Universities; Business Programs; Engineering Programs – schools with a doctorate; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs). Civil rights activist and former NAACP head Benjamin Chavis, once an assistant to Martin Luther King Jr., is amongst UNCC’s notable alumni. UNCC offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs, including over 60 master’s programs. Its Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) and its MEd Elementary Education (EE) are both 100% online (course delivery), offer part-time options, and require 33 credits for completion. The CI program is designed for experienced elementary educators. It has multiple concentration options, two of which are math-related: Middle Grades Mathematics (6-9); Secondary Education Mathematics (9-12). The EE program also has several concentration options, one of which is math-related: Elementary Mathematics. It leads to an advanced teaching license and to careers such as “instructional leaders, advanced practitioners, and global educators.”

In-state: $7,357 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,791 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 29,317

#grads: 5,403

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

5. East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

Website East Carolina University (ECU, est. 1907) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System. The university serves students at this campus and nearby learning sites. With 33% minority students, it is recognized by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine with a HEED Award (2018 and previous year) for being a Top College for Diversity. ECU has earned a place in multiple college review lists, including some published by: Forbes Magazine; Princeton Review (multiple categories, including Green Colleges, Best Colleges South); U.S. News & World Report (2019: Top Public Schools, National Universities, Business Programs, Engineering Programs – schools with no doctorate); Washington Monthly (Best Bang for Your Buck); Victory Media (Military Friendly School 2018); Social Mobility Index. Notable ECU alumni include: Vince McMahon and Linda McMahon, owners of WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment); and actress/producer Sandra Bullock. ECU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – including over 120 programs online, about two dozen of which are master’s level. Its online Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (MAEd) is a 36-credit program consisting of 15 credits of core courses (5) and 21cr of Concentration courses. While the program is designed for people who want to teach mathematics anywhere in the K to 12 range, there are three concentration options: Elementary concentration (Grades K-6); Middle school concentration (Grades 6-9); High school concentration (Grade 9–12). All three of these share the same group of “Mathematics for K-12 teachers” course choices totaling nine credits, as well as concentration specific course choices totaling 12 credits. Example courses are: Geometry for Teachers; Teaching and Learning of Geometry; Teaching with Mathematical Modeling. Admitted students must have teaching certification but do not need teaching experience. Alternative: ECU offers an on-campus MA Mathematics program.

In-state: $7,270 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $20,419 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 29,131

#grads: 5,866

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

4. Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, Utah

Website Western Governors University (WGU, est. 1997) is a private, nonprofit institution. The university – the brainchild of a group of U.S. governors – offers only distance programs and enjoys a milestone in being first to offer all competency-based bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The more quickly a program is completed, the lower the overall cost of tuition, based on 6-month terms. Fast Company and U.S. News & World Report have both recognized the university for being an innovative institution. A significant number of WGU notable alumni are members of the U.S. Military. WGU offers bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It has two relevant online programs in math education, for the K to 12 level: (1) a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education (MAME); (2) an MA Teaching (MAT) in Mathematics Education. The MAME is designed for licensed teachers and has three tracks: K–6; Middle Grades (5-9); Secondary (5-12). It consists of 10 courses, including a capstone, and has a 6-25 month timeline. The MAT is an endorsement program for not-yet-licensed students and has two tracks: Middle Grades; Secondary. It consists of 21 courses and has a 24-month timeline. Because the MAT is for unlicensed students, it has a greater focus on education courses than the MAME.

In-state: $6,790 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $6,790 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 98,627

#grads: 26,242

Has housing: No
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

3. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, Texas

Website University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV, est. 2013) is a public institution that is a member of the University of Texas System. A Minority Serving Institution (MSI) formed from the merger of two former UT schools, it serves students at eight campuses (including the original Brownsville and Pan American campuses) and teaching sites, plus online. The university earned recognition in the form of rankings on college review lists published by Forbes Magazine and U.S. News & World Report (2019: National Universities, Business Programs, Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs, Engineering Programs – schools with no doctorate). UTRGV counts many professional athletes (PGA, MLB, NBA, etc.) amongst its notable alumni, including retired basketballer and Olympic Gold medalist Lucious Jackson. UTRGV offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction with a Specialization in Elementary Math and Science Education is fully online and consists of 32 credits taking at least 10 months. The program is designed for those who want to teach elementary school level mathematics, either in the classroom or other settings, with one of the following possible career roles: curriculum specialist, educational consultant, instructional coordinator and mentor, peer coach, policy developer, teacher educator. Courses (10 total) are seven weeks in length and three credits each. Example courses include: Foundations of Learning, Cognition and Human Development; Mathematics and Science Education Project; Teaching and Learning Geometric Concepts.

In-state: $6,719 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $14,189 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 27,809

#grads: 3,589

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

2. Montana State University

Bozeman, Montana

Website Montana State University (MSU, est. 1893) is a public institution that is a member of the Montana University System. Serving students at the Bozeman campus and online, it is the largest research university in the state. The campus is designated a Tree Campus USA (seven consecutive years) by Arbor Day Foundation, and the town is rated a Best Place to Live (Money Magazine 2017). Other milestones for MSU include having the most Goldwater Scholars regionally, being the #1 public university in the state (Forbes Magazine). U.S. News & World Report also ranked MSU in several categories of their 2019 Best Colleges review list, including: Top Public Schools; National Universities. Notable faculty/workshop leaders at MSU include actors Bill Pullman and Peter Fonda, and writers Richard Brautigan and Robert Pirsig. MSU offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – including eight online master’s degrees. Its online Master of Science in Mathematics – Mathematics Education option (MSMME) is a 30-credit program designed for those who want to teach high school mathematics. Sample courses include: Algebraic Thinking and Number Sense in the Middle Grades; Language of Mathematics for Teachers; Learning Theories in Mathematics for Teachers; Curriculum Design. The capstone experience for the MSMME is a presentation of a portfolio, either as a formal paper or an electronic presentation (described further on the school Web site).

In-state: $6,378 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $18,458 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 16,613

#grads: 1,961

Has housing: Yes
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Related Resource: What is Biostatistics?

1. Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies

Fayette, Missouri

Website Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies (CMU-CGES) is a division of Central Methodist University (CMU, est. 1854), which is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It serves students of all faiths at this campus (National Historic District) and learning centers in the state and region, plus online. The university emphasizes social responsibility and ethical leadership, amongst other characteristics. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the university in their 2019 Best Colleges review list in several categories, including: Regional Colleges Midwest; Best Value Schools. Notable CMU alumni include: popular League of Legends game streamer Tyler Steinkamp; actor/ comedian Bill Chott (Wizards of Waverly Place); and composer/conductors David Holsinger and Claude Smith. CMU offers associate’s through master’s level degree programs. Its Master of Science in Mathematics (MSM) is a hybrid program with coursework fully online. This a non-thesis program requiring 32 credits; however, it does require on-campus presence at the end for a written and oral exit exam (exceptions possible, on a case-by-case basis). Topic area is theoretical and computational mathematics, and example courses include: Mathematical Statistics; Modern Algebra; Introduction to Complex Variables; Topology. Graduates of the program may choose further studies (e.g., doctorate degree), or find career opportunities such as teaching math, or in other roles in government or industry.

In-state: $6,100 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

Out-of-state: $6,100 (avg. grad tuition+fees)

#students: 3,999

#grads: 332

Has housing: No
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Related Resource: What is Geostatistics?

By AS Staff

Related Resource: What is Actuarial Science?

Other Rankings of Interest:

25 Best Affordable Online Mathematics/ Statistics Education Degree Programs (Master’s) 2020