Best Online Math Degrees 2026
Our list of the best online math degree programs features accredited schools ranked by the number of online graduates, helping you identify options with established virtual learning communities and strong support for students developing quantitative and analytical skills.
Key Takeaways:
- Southern New Hampshire University Online ranks #1 overall with 177 graduates in its online B.A. in Mathematics, clearly the most successful math program. It also has the highest reported salary for math grads four years after graduation at ~$69,545.
- Ottawa University Online maintains an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
- Indiana University - East reports a 100% recommendation rate from students we've surveyed.
You can review our methodology to see how we measure program graduate counts.
Best Online Math Degrees 2026
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 177 | $9,900 | $69,545 | 69% | |
| Indiana University - East | 70 | $22,043 | $56,971 | 100% | |
| Louisiana State University - Alexandria | 37 | $8,010 | N/A | N/A | |
| Liberty University | 30 | $11,700 | N/A | 75% | |
| Thomas Edison State University | 18 | $8,856 | N/A | 66% | |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | 15 | $11,025 | $57,809 | 95% | |
| Maryville University | 12 | $16,200 | N/A | 61% | |
| Bellevue University | 5 | $13,470 | N/A | 75% | |
| Mayville State University | 4 | $8,145 | N/A | 100% | |
| Fayetteville State University | 4 | $6,198 | N/A | 93% | |
| Dickinson State University | 1 | $7,470 | N/A | 100% | |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus | 1 | $6,174 | N/A | 96% | |
| Ottawa University Online | 1 | $14,970 | N/A | 86% | |
| Central Methodist University | 1 | $8,250 | N/A | 88% | |
| Valley City State University | 1 | $11,583 | N/A | 100% |
Best Online Math Degrees 2026 - Program Details
- Graduates: 177
- Annual Tuition: $9,900
- Median Salary: $69,545
- Recommendation: 69%
Why we like them: Ranked #1 for Most Popular, SNHU earned its spot by graduating 177 online math majors. SNHU differentiates its online mathematics degree by hardwiring computation into the major, requiring you to work in Python, MATLAB, and R rather than offering them as optional side courses.
- Graduates: 70
- Annual Tuition: $22,043
- Median Salary: $56,971
- Recommendation: 100%
Why we like them: IU East has a perfect 100% recommendation rate based on students we've surveyed. The mathematics curriculum covers the theory needed for those who want to become teachers or pursue graduate school but it also teaches modeling and data reasoning for applied careers in banking, insurance, forecasting, and risk analysis.
- Graduates: 37
- Annual Tuition: $8,010
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: N/A
Why we like them: There are three concentration options, including Actuarial Science and Data Science, which align the coursework with industry credentials and prepare you for SOA P and FM exams, CAP, SAS Data Scientist, and Google Data Analytics certificates.
Digging Into The Best Online Math Degrees
A bachelor’s degree in mathematics is a program that trains you in how to understand structure, patterns, and uncertainty, and then communicate that understanding clearly. Students learn to decide what information is needed to answer a question, how to design the methods for gathering that information, and how to develop models that explain or predict what’s happening.
The work stretches from theoretical proof writing to statistical inference and computational analysis. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), apply these tools everywhere that problems need to be solved, including in business, engineering, education, healthcare, and government roles.
What you study under the “mathematics” umbrella is broader than most realize. According to , about 82% of majors in this field fall under the mathematics category, with 10% in statistics and decision science and 7% in applied math. And these degree-holders work across diverse areas, including computer and mathematical roles (24%), education (18%), management (15%), and business and finance (11%), among others.
SNHU is in a category of its own with 177 online math graduates.
We rank by program graduate count to show you the evidence regarding which program is successfully graduating the most students with math degrees online. It tells you which online math programs have the scale and systems to deliver actual results, like SNHU, which is in a category of its own with 177 online math graduates, while the median across our list is about 14 math graduates per program.
Below, we dive further into the data to paint a fuller picture of what you can expect from these mathematics bachelor's programs.
Where Students Would Return: Looking At the Top Recommended Schools
Our recommendation rates come from 90,000+ verified students reviews that capture the day-to-day realities and firsthand experiences of real students at these schools hosting online math degrees.
In an online math degree, students often need to rely on the support of the faculty, especially through the hardest parts of the learning curve. That's why it can be helpful for students to look at the schools with the strongest recommendation rates, as these are the ones that tend to have the most responsive faculty as well as the most active peer interaction and engagement.
How These Programs Use Math Differently And How This Shapes Your Career
Online math degrees may share familiar course titles — Calculus, Linear Algebra, Abstract Algebra, Probability — but the intellectual emphasis behind those courses can differ significantly, and that difference is what helps to shape your career direction.
Proof-First Academic Approach
These programs treat mathematics as a sort of language that entails logic, structure, and abstraction. It's often a match for students who love theoretical research and the deep reasoning side of math.
Examples:
- Thomas Edison State University – The online BA in Mathematics requires extensive proof-writing and allows unusual flexibility to select higher-level theory courses.
- The University of Illinois Springfield – This online BA in Mathematical Sciences tends to prioritize mathematical reasoning and argumentation, requiring students to justify results, test conjectures, and communicate the logic behind their solutions. In other words, it's not just performing calculations.
The Applied and Computational Approach
If you like seeing your mathematical equations actually do something in the real world (like driving decisions in a business or solving real problems), then this could very well be your lane. These programs are designed for those who are drawn toward quantitative careers.
Examples:
- Southern New Hampshire University – In SNHU's online BA in Mathematics, Python, MATLAB, and R are required, not optional.
- Maryville University – This online BS in Mathematics integrates a built-in Data Science minor (machine learning, SQL, predictive modeling).
- Bellevue University – This math major has a Predictive Modeling emphasis and partnerships with Statistics.com which allow students to produce analytics portfolios.
- Louisiana State University Alexandria – This mathematics bachelor's program has two concentrations to choose from: Actuarial Science or Data Science.
The Teaching-Focused Approach
These programs emphasize the art of explaining mathematics clearly to others, covering aspects of teaching, like how to structure these challenging concepts for students to absorb. Some don't just cover pedagogy they explicitly gear the program toward licensure routes. So, if you find yourself explaining concepts to classmates and loving it, taking this approach could be a solid bet.
Examples:
- Central Methodist University – The online BA/BS in Mathematics is taught alongside in-house teacher preparation and has pathways into a master’s in mathematics.
- Mayville State University – Mayville's online BS in Mathematics has coursework options for those planning to teach and includes internship-based learning.
- Ottawa University – Along with the online BA in Mathematics, Ottawa has a Secondary Education concentration for students aiming to become classroom teachers.
Final Takeaways
If you’re choosing an online math degree, consider how it is you learn. Mathematics is cumulative and conceptual, and your success will come from the environment that helps you stay engaged when the material becomes increasingly abstract.
Larger, more lively online programs often provide more consistent course offerings and built-in virtual communities, which can help you maintain momentum, but smaller programs have their advantages as well. You may get closer interaction with faculty and more room for conversation when you get stuck on a problem. Neither approach is inherently better. Choosing the best math program involves recognizing what keeps you personally motivated.
The right program is the one that doesn’t just teach you to get the right answer but helps you understand why an answer is true. Look for exciting opportunities to connect mathematics to the kinds of problems you’re excited by, whether that’s modeling, data, research, or teaching.
FAQs About Online Math Degrees
Is Math a Good Major?
Yes, if you have an aptitude for numbers and computations as well as an analytical mind, math may be an excellent major for you. Earning a math degree online prepares you for a number of interesting, well-paid occupations.
An online math degree offers an accessible pathway to explore mathematical theories and applications, preparing you for careers in finance, engineering, and data science. The curriculum covers calculus, statistics, algebra, and discrete mathematics, integrating interactive methodologies and diverse resources to enhance engagement and provide a well-rounded educational experience.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Math Degree?
Graduates of an online math degree program can pursue a wide range of occupations in fields such as actuarial science, operations research, investment analysis, bioinformatics, and statistics. In general, individuals who choose careers as mathematicians focus on either applied mathematics or pure mathematics:
- Applied mathematicians collaborate with engineers, chemists, or anyone else who is in need of complex mathematical assistance.
- Pure mathematicians usually work in academia, creating and contributing to new mathematical disciplines and solving complex theoretical problems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is a growing need for . Demand for these professionals is projected to grow by 8% through 2034, and their median annual salary is $104,350. Most work for the federal government, although many find employment with scientific, research, and professional services providers or in academia. Job candidates typically need a math master's degree in addition to a bachelor's to be considered for these technically oriented positions.
However, graduates who've earned online math bachelor's degrees are also qualified for a number of other STEM careers. Depending on your particular interests, you may aspire to become one of the following:
- are professional mathematicians who use statistics to calculate and analyze risk, mostly related to the operations of insurance companies. They do this through mathematical theory and practical applications.
- Students in the United States struggle with the math segments of standardized tests more than they do in any other subject. at the high school level help prepare students for postsecondary education by teaching the fundamentals of calculus, algebra, and geometry.
- use math and data to solve problems and make decisions in business environments. After collecting data and conducting an analysis of the information, they typically make recommendations to other leaders and executives within the organization.
- Computer programmers write, modify, and test code in various computer languages, such as C++ and Java, to ensure the proper functionality of software and applications. They translate designs into computer instructions, run tests, and debug faulty code.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Math Teacher?
An online math degree is ideal for becoming a middle school or high school math teacher. You may want to pair this degree with a minor in education or teaching or select an online math program designed for future teachers. You will also need to meet your state's requirements for obtaining a teaching credential, which may include one or more semesters of teaching experience.
Can You Be an Accountant With a Math Degree?
Yes, you might be able to land a job as an accountant with a math degree. However, you'll be competing against graduates with accounting degrees and presumably more relevant knowledge. If you have an interest in accounting as a career but want to pursue a bachelor's in math, you could consider minoring in accounting or going on to earn an online master's degree in accounting.
What Does an Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics Involve?
In on-campus and online bachelor's degree programs, students take courses on a wide variety of math theories and applications. Programs often include courses like statistics, calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and economic modeling. A bachelor's degree in math can lead to careers in finance, economics, data science, teaching, and other fields that require a strong quantitative understanding.
Bachelor's in math programs usually require the completion of about 120 credit hours. Full-time students often complete their degree in four to five years, but part-time students may need longer.
During the first two years of a mathematics degree program, students take classes in liberal arts areas, such as the social and natural sciences, and in humanities. This curriculum is designed to help all students develop useful critical thinking and communication skills. In the final two years of the program, students focus on more challenging topics and problem-solving with advanced math courses.
Many students choose to complete an internship while earning their bachelor's degree to gain experience applying their coursework in a real-world setting. Since many math students expect to move on to master's or doctoral degrees before seeking full-time employment, internships also help students get a feel for actual math-related work environments.
Some students may benefit from enrolling in a fully online program. Distance learning offers greater scheduling flexibility than traditional programs, and they may be more affordable. In online courses, learners generally engage in coursework, participate in class discussions, and submit assignments at their convenience as long as they meet the stated deadlines. However, distance education is not right for everyone. Those who require more structure or more interaction with instructors may prefer on-campus classes.
What Courses Are Typically Included in an Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics Program?
The core math curriculum covers several advanced mathematical theories and applications. Courses also review the fundamentals — such as mathematical modeling, mathematical proofs, and formal logic — that some students may have learned in high school. Below are some of the common courses required in an on-campus or online math program at the bachelor's level:
- Abstract Algebra: This course is concerned with algebraic structures and gives students opportunities to master mathematical proofs. Coursework explores such topics as integers, polynomials, ring theory, group theory, fields, and Galois theory.
- Advanced Calculus or Real Analysis: This upper-level calculus course may include differential equations but also covers Taylor's Theorem, involving the infinite sum of terms. It also looks at variable calculus methods, such as derivatives, alongside double and triple integrals. Students should be familiar with mathematical proofs and notation before taking this class.
- Applied Linear Algebra: An applied linear algebra course moves beyond theory into the practical application of math in a range of fields and situations. Students learn about various equations involving lines, planes, vector spaces, and mapping.
- Data Analysis and Interpretation: This course explains how to measure, sample, summarize and display data. Additional topics include inferential methods, qualitative research design and methods, and the interpretation of research results.
- Differential Equations: At the theoretical level, a course in differential equations looks at the most complex equations and solutions in high-level calculus. This includes both numerical and transfer methods, separation of variables, and linear and nonlinear equations.
- Mathematical Statistics: Mathematical statistics covers statistical theory, estimation, hypothesis, and analysis testing. Coursework requires students to represent data through graphs, analyze trends, and make predictions.
What Specializations Can Students Pursue in an Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics?
Mathematicians generally work with one of two specializations — theoretical or applied math — which is why mathematics programs often allow students to focus more on one or the other. Some students may opt for courses that emphasize the practical application of mathematics, while others may want to select courses that explore the origins of mathematical theory. In both cases, mathematics students should review historical theories as well as contemporary mathematical applications.
Some bachelor's programs offer specialization tracks in related areas, such as actuarial science, industrial mathematics, or systems analysis. Other bachelor's degrees are designed to prepare students for careers as math teachers by including courses in curriculum design and instruction. Graduates from these programs are typically qualified to apply for state certification to become primary or secondary mathematics teachers. College-level teaching, however, typically requires a doctoral degree.
Thinking about becoming a math teacher? You may want to explore our lists of online secondary education degrees and affordable education degrees.
Is a Degree in Mathematics Worth It?
Earning a math degree online offers several benefits to highly analytical learners with a passion for solving complex mathematical problems. While the material can be incredibly challenging and often rooted in theory, math degrees can provide a pathway to in-demand careers with high-paying salaries.
Many of these job opportunities are found in innovative, cutting-edge industries. Online students with a math degree featuring a minor in aerospace, for example, may end up working for organizations such as NASA, which hires mathematicians to work alongside its physicists and engineers. However, prospective math majors should keep in mind that becoming a mathematician or statistician typically requires a master's degree in math.
Math careers can also be personally rewarding. Although the work of a mathematician or statistician may seem tedious to some, an shows that professionals rate their job satisfaction as a positive 3.6 out of 5.
Why Is Accreditation Important When Choosing the Best Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics?
Before you commit to any type of math education, you may want to research the school's accreditation status. Although there is no specific accreditation agency governing individual math degree programs, it's still important to choose a school that has earned overall institutional accreditation. This indicates that a school has met academic standards of quality.
Rest assured knowing that all colleges and universities across OnlineU are institutionally accredited.
Attending an accredited institution also means other institutions of higher education will recognize your degree if you choose to transfer credits between schools or continue your math education with a graduate degree. Enrollment in an accredited bachelor's degree program may also be required to obtain financial aid, scholarships — such as scholarships for STEM majors — and student loans. If you're planning a career in teaching, a degree from an accredited institution may be required to get a state teaching credential.
What Admissions Requirements Should You Expect for a Math Degree Online?
Once you've determined the best math programs for your goals, you'll need to apply to those colleges. Knowing each school's admissions requirements and application deadlines is critical. Some colleges are more selective about applicants, and the most selective schools generally set earlier deadlines. You may need to apply as early as a full year before the fall semester when you plan to start classes.
When you submit your online application, you'll most likely be asked to submit your official high school or GED transcripts as well. Depending on the college's admissions criteria, you may be required to have earned a GPA of at least 2.5 or possibly higher. You may also be asked for one or more of the following:
- College entrance exam scores, such as ACT or SAT scores
- A personal essay or statement
- One to three recommendation letters from teachers, coaches, supervisors, or other mentors
- A resume or list of extracurricular activities, including jobs, team sports, and volunteer activities
Looking for ways to reduce the cost of earning a math degree online? Review our ranked lists of the most affordable bachelor's in math and master's degrees in math.
Student Reviews of Online Mathematics Programs
I received an Associates degree in Applied Health Sciences and later a Bachelors degree in Math and Science from Thomas Edison University. I took classes across the entire spectrum with Thomas Edison, classes in mathematics, statistics, Psychology, English Comp, Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Ethics, Philosophy Microbiology etc... I can say that I have an advanced experience on what their class offerings are and the good and bad of them as an institution. I have worked full time the entire time... Read More
Review Date: 11/14/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
American Public University has one of the most primary educational programs, catered to top public servants, which are the most intelligent, capable people in the United States. I graduated from there in 2020, used my time there to learn as much skills as possible, work on myself as much as possible, and because of that qualification, I regularly get offers from the most high paying companies, and most high quality jobs around the country and they don't necessarily start me off at the bottom, either.... Read More
Review Date: 8/27/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There is nothing wrong with SNHU, but you will be doing lots of homework in such short frames that it will be difficult to have an opportunity to actually grasp the material. SNHU is very "learning objective" based, so it will not be like in a traditional classroom where the homework and test reflect the overall mood and ability of the class; you will be expected to test or do homework on every subject matter in the book. Lower level coursework that I took with this university had very active professors... Read More
Review Date: 2/10/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
Prepare to write over and over and over and over and over again. I'm working on the math degree and I've probably written the equivalent of a novel in terms of discussion posts, discussion responses, essays, and final projects. And the real pain in the butt? You write an in-depth two paragraph response and it's not written the way the instructor EXACTLY wants it written or it's not EXACTLY written how some arbitrary rubric specifies it needs to be written: you get docked. Prepare to teach yourself... Read More
Review Date: 7/29/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I think SNHU gives people the opportunity to excel at college. I was a transfer student that took 20 courses at SNHU. Many courses were difficult requiring around 20 hours per week of study time. But if you take the time to study the material each week, you should do well in the classes. I feel like I got a high quality education and the degree I'm receiving means a lot. Classes are 8 weeks long and generally 2 classes is full-time. While it helps to be highly intelligent, doing well in school is... Read More
Review Date: 8/31/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I greatly appreciated University of Illinois, Springfield in that this institution allowed me hold a full-time teaching job while pursuing my second undergraduate degree, online. While it was sometimes challenging to achieve thorough and timely communication with instructors (all communication is done via email), I believe that the pros definitely outweighed the cons. I was able to study on my own time, and was never required to be physically present for any classes. Since I worked two jobs during... Read More
Review Date: 7/23/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Gettysburg College is a tight-knit community of undergraduates. The students always seem to be enjoying themselves while maintaining a rigorous workload. Living on campus is required for all four years, and the facilities are very nice. Most students study abroad in their sophomore or junior year. The center for globalization studies provides resources and makes this process easy. The food on campus attracts a lot of students. Our dining center, servo, always has healthy and delicious options. The... Read More
Review Date: 3/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Gordon is an up and coming four year institution. Traditionally, they have been a feeder school for larger colleges and universities. In the recent years, however, they have added their own four year degree programs. I chose to stay at Gordon for all four years of my bachelors degree due to their low cost, friendly environment, knowledgeable faculty, and friendly staff. Help is readily available on campus if needed, and the student affairs department goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, fun... Read More
Review Date: 11/14/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am five-eighths of the way through my first term at SNHU online. This will be my third degree, the first two were from (different) brick & mortar state universities. I also teach developmental math at a local community college. And I taught one term at ITT Tech, which is a diploma mill to such a disgusting degree. I never returned. I am impressed with SNHU and with what they have been able to achieve. I am taking two classes, one of which I find extremely challenging, the other only mildly so.... Read More
Review Date: 4/11/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My time at Hofstra has really been quite the learning experience. It did not only make me grow academically but I've grown significantly all around. Whilst there was a lot of academic support from professors, the nature of the learning environment lends itself to autonomy. The campus life may not have been very diversified but diversity is present and well celebrated, through clubs and other campus activities. My biggest issue with Hofstra was with the registrar and student financial services. They... Read More
Review Date: 3/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
At Middle Tennessee State University I was exposed to many different cultures, ways of thinking, and types of professors. With my actuarial degree I was able to get many different levels of math with several different professors. Professors at MTSU were willing to help while also challenging you to figure things out for yourself. I would rate my time at MTSU as good,
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hi, my name is K. and I am a freshmen at UCF. I am going in as a mathematical biology majors with the hopes of applying to pharmacy or medicine school at the end of my four years. You must be thinking mathematical biology? that sounds hard. Well to be honest with you it does sound hard because it requires a lot of dedication meaning no wild parties for me. But you should give up on it now because in the end it will be worth it. Word of advise don't give up on it without a fight!
Review Date: 6/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
At Georgian Court, I found that the professors were always and willing to help. I enjoyed my time there as an undergrad that I also did my graduate work there as well. I liked how close it was to my home, and I was able to save money by commuting. The other thing I enjoyed about Georgian Court was the campus. It is not spread out all over the place and the classes are easy to go back and forth with. The one draw back about Georgian Court was the expense. I found it to be a little pricey, but it was... Read More
Review Date: 12/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Boston University is a great choice for prospective students due to its location, value, and emphasis on independence. There was light oversight from advisors and I had a lot of flexibility to choose and carve my own path with the classes I took and majors I tried out.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Notre Dame is a special place for so many reasons, but most of all the culture. There is a spirit of Notre Dame that lives in every student, faculty and community member, and it is 100% the people that make it the best place for college. The academics are challenging in the best way, and campus life is perfect for the development of the spirit.
Review Date: 2/10/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Boston University is a great choice for prospective students due to its location, value, and emphasis on independence. There was light oversight from advisors and I had a lot of flexibility to choose and carve my own path with the classes I took and majors I tried out.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Wofford is a great school environment. The small school size and class size makes it easy for you to form a connection with your professor. The professors themselves were great and always made themselves available to students for questions or help outside of class. Wofford is an overall great place, and the people at the school really care for you.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I had a fun experience during my time at Mississippi State. I made amazing friends and constantly felt a sense of community. The faculty of the math department were very encouraging and inspired me in so many ways beyond academics. The university offered many resources to support students in the academic careers, mental health, and other personal endeavors. They had a mission to ensure no one would fail.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Wofford is a great school environment. The small school size and class size makes it easy for you to form a connection with your professor. The professors themselves were great and always made themselves available to students for questions or help outside of class. Wofford is an overall great place, and the people at the school really care for you.
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Mathematics majors are challenged and the school has some recognition for its mathematics instruction. However, other classes were far too easy. This is my second degree, which I am using to potentially teach one day. Compared to DU, non-mathematics courses were a complete joke. Students were constantly lowering the quality of instruction. The computer science department needs to stop pandering to students. Mathematics instruction is actually rigorous which was a nice change. You have to know your... Read More
Review Date: 7/20/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No

