Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

The U.S. needs more math teachers. Find out how earning a master's in math education online can equip you to lead and teach in this critical field.
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Best Online Master's Programs in Math Education

Math teachers, students, and researchers are all part of the math education field. These scholars may teach the fundamentals of arithmetic to elementary students, create new models for learning math, or coach other educators in best practices for teaching math.

Earning a master's in math education online can be the first step to a career in math education. This program builds on a bachelor's degree to equip aspiring or current math educators with the tools to advance in their profession.

If you envision yourself leading or educating students, or researching within math education, this may be the right degree for you.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Top 10 Online Master's Degrees in Math Education

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#1 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Western Governors University

  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP, AAQEP

Cost per Six-Month Term:
In-State | $3,975
Out-of-State | $3,975

Competency Units to Graduate: 46

Western Governors University's master's in teaching mathematics prepares students to become middle and high school math teachers. Attendees learn teaching and mathematics skills, which they must demonstrate at the end of the program via a teacher performance assessment and professional portfolio. 

Attendees who wish to obtain licensure for teaching can speak to the school's enrollment counselors. The counselors, who keep up-to-date information on internal programs and state licensure requirements, can assist students in determining if a specific program can lead to licensure. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,162
Out-of-state
$7,162
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
150,116
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Georgia State University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $398
Out-of-State | $1,259

Credits to Graduate: 36

Georgia State University offers a master's in mathematics education to help attendees understand advanced math concepts and how to prepare lesson plans for students of diverse backgrounds. The curriculum utilizes principles from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS), but the degree does not lead to licensure. 

Prospective applicants must provide proof that they meet the certification requirements for teaching mathematics to primary or secondary students in Georgia. Qualified individuals must then submit an online application, a $50 fee, a goal statement, and official transcripts. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,158
Out-of-state
$22,389
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,164
Out-of-state
$22,662
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
36,973
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $290
Out-of-State | $1,020

Credits to Graduate: 36

East Carolina University's master's degree in mathematics education has a curriculum designed to improve current math teachers' testing outcomes and promotion opportunities.  Attendees can choose one of three concentrations, including elementary, middle school, and high school math. The high school concentration may only be offered as a hybrid online and in-person program in certain years. 

The program allows full-time working professionals to pursue and finish a master's degree within two years. Enrollees must complete 12 courses, including a research course and capstone project. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
28,021
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Hood College

  • Frederick, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $500
Out-of-State | $500

Credits to Graduate: 30

Hood College offers a master's in mathematics education that teaches candidates through active hands-on classes and modern technological tools. Attendees without a bachelor's degree in math can pursue the middle school teaching track, while those with a mathematics bachelor's degree can pursue the high school track. 

Individuals who are unsure if they want to complete a master's program can apply for the mathematics certificate program. The certificate program includes five courses, which can later be applied to the school's master's programs. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,510
Out-of-state
$42,510
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,820
Out-of-state
$8,820
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
2,095
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Nova Southeastern University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,164
Out-of-State | $1,164

Credits to Graduate: 36

Nova Southeastern University's MS in mathematics education provides upcoming teachers with curriculum development, assessment, and fundamental communication skills training. Program enrollees can choose between the K-12 and postsecondary math teaching tracks. Individuals who wish to pursue the postsecondary track must receive faculty approval before beginning classes. 

The entirely online program offers a rolling year-wide application. Interested students need to submit an online application, a $50 fee, and official transcripts. Applicants must also have at a GPA of at least 2.5 in their undergraduate coursework.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,510
Out-of-state
$33,510
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,153
Out-of-state
$21,153
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
20,898
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $610
Out-of-State | $610

Credits to Graduate: 37

Northern Arizona University offers a master of science in math education program for current secondary math educators who wish to increase their teaching skills and knowledge of math theory. The program connects theoretical math ideas and real-world applications to give students a deep understanding of the significance of math outside the classroom.

Enrollees must complete mathematic content courses, teaching classes, and a capstone project. The capstone project requires students to take a comprehensive exam and submit a portfolio, followed by an oral defense. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,381
Out-of-state
$16,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,724
Out-of-state
$19,266
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
28,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

University at Buffalo

  • Buffalo, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: AAQEP

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $471
Out-of-State | $565

Credits to Graduate: 33

The University at Buffalo's mathematics education graduate program focuses on technological tools in math courses and assessing students' learnings. The school offers three tracks, but only the professional track can be taken online. The professional track prepares enrollees to teach math to grades 7-12. Attendees must complete a capstone project or thesis before graduating. 

The school's program meets New York's teacher certification requirements. Future teachers who wish to be certified in other states should contact their state's board of education with the program details. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
32,332
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

SUNY Brockport

  • Brockport, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $471
Out-of-State | $565

Credits to Graduate: 30

SUNY Brockport's master's in math education provides a fully online adolescence education concentration for teaching grades 7-12. The adolescence program requires enrollees to hold a New York teaching certificate in mathematics. The curriculum satisfies the requirements for the New York professional certification in math. However, graduates must meet additional state requirements to obtain the professional certification. 

Applicants to the program must hold a bachelor's degree with at least a GPA of 3.0. Qualified individuals must then submit a statement of objectives, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and proof of a New York State certification in math for grades 7-12.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
6,991
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

James Madison University

  • Harrisonburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: CAEP

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $545
Out-of-State | $1,272

Credits to Graduate: 34

James Madison University's master of education in mathematics aims to advance attendees' knowledge of mathematical concepts and learning theories. The curriculum was developed for current math teachers, but non-teachers may also apply. Enrollees take 13 educational development credits and 21 mathematic-focused credits. 

Applicants must have completed 15 undergraduate math courses, including linear algebra and calculus. Students with the necessary mathematics background can apply by submitting an online application and official transcripts. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,460
Out-of-state
$23,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,184
Out-of-state
$27,888
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
22,166
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Master’s in Math Education Programs

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $451
Out-of-State | $676

Credits to Graduate: 30-32

Ball State University's online master's degree in mathematics education offers three different concentration options for current teachers and other professionals. Licensed teachers can pursue concentrations in elementary and middle school teaching or secondary school teaching. Non-licensed individuals can choose the elementary or middle school math education specialist route, which prepares students to pursue an Indiana Elementary Mathematics Specialist license. 

Indiana license applicants must pass a math assessment provided by the state. Enrollees in the specialist concentration must complete a research course, which the other two concentrations do not require. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,628
Out-of-state
$26,862
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,482
Out-of-state
$25,938
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
20,319
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

What Is a Master's in Math Education?

A master's degree in math education typically consists of 30-40 credits and takes 18-24 months to complete on a full-time basis. Some accelerated programs may take as few as 12 months to complete, while part-time options can take as long as three years. Classes may be taught in an on-campus, online, or hybrid format.

In addition to core coursework in mathematics and teaching, a master's degree in math education may offer concentrations to help you build more specialized knowledge. These vary across programs, but common examples include:

When preparing for graduate school, note that some math education programs provide the training and experience necessary to obtain a state-issued teaching license, while others admit only learners who already have an active license. Those that prepare students for licensure or certification typically include an in-person student teaching experience.

Should I Earn a Master's in Math Education Online?

Great math teachers are patient, engaging leaders who love learning and people as much as they love mathematics. Look at the list of characteristics below:

  • Team Players: Teachers work collaboratively to create powerful, cross-disciplinary learning experiences for students.
  • Excellent Communicators: Communication is critical as students discover and apply complex math skills.
  • Strong Mathematicians: Confident, well-prepared mathematicians who know their subject well can boost students' knowledge and skills.
  • Caring Classroom Leaders: Teaching requires leadership, a keen sense of influencing others to work toward a common and worthy goal.
  • Lifelong Learners: People who love to learn make great teachers. They also make ideal students in online master's in math education programs.

Master's in Math Education Online Coursework

Curriculum and Instruction in Mathematics Education

This course examines contemporary trends and issues within mathematics curriculums, with an emphasis on how standards-based instruction influences both the creation of a curriculum and how teachers create lesson plans.

Teaching Mathematics Through Problem Solving

Recognizing that the best way to learn mathematics is by working through problems, this course looks at how to cultivate mathematical reasoning and encourage students to address complicated problems thoughtfully.

Research Methods in Mathematics Education

This survey course looks at both historical and current methods of research and analysis within teaching mathematics. Students select an area of the discipline to research, using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Technology for Mathematics Teachers

Technology will continue expanding as a tool for mathematics teachers, and this course aims to introduce them to contemporary and emerging tools for modeling and computational exercises within teaching.

Mathematics Learners and Learning

Taking this course can provide future teachers with an understanding of unique learner qualities that can impact how they learn mathematics. Students consider topics around cultural and social learning contexts, developmental shifts, and existing skills and knowledge.

Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Math Education Program

Each school sets its specific admissions criteria. Still, most universities require the following:

  • Bachelor's Degree: You need a four-year degree from an accredited college or university. Some schools may require a mathematics or education-related major.
  • Qualifying GPA: Most graduate schools expect an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above, but many institutions will also consider conditional admission for applicants with lower GPAs.
  • Work Experience: You may be expected to hold classroom teaching experience before applying for an advanced education degree. Almost certainly, you will need access to a classroom during your program — even for master's in math education online programs.
  • Teacher License: Many schools require a valid, state-issued teaching license for admission. Some institutions may consider licensure through private organizations like the Association of Christian Schools International.
  • GRE or MAT Scores: Many schools require standardized test scores, like on the GRE or MAT. If you have a lower GPA, submitting test scores may boost your admission potential.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Math Education?

Career Outlook

A master's degree in math education can set you up for career success in school settings, higher education, or non-traditional learning environments. Most people with a degree teach in public or private K-12 settings, but more career options exist.

While math teachers are in high demand nationwide, you may also use this degree to become a math education professor or a math education researcher. For instance, you could write a mathematics textbook for a publisher or work at a science museum. You could also use your master's degree in math education to transition to a role in data analytics.

Career Paths

Instructional Coordinator

Instructional coordinators spend their days developing and overseeing school curriculums at the K-12 level. In addition to creating new educational materials, coordinators work with existing curriculums as related to current teaching standards. If implementing new materials, they train teachers and support staff in the new content.

Median Annual Salary (2022): $66,490

Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher

These teachers help K-5 students build foundational skills in mathematical principles. In addition to teaching basic addition and subtraction, teachers of older grades may introduce multiplication, subtraction, and basic fractions. They also create lesson plans and use assignments to assess abilities and progress.

Median Annual Salary (2022): $61,620

Middle School Teacher

Middle school math teachers work with students in grades 6-8, building on foundational principles taught in elementary school and preparing learners for more advanced topics in high school. They introduce topics such as algebra, teaching learners how to work with exponents and non-number integers. They also prepare students for state-mandated standardized exams.

Median Annual Salary (2022): $61,810

High School Teacher

High school teachers educate students in grades 9-12 and focus on preparing them for the next stage of life — whether they enter the workforce or a higher education program. Math teachers at the high school level focus on topics such as advanced algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. They may also teach AP courses like calculus.

Median Annual Salary (2022): $62,360

Continuing Education

After earning your master's in math education, you may wish to pursue a doctorate in math education. This advanced degree can qualify you to teach the next generation of mathematics educators at four-year colleges and universities. A doctoral degree in education can also open the doors to more research-based careers within academia.

Choosing an Online Master's in Math Education Program

With so many online programs, picking the right program for you can be challenging. You want to consider more than tuition fees and potential pay raises when selecting a master's degree in math education.

Know your career goals.

Do you want to secure a teaching license? Switch careers? Advance at your current school? Knowing your career goals affects what academic concentration you are looking for and whether you need a licensure or non-licensure program.

For example, career switchers may need an MAT degree, which often leads to a teaching license, while current teachers might choose an M.Ed., which can help them pursue a second license or endorsement.

Verify accreditation.

Accredited degrees are valuable degrees. An institutionally accredited school is vital to getting financial aid packages. Plus, a degree from an accredited institution may be more favorable with employers.

What's more, if you are a licensed teacher or seek to become one, your state agency may only recognize degrees from accredited schools. You can check your school's accreditation status online.

Some programs also hold programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) or Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP). While this type of accreditation is optional, it can indicate a program's level of commitment to educator preparation.

Compare costs and financial aid.

The cost of a master's degree varies widely based on many factors. Public schools generally cost less than private institutions, and in-state universities typically charge lower rates than out-of-state ones.

A price tag is not the only financial factor to consider. Financial aid packages can significantly impact your actual costs. You may be eligible for TEACH grants, scholarships, or support from your school district.

Ensure format fits your needs.

Online education is flexible and popular but may not be suitable for everyone. They usually demand focused work, independent study, and exceptional organization.

Not all distance education programs work the same way, though. Master's in math education online degrees can be full-time or part-time and either synchronous or asynchronous. Most online programs offering a licensure track will require in-person student teaching.

Review student support services.

Does your school provide technical support for the learning platform? Help with writing or study skills? Career support after graduation? Ensuring that the school and program you choose offers the support services you need is vital.

Ask your admissions representative the resources available to you as an online student.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Math Education Online Degrees

How much does a master's degree in math education cost?

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According to the NCES, the average graduate education degree offered entirely online costs an average of $7,744 annually. Remember, though, that averages can be misleading. Tuition can vary from less than $10,000 for the entire degree to more than $60,000.

Is a master's in math education worth it?

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A master's in math education can help you switch careers, secure a pay raise, improve your teaching skills, or lay the foundation for doctoral work. While a degree's financial and personal costs can be high, these rewards are significant. Only you can decide if the investment is worth the potential return.

What skills will I learn in a master's in math education program?

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As a math education student, you can sharpen your math skills, learn to develop curriculum, improve your assessments, and perform valuable research in the field.

Your degree may include coursework in calculus, discrete mathematics, mathematical modeling, and the culture of math. In a licensure-track degree, you may also learn the fundamentals of teaching and classroom management.

Are math teachers in demand?

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The U.S. Department of Education has determined that there is a nationwide shortage of math teachers. Much of the problem lies in the pipeline of new teacher candidates. Recently, 70% of public schools told NCES surveyors that they have trouble getting enough applicants for all their openings. All this means that a job-rich field could await digitally literate, highly qualified math teachers.

What degrees are best for a math teacher?

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Generally, teachers need a degree emphasizing education and subject matter expertise. Math teachers, therefore, require extensive coursework in both math and education. A master's degree in math education can offer the ideal blend of educational content for aspiring teachers or current professionals looking to step up in their careers.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed February 6, 2024.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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