20 Best Online Math Degrees [2024 Guide]

If you love math and working with numbers, then you may consider pursuing an online math degree.

While this can be a challenging degree option, especially for students seeking degrees that don’t require math, the rewards of earning a math degree can be significant.

These programs often cultivate problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills, which can lead to excellent career options.

Universities Offering Online Bachelor’s in Math Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. American Public University

American Public University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program teaches students to effectively communicate principles of mathematical theory, analyze mathematical theory, improve their critical thinking skills, and solve complex STEM problems.

This program is designed for students hoping to become educators, computer programmers, engineers, or other professionals in STEM-related fields.

American Public University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Bellevue University

Bellevue University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program requires multiple courses in all levels of math.

These include courses in calculus, linear algebra, abstract algebra, and discrete math. There are also required courses in computer programming and applied statistics because programming and accounting are common career outcomes of math majors.

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Central Methodist University

Students at Central Methodist University have several math-related options. The college offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, offers an Associate of Science in Mathematics, and offers math as a minor as well. Major subjects covered include calculus, algebra, analysis, engineering, geometry, and statistics.

Central Methodist University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

4. Chadron State College

Chadron State College’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program strives to prepare students to use technology to aid with problem-solving, to communicate easily about math, to develop mathematical knowledge and ability, and to apply math to various disciplines.

The school also offers math minors in conjunction with education and applied statistics degrees.

CSC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

5. Eastern New Mexico University

Students enrolled in either the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics program at Eastern New Mexico University will learn all about the different topics covered under the math umbrella. Students have access to free online tutoring and the online writing center to help them improve their grades.

Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Grand Canyon University

The Bachelor of Science in Math Education program at Grand Canyon University is for students hoping to teach at the secondary education level after graduating.

The degree does lead to teacher licensure. Key curriculum components include courses in various math disciplines, classroom management, instructional methods, math modeling, and pedagogical theories.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Indiana University

Indiana University offers a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program to students hoping to become data analysts or scientists, actuaries, math teachers or technicians, statisticians, and other related titles. The curriculum includes 33 general education credits, 31 core math class credits, 15 math elective credits, and 41 general elective credits.

Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. Indiana University – East

The online Bachelor of Science program at Indiana University East can be completed in as few as 2 years by students who’ve already completed their general education and elective courses. The core curriculum includes classes in real analysis, math modeling, linear and modern algebra, and calculus. Elective courses are customizable.

IU East is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

9. Louisiana State University

Students in Louisiana State University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program are expected to master all the fundamentals of the mathematics field.

The curriculum is flexible, affordable, and comprehensive. It includes 27 credits of foundational math courses, several general education courses, and electives. Various computer science courses are also required.

Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Maryville University

Maryville University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program places emphasis on the foundational, practical, and theoretical aspects of mathematics.

Courses can be undertaken online, but students can also participate in an optional internship. They can select electives in data science, financial mathematics, statistical modeling, or discrete mathematics.

The Maryville University of Saint Louis is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

11. Mayville State University

Students interested in math at Mayville State University can enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program or the Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Mathematics.

The degrees are affordable, accredited, and transfer-friendly. Their curricula are comprehensive and feature plenty of hands-on classes for practical experience.

Mayville State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Mercy College

Mercy College offers a combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mathematics and Adolescence Education, Grades 7-12 program for students at different levels in their educational journeys. There’s also a dual certification path option, entitled Teaching Students with Disabilities, if students want to take a few additional courses.

Mercy College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Midway University

At Midway University, students can earn their mathematics degrees by taking the school’s 8 week accelerated courses. Class sizes are relatively small, and the curriculum is flexible and can be taken 100% online. Additionally, over 90% of students at the school qualify to receive some form of financial aid.

Midway University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. Ottawa University

The mathematics program at Ottawa University can prepare students for advanced study at the graduate level or for careers in education, statistics, operations research, computer science, finance, government, actuarial science, or pure mathematics. There’s also an actuarial science concentration for students who want to narrow their focus to that field.

Ottawa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

15. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics program prepares graduates for careers in many analytical and quantitative fields. Admission to the program does not require ACT or SAT scores and does not require you to pay an admissions application fee. Tuition is the same for both out-of-state and in-state students.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

16. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers two Bachelor of Science degrees with math concentrations. Students will choose either the Middle-Level Math concentration or the Secondary Math concentration, depending on which grades they want to teach.

The course curriculum for each is slightly different because middle-level and secondary learners have slightly different needs.

Texas Tech University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. Thomas Edison State University

Graduates of Thomas Edison State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics program should be able to develop and write mathematical proofs, demonstrate mastery over core math competencies, and demonstrate and explain mathematical problem-solving.

Notable electives include cryptography and cryptanalysis, abstract algebra, matrix algebra, sampling theory, and history of mathematics.

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

18. University of Illinois – Springfield

The Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics program at University of Illinois – Springfield is a junior and senior level program for students who’ve already earned their associates degrees.

It’s a 61 credit program that teaches students the diverse quantitative skills needed to succeed in the mathematics field. Financial aid is available to students who qualify.

The University of Illinois Springfield is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

19. University of Massachusetts – Lowell

University of Massachusetts – Lowell’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program is flexible and includes many different courses in propositional logic, computer science, discrete structures, physics, and calculus.

The school also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, but it requires far fewer science-related courses than the Bachelor of Science degree.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

20. Western Governors University

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education program at Western Governors University has been recognized by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. It provides a path to teacher licensure for many students and can be completed in as few as 42 months. Transfer credits from accredited universities are accepted.

Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Online Math Degrees

While a degree in math might be a fitting option for you, you may wonder what you can actually do with a degree in math after you graduate. As it turns out, there are many careers that value this degree.

People with advanced knowledge of math, logic, problem-solving, and statistics are desperately needed in today’s technology and data-driven world. An online degree in mathematics may give you the skills and knowledge needed to fill highly valued roles in a multitude of sectors, such as government, business, and education.

The best online math degree programs focus on not only gaining a solid base of mathematical skill and knowledge but also using that expertise to solve real-world problems.

In addition to general education courses, math majors usually take advanced courses in discrete mathematics, statistics, algebra, and geometry, along with several courses in calculus. These courses help give you a solid knowledge of the functional uses and theories behind mathematics.

Math Careers & Salaries

A bachelors degree in math may lead to a diverse range of careers. Some occupations that you may qualify for after graduation include an institutional researcher at an educational institution, a financial analyst at a large company, or even an actuary for an insurance agency.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following occupations could be a good fit for someone holding a degree in mathematics.

As the above shows, there is great variety in the careers for math majors, some of which have high earning potential. Because math is such a general degree, it can be helpful to gear your college courses toward your career ambitions.

Bachelor’s in Mathematics Curriculum & Courses

Here are some courses you may to take in an online math bachelor’s degree:

• Calculus: Math majors often take several courses in calculus, the study of continuous change, such as single variable, integration, and multivariable calculus.
• Real Analysis: This course delves into the theory behind single variable calculus, emphasizing problem solving and proofs.
• Logic: A philosophy course in logic may help you think like a mathematician, teaching you how to make logical arguments.
• Proofs and Problem Solving: This is another course that will deepen your understanding of mathematics, delving into the creation of mathematical proofs.
• Abstract Algebra: This course is concerned with algebraic structures and helps deepen your understanding of mathematical proofs.
• Differential Equations: Math majors usually take several courses on differential equations, which can be useful in your career since they have very practical applications.
• Applied Linear Algebra: This is another course with many practical uses, as it teaches you to apply your knowledge to mathematical problems you may encounter in a variety of fields.
• Discrete Mathematics: Usually vital for anyone hoping to join the computer science field, discrete mathematics is the study of mathematical structures that have separate values.
• Actuarial Mathematics: This course covers financial mathematical modeling and is vital if you have aspirations in the finance field.
• Mathematical Cryptography: A course on cryptography explores the development and vulnerabilities inherent to secure communications systems, and this subject can be very useful if you hope to work in computer science, cybersecurity, or finance.

In an online mathematics degree program, not only will the courses you take be fascinating for those with a love of math, but they may also have real-world, practical uses in a variety of fields. These career fields include research, computer science, and business.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements vary across institutions, but most online math programs’ admissions applications include the following components:

• Statement of Goals: An essay showcasing your writing and critical thinking skills and demonstrating that you have specific goals in mind for your degree is usually required.
• Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from academic, professional, or personal contacts are usually requested.
• Test Scores: While many institutions require a placement exam, SAT or ACT scores are sometimes required.

Many colleges and universities only require your typical admissions application. Some programs that are more competitive require applicants either to pass a few advanced math courses before allowing them into the program or to test into college-level mathematics.

Accreditation

When selecting colleges and universities to apply to, you may want to ensure that a school is accredited by a regional accrediting organization. This is one way to assess the quality and reputation of the school.

Accreditation qualifies colleges and universities for federal financial aid programs, which are often vital for students to fund their education. Also, if you ever transfer to another college or university or decide to pursue a graduate degree, your next institution will look to the accreditation of your college when evaluating your credits.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

When considering college, many students are astounded by the expense and wonder how they will fund their education. Fortunately, there may be many avenues for funding your degree if you meet qualifications.

The federal government can offer student loans that must be paid back after you graduate, but you may also qualify for grants that do not need to be paid back. In order to be considered, you would need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early in the admissions process.

Even if you plan to use loans or grants, it may help to look into scholarship opportunities as well. You may inquire about the availability and eligibility of scholarships with your college or university, or you may look into scholarships from local community organizations.

What Can You Do with a Math Degree?

Mathematics is a fairly broad degree option, and the skills you will gain in a math program can be useful in many career paths in the fields of academia, government, business, and finance. For example, with a math degree, you may start a career as an actuary, statistician, computer systems analyst, or budget analyst.

Your degree in math will give you the credential and knowledge to start your career, but your experience will inform the direction of your career. Your aspirations, interests, and skills may take you down a path that can grow and develop along your career journey.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Mathematics Degree?

How long it will take to earn your degree depends on your credit load each semester as well as your college or university’s academic schedule.

If you follow a traditional, 16 week semester and attend full-time, it can take 4 years for a bachelor’s degree. If you follow an 8 week semester and stay continuously enrolled year-round, you may finish in less time.

Taking additional courses in the summer may also cut down on the time it will take you to earn your degree. Some colleges and universities offer short winter courses in between the fall and spring semesters as well.

Can I Get a Math Degree Online?

Many colleges and universities offer an online bachelor’s degree in math that can be earned completely online. This can be a challenging degree, but many colleges are constantly improving their systems to make the online modality work for students just as well as in-person classes.

If work, family, or geography prevent you from attending in-person classes, pursuing a math degree online can be an excellent solution for many students.

Is a Math Degree Worth It?

Yes, a bachelors degree in math is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 27% job growth in math occupations over the next 10 years.

Common math careers include actuary, mathematician or statistician, operations research analyst, computer systems analyst, and financial analyst. Because the skills you can gain in a math program can be so practical and useful, you will find that your career can go in many directions, depending on your interests and ultimate career goals.

Many people find that their career can combine their love of math with other passions, such as education, nonprofit work, or research.

Getting Your Math Degree Online

Getting your math degree online may challenge your analytical skills in new ways and prepare you for highly-valued career paths and occupations.

Colleges and universities have been offering these courses in the online modality for years, and many of them are prepared to offer their students the support they need to succeed.

If you think a bachelor’s in math may be right for you, then there are many accredited, reputable colleges and programs for you to explore.