Online Math Degree Rankings, Salaries and Courses
Earning an online math education degree can launch a fulfilling, and well-paying career as a math teacher, instructional coordinator, or mathematician. Math education students learn the philosophies and theories of education, best practices for the classroom, the fundamentals of pure math, and age-appropriate strategies for teaching math. According to the U.S. Department of Education, math education is a high-need area in many states, meaning math teachers often have more opportunities than other educators.
Students pursuing a bachelor's in math education online can take courses while working and caring for a family. These learners complete practicums, classroom observations, and student-teaching assignments at approved locations near their homes. Since many school districts face a shortage of math teachers, generous financial aid packages can help pay most, or all, the cost of an online colleges bachelor's in math education.
How to Choose the Best Online Math Education Program
Students choosing a school at which to pursue a bachelor's degree in math education should consider factors including cost, reputation, accreditation, program requirements, faculty, and logistics. Students should also select a regionally accredited institution to ensure employers will recognize their degree. Travel considerations and other practical limitations are also important. Ultimately, prospective students should choose the program that best aligns with their practical needs and academic goals.
What Can I Do With a Math Education Major Besides Teach in a K-12 School?
An online math education degree can prepare students for classroom teaching and for other education-related careers, such as instructional coaching, curriculum development, and tutoring. Some students teach for a few years before becoming accountants or actuaries, while others pursue graduate education and teach at the college level. Others work in specialized private schools, such as Montessori, Waldorf, or classical schools.
Will I Need to Do Student Teaching If I'm Earning a Bachelor's in Math Education Online?
Any student pursuing teacher licensure through a traditional route must complete student teaching. Learners pursuing an online bachelor's degree in math education often complete student teaching at an approved school near their home. This approach requires diligence from both the student and the lead teacher.
How Can I Do Math Classroom Observations If I'm Studying Online?
Some education courses require students to observe a math classroom, and some schools require learners to observe several classrooms. Most online programs allow students to conduct observations at local schools. Online learners contact schools and set up the appointments with approval from their professor.
What Are the Best Courses to Choose for My Electives?
Like most other undergraduate programs, an online math education degree includes free electives. Some students take easy courses to boost their GPA. Others enroll in subjects that interest them. Taking electives in hard sciences or social sciences that overlap with math, such as physics or economics, can be a good choice for math education majors.
What Background Should I Look for in Faculty Who Are Teaching in a Math Education Bachelor's Degree Online?
Three factors establish the background of a good math education professor: classroom experience, formal education, and depth of research. The best professors have spent time teaching math classrooms; hold a terminal degree such as an Ed.D. or a Ph.D.; and have published several articles or books on pure mathematics, math education, or teaching.
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What Courses Can Be Taken for an Online Math Education Degree?
An online math education degree requires coursework in general education subjects, pure mathematics, educational theory and practice, and elective subjects. Some education courses cover general pedagogical topics, while others focus on topics for math educators. In addition to classroom work, math education students often complete practicums, observations, and student-teaching experiences. Although each school's curriculum is different, the courses below are common in many math education programs.
Mathematics for Teachers
Students in this course gain fundamental math concepts and skills. The course reintroduces prospective teachers to arithmetic, numeration, and problem solving. This course is often the earliest math education course in the curriculum.Technology in the Educational Setting
Students access the latest educational software and hardware. Learners consider how to use technology in light of various educational philosophies and learning theories.Multicultural Education
Students in this upper-level education course explore how culture influences learning. Students consider diversity of language, race, culture, ethnicity, economics, and intellectual backgrounds.College Algebra
In this introductory course, students learn about polynomials, inequalities, and linear and quadratic equations. They also study logarithmic and exponential functions. This course serves as the foundation for other pure math courses.Statistics
This course introduces collegiate-level statistics and covers topics such as the normal curve, displaying and describing data, regression, statistical inference, and probability. Students learn to test hypotheses with practical applications.
How Much Can You Make in a Math Education Career?
Many math education graduates teach at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels. Some graduates begin their careers as classroom teachers before becoming administrators or teacher educators. Others become mathematicians. As the table below illustrates, annual median salaries in the field range from $57,000-$100,000. Most careers in education or mathematical science are growing, so math education majors can enter a field with above-average salaries and consistent Job Growth 2016-2026. Of course, no degree guarantees a specific career or salary, but the table below includes a few typical math education careers and the corresponding median salaries.
Math Education Career
| Career |
Postsecondary Median Annual Salary |
Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029) |
Description |
| Mathematical Science Teachers |
$84,710 |
9.4% |
Postsecondary math teachers work in community colleges, universities, and liberal arts colleges. They plan and deliver lectures, grade evaluations, and counsel students. They may also sponsor their institution's mathematics club. Many college professors conduct research in math, education, or mathematics education and present their findings in publications and at conferences. |
| Secondary School Teachers |
$59,170 |
7.5% |
High school teachers prepare lessons, conduct classroom activities, manage student behavior, and evaluate academic performance. They often sponsor after-school clubs, provide one-on-one counseling and tutoring, and sit on school committees. Math teachers may help lead extracurricular activities such as a robotics program or a competitive business team. Classroom teachers spend most of their day instructing students and complete preparatory work after the school day ends. |
| Middle School Teachers |
$57,720 |
7.5% |
Middle school teachers instruct students in grades five through nine. These teachers prepare lessons, deliver lectures, oversee classroom projects, manage student behavior, and evaluate learner performance. They may meet one on one with students throughout the day, sponsor math-related clubs, and watch hallways and detention rooms. Middle school teachers often prepare lessons and grade assignments during the evenings. |
Source: BLS
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Math Education Programs
Higher education can be costly, but there are many ways for students to pay for an online bachelor's degree in math education. While student loans are common, borrowers have to repay those loans with interest on a first-year teacher's salary. Grants and scholarships are more valuable, since students do not have to pay them back. Some financial aid packages cover most or all of a student's expenses.
Scholarships for Math Education
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
AFCEA STEM Teacher Scholarships |
$2,500-$5,000 |
AFCEA is an information-exchange agency for individuals pursuing a graduate degree or a teaching license in a STEM-related field. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in a STEM field; must have a minimum 3.5 GPA; and must submit a transcript, a resume, and letters of reference. |
Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Course Work Scholarships |
$2,500-$5,000 |
AFCEA is an information-exchange agency for individuals pursuing a graduate degree or a teaching license in a STEM-related field. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in a STEM field; must have a minimum 3.5 GPA; and must submit a transcript, a resume, and letters of reference. |
TEACH Grant |
Up to $4,000 |
This federal grant supports students who plan to teach in high-need fields and low-income areas. Recipients must teach in a high-need subject, such as math education, in an approved area for four years of the first eight years after graduation. Recipients who do not complete this requirement must refund a portion of their TEACH grant through a direct, unsubsidized loan. |
NILRR Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship |
$1,000 |
The National Institute for Labor Relations Research sponsors this scholarship, which recognizes three Michigan teachers. Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate education majors at any accredited U.S. institution. Applicants must demonstrate scholarship and an interest in teacher union issues. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay and a transcript demonstrating academic potential. |
NFB Blind's Scholarship Program |
$3,000-$12,000 |
The National Federation of the Blind offers scholarships to blind students throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The organization provides $120,000 in scholarship funds through 30 merit-based scholarships. Applicants must demonstrate academic prowess, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. Applicants can be studying many fields, including math education. |
Online Bachelor's in Math Education
#1 Online Math Education Degrees
Granite State College
- Concord, NH
- 4 years
- Online
A public institution, Granite State College educates students from its Concord campus. The institution's learners can study online or on campus. Among the school's available programs are 58 online options for distance degree-seekers. Online enrollees can enroll in the online BA in math studies program from the institution.
To complete the online bachelor's in math education program, degree-seekers earn at least 120 credits. To graduate with the bachelor's degree, online students complete general education coursework, along with core and upper-division major classes. Learners can customize the program through experiential learning opportunities and electives. Gaining professional experience during internships can benefit graduates applying for positions in their field.
Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. According to the school, 84% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#2 Online Math Education Degrees
Mayville State University
- Mayville, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from Mayville State University. The school's offerings include a B.S.Ed. in mathematics education that helps degree-seekers qualify for math education careers.
The online math education program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy enrollees. Distance learners in the math education program complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. Online students can engage with peers and develop lasting professional connections. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need four years to graduate from the 120-credit bachelor's program.
Degree-seekers attending the accredited institution online or on campus can qualify for federal aid. The school's financial aid counselors help students secure funding through scholarship and grant programs. The school reports that 94% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Math Education Degrees
Arizona Christian University
- Glendale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners can enroll in the BS in secondary education with an emphasis in mathematics from Arizona Christian University. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements. A bachelor's degree qualifies graduates for a variety of entry-level careers.
Degree-seekers in the math education program develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialize during upper-level classes. In addition to classes within the major, undergraduates take general education courses and electives. While completing general education requirements, students gain critical thinking skills they can apply to education careers and advanced studies. Learners pursuing the degree can choose electives that align with their interests and professional goals.
The private institution delivers five online programs, with 20 total programs available. The school's online bachelor's programs are ideal for busy degree-seekers. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Math Education Degrees
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Western Governors University's online bachelor's degree in mathematics education provides a flexible option for learners interested in math education careers. The Utah-based school educates degree-seekers at its Salt Lake City campus. Out of all programs provided by the school, 65 programs offer an online enrollment option.
Online learners in the math education program benefit from scheduling flexibility. Students balancing academics with personal or professional obligations can take advantage of the online program's customizable scheduling options. The online program features opportunities to connect with peers and faculty members. Undergraduate degree-seekers typically graduate in four years. Students can transfer previous credits into their undergraduate program to minimize overall tuition costs.
Learners at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Online programs at the school cost an average of $3,478 per semester. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. The school offers financial aid advising to help admitted students identify scholarship and grant opportunities.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
136,139
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#5 Online Math Education Degrees
Ottawa University
- Overland Park, KS
- 4 years
- Online
The online bachelor's degree in mathematics at Ottawa University ranks as one of the best programs in the field. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's academic programs on campus in Overland Park, Kansas. Among the school's available programs are 42 online options for distance students.
With flexible scheduling options, the online math education program offers a high-quality learning experience. Online learning is ideal for students with busy schedules. The online program features opportunities to connect with peers and faculty members. Undergraduates typically complete the bachelor's program in about four years.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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