2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Mathematics
Find cheapest online master's in mathematics offering a balance of low tuition and strong student-reported outcomes.
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Affordable online master's in mathematics programs offer a flexible route to advanced mathematical training in areas like applied math, statistics, and computational methods.
Key Takeaways:
- The top-ranked school also reports strong career outcomes. The University of West Florida combines the lowest annual tuition on the list with a reported median salary of $68,555, making it one of the few schools where prospective students can compare affordability alongside available earnings data.
- Even the 15th-ranked mathematics master's program costs just ~$7,600 per year for in-state students, meaning every school on the list falls below $8,000 annually.
- Student satisfaction is consistently strong across affordable programs. Recommendation rates range from 80% to 100%, with more than half of the schools earning at least 90% recommendations from verified students.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Mathematics
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The University of West Florida | $4,430 | $13,853 | 85% | $68,555 | |
| North Carolina Central University | $4,488 | $15,578 | 85% | N/A | |
| Appalachian State University | $4,852 | $18,590 | 88% | N/A | |
| Indiana University - Kokomo | $5,239 | $7,739 | 80% | N/A | |
| Texas A&M University - Central Texas | $5,353 | $12,697 | 89% | N/A | |
| Nicholls State University | $5,685 | $6,778 | 96% | N/A | |
| Western Illinois University | $5,908 | $5,908 | 91% | N/A | |
| Central Methodist University | $6,240 | $6,240 | 88% | N/A | |
| Emporia State University | $6,321 | $8,756 | 94% | N/A | |
| University of Houston | $7,348 | $15,680 | 87% | N/A | |
| University of North Alabama | $7,425 | $7,425 | 81% | N/A | |
| Sam Houston State University | $7,582 | $14,872 | 94% | N/A | |
| Indiana State University | $7,623 | $9,949 | 91% | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is the cheapest online math master's program in the U.S., and it costs $4,430 annually for in-state students.
- UWF also ranks first on this list for retention rate and online enrollment. That combo illustrates that this inexpensive program is housed at a university with strong student persistence and a large online learning footprint.
- The program’s most distinctive feature is its live evening format. UWF requires synchronous online classes at 4 or 6 p.m. Central during fall and spring semesters. That makes it a better fit for students who want the flexibility of online study but still prefer scheduled lectures, real-time faculty access, and a cohort-style learning environment.
2 Student Reviews for Master's in Mathematics Degrees
A good mix of big college and smaller more personal college
Pros- fully online, but uses blackboard collaborate, so you feel you are in a classroom. Cons- online classes sometimes make it harder to communicate.
AI Student Review Summary: At the University of West Florida, students say that online and blended course formats offer strong flexibility for working adults, with many appreciating being able to complete coursework around full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Many reviewers explain how they did not feel like a number and built lasting relationships with instructors, advisors, and peers. They often found faculty responsive, encouraging, and invested in their success. Students also highlight affordability. Less obvious insights emerge in the criticisms, as several reviewers felt the institution’s priorities could be uneven, citing limited course availability in some areas as well as scholarship shortages.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 4,165 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $68,555
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 89%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- NCCU highlights faculty expertise in Analysis, Algebraic Topology, Cryptography, Optimization, Lie Theory, Quantum Groups, Fluid Dynamics, Bioinformatics, Numerical PDE, and Data Science.
- There are several concentrations to choose from, including Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Computational Science.
- Depending on the path, students complete a thesis or additional coursework and must pass written comprehensive exams covering areas such as Probability and Statistics, Analysis, Algebra, Geometry, and Applied Mathematics.
AI Student Review Summary: At North Carolina Central University, students mention useful extras such as tutoring, career services, volunteer opportunities, and networking. Students frequently praise small class sizes, one-on-one faculty attention, and practical instruction that feels relevant to the workplace. Several reviews also highlight strong scheduling flexibility, especially evening and online options that make it easier for working adults to continue their education. Students value affordability, scholarships, and helpful financial aid support. The most consistent complaints concern poor communication, difficulty reaching advisors, and confusion around requirements.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 839 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 42%
- Retention Rate: 73%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is a teaching-focused math graduate program built for educators who want to deepen their knowledge and improve how they teach mathematics.
- The master's in math degree offers two tracks: College Teaching and Secondary Teaching. The College Teaching track follows American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges guidelines for faculty preparation, making it especially relevant for students who want to teach at community colleges or other postsecondary institutions.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of Appalachian State University are overwhelmingly favorable, driven by strong ratings and repeated praise for an experience that feels personal and welcoming. Students highlight approachable professors who know them by name, offer extra help, and create a supportive environment rather than a competitive one. Many say coursework felt practical and hands-on, especially when paired with internships, clinical placements, fieldwork, study abroad, or other applied learning opportunities that improved career readiness. Affordability also appears as a benefit in several reviews, particularly for in-state tuition, book rentals, scholarships, and flexible online options. The main criticism, though, concerns inconsistent financial aid support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,017 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 84%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is a Master of Arts for Teachers, so it's for those who want graduate math coursework to support classroom teaching, dual-credit instruction, professional advancement, or stronger subject-matter preparation as educators.
- The curriculum is intended to help educators better explain mathematical concepts, anticipate where students struggle, and connect advanced mathematics to classroom instruction.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of Indiana University Kokomo are generally favorable, with students describing a school that is easy to navigate and supported by knowledgeable instructors. Several reviewers highlight a financial aid office that communicates clearly and helps keep requirements on track. Affordability is a recurring strength, especially for those comparing options across the state. One reviewer was frustrated by transfer credits not being accepted cleanly, which led to repeating similar coursework. Advising also appears inconsistent, with missed or delayed appointments causing unnecessary friction.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 119 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 69%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The university states that online students can collaborate with faculty on conference presentations, peer-reviewed journal publications, fellowship applications, and even book chapters.
- Instead of separating mathematics from computing, this M.S. in mathematics online intentionally integrates computational and analytical skills that align with current technical fields.
- The university offers an optional Dual-Credit Mathematics Teaching Credential, giving educators an additional pathway that many applied mathematics programs do not include.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews for Texas A&M University - Central Texas skew positive, with many describing a supportive academic environment that boasts flexible course formats which make it easier to balance school with work and other responsibilities. Several reviewers praise instructors for being invested in helping them understand material, stay on track, and even identify job opportunities. The school is also seen as having useful academic resources, solid technology, and a curriculum that feels rigorous but manageable. Cost and convenience are recurring advantages, especially for those seeking affordability and scheduling flexibility. Negative reviews cite enrollment, transcript processing, advising, and financial aid as inconsistent.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 418 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
Yearly tuition is one of the best ways to compare the cost of online master's in mathematics programs, but it doesn't always reflect what you'll pay to earn your degree in full. Program length plays an important role.
For example, The University of West Florida and North Carolina Central University both have two-year programs with estimated total tuition under $9,000, while Appalachian State University has a lower annual tuition than several schools farther down the list but a longer 30-month timeline, resulting in a higher estimated total cost.
Therefore, comparing both annual tuition and expected time to graduation provides a more complete picture of a program's true cost.
Stories Behind the Cheapest Online Master's in Mathematics Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
One of the Strongest Values for Out-of-State Students
Nicholls State University
Nicholls State stands out because it remains affordable regardless of where students live. Its annual out-of-state tuition is just $6,778, one of the lowest nonresident prices in the rankings and only modestly higher than its $5,685 in-state tuition. Pair that with a 96% recommendation rate (one of the highest on the list) and Nicholls becomes an especially compelling option for students seeking an affordable online mathematics master's without relocating.
Where Pure Mathematics Meets Modern Computation
North Carolina Central University
NCCU is unusual because it refuses to treat mathematics as a collection of isolated disciplines. Few online programs advertise faculty expertise spanning Algebraic Topology, Lie Theory, Cryptography, Quantum Groups, Numerical PDEs, Bioinformatics, Fluid Dynamics, Optimization, and Data Science simultaneously. Students aren't choosing between "pure" or "applied" mathematics. Instead, they're entering an environment where those areas intentionally overlap.
Preparing Better Mathematics Teachers, Not Just Mathematicians
Appalachian State University
Many universities add education courses onto a mathematics degree. Appalachian State does something different: it builds graduate mathematics around becoming a better teacher. Whether students pursue community college instruction or secondary education, the curriculum continually returns to pedagogy 鈥� problem-based learning, assessment, technology integration, collaborative instruction, and mathematical communication.
FAQs About an Affordable Online Master's in Mathematics
Can You Earn an Affordable Mathematics Master's Degree Fully Online?
With as many as , mathematics is an extremely broad field. A master's in this discipline focuses on the study of applied, computational, and theoretical mathematics. In turn, graduates can either pursue careers as professional mathematicians and statisticians, or enroll in a doctoral graduate program in mathematics.
Distance education is becoming increasingly common, making it easier for students to pursue a master's of science in mathematics online. An online degree program allows students to pace their learning and complete courses according to their own schedule. Many universities and schools offer online master's degrees in mathematics. These programs are typically 30-36 credit hours and are designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time students, however, tend to take longer to finish.
What Courses Are Included in an Affordable Online Master's in Mathematics?
Students pursuing a master's degree in mathematics, whether online or on campus, study both applied and theoretical concepts, including algebra, topology, statistics, and calculus. Electives often cover STEM areas like computer science, engineering, and physics. Programs typically offer a choice between a thesis track, involving a research project, and a non-thesis track, which includes final examinations. Specializations may include interdisciplinary fields like biomathematics or areas such as mathematical education, actuarial mathematics, and probability.
Below are some of the courses commonly found in master's-level mathematics programs:
- Applied Mathematics: This class covers various uses for math in different professional fields, such as physics, finance, engineering, and medicine. Faculty discuss the models and methods appropriate for each field. Topics can include computational tools, the effects of random processes, and the use of statistics.
- Cryptography and Cryptanalysis: Students learn how numbers can be used to encode and decode information. Key topics include ciphers, key exchange, number fields, and cryptosystems. Most sections require students to decode examples of various ciphers and also create ciphers of their own.
- Differential Equations: Faculty illuminate how differential equations can model system behavior. Students learn the differences between ordinary and partial differential equations and initial- and boundary-value problems. Some applications may be taught, though in less detail than in an Applied Mathematics course.
- Foundations of Advanced Mathematics: This is an introductory course that covers the basic principles of several mathematical subdisciplines. Lessons may touch on abstract and linear algebra, elementary number theory, logic, and functions. Most higher-level courses will require this as a prerequisite.
- Topics in Algebra: This course introduces graduate-level algebra concepts. These include group theory, field theory, and commutative and noncommutative algebra. Depending on the length of the course, faculty may discuss more advanced topics such as infinite fields and vector spaces.
How Can You Pay for an Online Master's in Mathematics?
Tuition rates for an online mathematics master's can vary significantly. The most affordable math degree on our list costs $5,765 annually. In comparison, the average in-state tuition cost of a master's degree is , according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Online master's students in mathematics have a number of available financial aid opportunities. The best options are funds that students don't need to repay, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Online students can also apply for loans, preferably low-interest federal or state loans. Prospective students should check with each school's financial aid office to find out which aid programs the school participates in.
Most students start by filling out the (FAFSA), which is used to determine financial need and eligibility for aid. Students with undocumented immigration status may be able to complete a state-specific aid application because they may not be eligible for federal aid. These applicants should check the website for financial aid programs in the state where they want to enroll.
Many colleges and private donors provide endowed scholarships and grants to mathematics students in an effort to increase nationwide math literacy. There are a number of general programs as well as opportunities for women and groups historically underrepresented in STEM fields. Below are a couple of the scholarships available to students pursuing a master's in math:
- : The association awards amounts of $2,000-$12,000 to help women fund their master's degrees.
- : This award covers up to $12,000 in tuition and fees and grants a $34,000 living stipend to students pursuing original STEM research.
What Careers Can You Pursue With an Affordable Master's in Mathematics?
A master's in mathematics equips students with valuable quantitative, reasoning, and problem-solving skills, opening up careers in various industries, including business, research, education, and technology. Specializing in areas such as mathematical computer science can lead to specific opportunities in information technology and research. While a bachelor's degree suffices for some roles, a master's is often required to work as a professional mathematician in business, healthcare, and government. Below is a list of careers for graduates with a master's in mathematics:
analyze risk to help businesses minimize their financial costs. They typically work in insurance, but also evaluate sources of uncertainty in other sectors such as government.
- Salary: $125,770 per year
- Job Growth: 22% (much faster than average)
collect and analyze biological data. They collaborate with other data scientists to draw general conclusions about living things, and their work is often important in developing new drugs or cures.
- Salary: $105,650 annual
- Job Growth: 7%+ (faster than average)
need a master's degree and work in many different industries. They use statistical concepts and software to solve problems for businesses and clients. They also communicate research findings to nontechnical audiences.
- Salary: $104,350 per year
- Job Growth: 8% (faster than average)
use opinion polls, interviews, and other data collection techniques to discover what people think about a variety of topics. Their work can range from conducting polls during an election year, to understanding why people prefer a particular consumer product.
- Salary: $63,380 per year
- Job Growth: -5% (decline)
How Do You Know if an Affordable Online Mathematics Master's Is Right for You?
Whether a master's in math is worth it will depend on your career goals, previous experience, personal interests, finances, and other responsibilities. A master's degree in math can open the door to any number of highly paid jobs in finance, business, and technology. It may help to consider some of the following pros and cons of pursuing your mathematics degree online:
Potential Advantages
- Graduates with a master's degree in math have high earning potential. for these positions are commonly well into the six-figure range, according to median salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While a master's degree is not required for most entry-level roles in these fields, it can qualify you for higher salaries and advanced positions.
- Math majors learn skills that are applicable for a variety of different careers. People who earn their master's in math also go on to become data scientists, software engineers, data analysts, and mathematics teachers. Depending on your previous education, experience, and career goals, a master's degree in math may help you secure one of these positions.
- Online master's programs offer a range of conveniences and greater flexibility. Online courses are often more affordable than campus-based programs and can be well-suited for students who need to fit classes around a busy schedule or prefer to work independently.
Potential Disadvantages
- Learning remotely isn't for everyone. To be successful, distance learners should be self-disciplined, able to manage their time effectively, and have the technical skills needed to operate in a remote environment.
- There may be a more relevant master's degree that will help you better reach your professional goals. For instance, if you hope to teach mathematics, a master's of education with a concentration in this field is a better option. Alternatively, if you're interested in working with data or in a business area such as marketing - but still want an understanding of mathematical concepts - a master's in applied statistics may be a better choice for a degree.
- The specialized nature of the coursework can be challenging and may require a substantial commitment to succeed, which could be a drawback for those who need to balance other responsibilities such as work or family.
Determining whether an online master's in mathematics is worth it depends on individual circumstances such as career goals, previous experience, personal interests, and financial situation. While the degree can lead to high-paying jobs and advanced positions in finance, business, and technology, it requires self-discipline and effective time management skills to succeed in a remote learning environment. Additionally, prospective students should consider whether a more specialized degree might better align with their professional aspirations, as alternative programs like a master's in education or applied statistics might be more relevant for certain career paths.
Explore out list of the most affordable online colleges and degrees for more options.
Student Reviews of Online Mathematics Programs
I would recommend anyone to study at SNHU, mainly because of the flexibility in studies that they offer. If you have a busy and tight schedule this is the right institution for you. The school has fully online programs that you can complete on a flexible schedule. Overall, it is a great institution for your higher learning.
Review Date: 3/18/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Colorado Heights University offers a small, student centered learning environment that can be appealing for those who prefer close interaction with instructors and more personalized academic environment. The university stands out for its diverse, international student community which creates cultural rich atmosphere and encourages global persepectives.
Review Date: 3/19/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I would recommend anyone to study at SNHU, mainly because of the flexibility in studies that they offer. If you have a busy and tight schedule this is the right institution for you. The school has fully online programs that you can complete on a flexible schedule. Overall, it is a great institution for your higher learning.
Review Date: 3/18/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I highly recommend this online mathematics graduate program at Emporia State University. The professors are engaged in your learning and respond to your emails. Some professors teach hybrid classes, others simply have weekly online video chats, and others create tutorial PDFs that lead you through learning. What they have in common is that they are good at teaching math.
Review Date: 5/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My graduate program has allowed me the flexibility to take courses in order to fulfill the requirements but stay within my interest area. In addition, classes during the school year are offered online, and in the summer we come to campus.
Review Date: 4/10/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The University of the Cumberlands is a great school that offers an outstanding education. Their classes are great for anyone working a full time job and wanting to continue their education. In this, they offer a wide variety of online classes aimed to fit your schedule.
Review Date: 3/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Pros: All online Very prestigious Applied curriculum Affordable Cons: Few financial aid options
Review Date: 12/29/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was leery of any graduate math program - how do you learn math online?? This program has proved me wrong! Emporia has figured out a wonderful system for online learning of mathematics using a combination of video, office hours, notes, and message boards. Professors are very supportive and available. The tuition was the most reasonable for an accredited degree. The work load can be difficult but on par with graduate level work. The available courses cover a wide range of topics. I highly recommend... Read More
Review Date: 3/18/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I can only speak for the curriculum as I was a 100% online student. Courses were fairly difficult, as they should be, but not being able to talk to my fellow peers and professors in person made it a bit harder than if I were in person.
Review Date: 9/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a strictly-online student, and the program so far seems to be better than any of the other online programs I had been looking into. Faculty and staff are readily available to answer questions, and the online format is fairly intuitive. The only thing that I could possibly complain about is the fact that the student must find a test proctor each semester to administer exams. Granted, this is to maintain academic integrity of the program, but it is mildly stressful to find this resource at times.... Read More
Review Date: 2/18/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Northwestern offers a great opportunity for any graduate students looking to continue working a full time job while studying. Between offering both recorded session videos and live web streams, the content is highly accessible, and can easily tailor to any student's busy schedule. Having office hours similar to an on-site program is extremely helpful and Northwestern's School of Professional Studies offers the student every opportunity to be successful, not only in the program, but after graduation... Read More
Review Date: 2/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My graduate program is great because during the school year it is completely online and during the summer we go to campus. I was also pleased that I was able to take some of my classes through the Adult & Higher Education Department because I teach at the College level which is different from most of my peers in the program. The only drawback is the cost in the summer is steep and I don't get any tuition assistance from MSU even though I work .85 FTE during the school year.
Review Date: 2/1/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Some professors are exactly my style, and others are not. But they all push you to do very well. The distance aspect of the distance program is done perfectly. It feels like you are in a classroom watching a lecture, and you can even participate and ask questions. In fact, it is expected that you do so:)
Review Date: 4/23/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am pursuing my master's degree in mathematics at WKU. I have been pleased with the quality of the rigor of the material that I am learning. I no longer have concern with an online degree in Mathematics. The faculty are more accessible than I could ever ask. I will be proud of the degree I will have earned.
Review Date: 3/17/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have really enjoyed my classes so far. Its tough, but doable. I am currently working full time, so the flexibility has been great. Its hard not being in the same city as the school.
Review Date: 4/25/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Western Governors University worked out perfect for me. All courses are online and you work at your own pace. There are student advisers as well as course advisers. The student adviser helps you stay on track. The course advisers are there if you need assistance with a specific class. I took almost two and a half years to finish my Masters in Math Education, but there were people at graduation who finished in a year or year and a half. It's all up to you. You can qualify for financial aid and that... Read More
Review Date: 5/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have loved pretty much every aspect of Texas A&M. The course load is challenging, but the education you receive is absolutely worth the difficulty. My program is a completely online masters program in mathematics, so I expected less of a connection with professors before I began. However they are always very easy to communicate with and (since I am living in town) I can even pop in on their office hours if need be. This has been the perfect option for me as I teach full time while taking classes.... Read More
Review Date: 5/25/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The graduate degree in applied math online at the university of washington is excellent. The staff and faculty is always ready to answer questions and help with whatever I need. No cons at this point in my work.
Review Date: 8/8/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pros- fully online, but uses blackboard collaborate, so you feel you are in a classroom. Cons- online classes sometimes make it harder to communicate.
Review Date: 2/9/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I've been to several colleges in my acedemic career. The people at Texas A&M regularly went above and beyond to help me succeed. Sometimes professors get so caught up in their research, they forget about students. As a culture, I didn't feel like this was the case at Texas A&M.
Review Date: 5/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes