Best Online Master’s in Math Education
Math education master’s degrees train candidates in math concepts, teaching strategies, classroom technologies, research skills, cultural considerations, and the history of math education.
A master’s in math education helps current math teachers advance their careers. After earning a master’s degree, educators can pursue leadership roles in their schools. The degree also appeals to people considering a career change into mathematics education. An online master’s in mathematics prioritizes flexibility, allowing working professionals to complete a graduate degree on their schedule.
The federal TEACH Grant program considers mathematics a high-need field in education. As a result, demand for math teachers will likely increase in the future. By earning a master’s degree in math education, educators can stand out on the job market.
Our list ranks the top online math education master’s programs to help prospective students find the best fit for their schedules and career goals. This article also covers program selection, certificates and licenses for math teachers, and other career opportunities for professionals with a math education master’s degree.
The Best Master’s in Math Education Online Programs
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Harrisonburg, Virginia, James Madison University offers an online master's in math education. The master of education in mathematics program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates may advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores math education research and methodologies. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with a background in math education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
James Madison University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of education in mathematics
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,848
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,888
- In-State$7,250
- Out-of-state$23,564
- In-State$10,848
- Out-of-state$27,888
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled21,820
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment8%
- AccreditationYes
University at Buffalo
- Buffalo, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in New York, the University at Buffalo hosts a top-ranked master's in math education program. The M.Ed. in math education studies program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The M.Ed. curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in math education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in math education.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University at Buffalo at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Math education studies, M.Ed.
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$24,740
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled31,923
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's degree in math education at Georgia State University, located in Atlanta, offers high academic quality. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous M.Ed. in mathematics education program. After completing a master's degree, candidates advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in math education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in math education or a related field for those applying.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities build hands-on experience and professional connections.
Georgia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Mathematics education, M.Ed.
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,164
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,662
- In-State$7,158
- Out-of-state$22,389
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled35,041
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online math education degree can enroll in the master's program at Ball State University, located in Muncie. The master's in mathematics education program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in math education. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in math education or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build hands-on experience and professional connections.
Ball State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master's degree in mathematics education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,850
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,954
- In-State$9,358
- Out-of-state$26,138
- In-State$8,850
- Out-of-state$21,954
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled22,443
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY Brockport
- Brockport, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in math education degree at SUNY Brockport, located in New York, prioritizes flexibility. The master's in adolescence mathematics builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in math education. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants with a background in math education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
SUNY College at Brockport at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 55%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of science in education: adolescence mathematics
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled7,924
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in math education degree at East Carolina University, located in Greenville, uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master's in mathematics education program. After earning a master's degree, candidates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in math education. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in math education or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 79%
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Program Name: Master of arts in education - mathematics education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers an online master's in math education. The master of education with a math specialist endorsement builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the math education field and related industries. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to math education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The master's program recommends a background in math education or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of education - math specialist endorsement
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
- In-State$15,417
- Out-of-state$15,417
- In-State$7,980
- Out-of-state$7,980
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled85,586
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Virginia Beach, Regent University offers an online master's in math education. The M.Ed. in leadership in mathematics education program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the math education field. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program builds on prior math education experience gained during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Regent University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 37
Program Name: M.Ed. in leadership in mathematics education
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,552
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,552
- In-State$17,220
- Out-of-state$17,220
- In-State$15,552
- Out-of-state$15,552
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled10,365
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University offers an online master's in math education. The master's in mathematics learning and teaching program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to math education. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in math education or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 39
Program Name: Master of science in mathematics learning and teaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $35,181
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,181
- In-State$52,146
- Out-of-state$52,146
- In-State$35,181
- Out-of-state$35,181
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled24,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona University hosts a top-ranked master's in math education program. The master's in mathematics education program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to math education. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends a background in math education or a related field for applicants.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in networking events to grow their professional connections.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Program Name: Mathematics education, master of science
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,305
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,522
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Masters
Math Education
2023
Online Master’s in Math Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat Is an Online Master’s in Math Education?
An online master’s in mathematics education prepares graduates for leadership roles in education, including lead teacher, department head, and instructional coordinator. During a math education program, graduate students take courses in teaching math at the secondary level and instructional strategies for math education. The degree blends mathematics and education coursework to build strong teaching and analytical skills.
In some programs, math education students complete a practicum or teaching assignment to gain experience. Master’s students may also complete a project or thesis to demonstrate their mastery of math education.
Earning a master’s in math education generally takes two years for full-time students. Some programs also offer an accelerated, one-year path to the degree. The online learning format appeals to working educators seeking career advancement.
Choosing an Online Master’s in Math Education Program
Prospective graduate students in math education should research several factors when choosing a program, including cost, program length, and school reputation. For example, when it comes to cost, online learners should look into possible tuition discounts, including in-state tuition rates for out-of-state students.
Applicants can also consider program-specific factors, such as the availability of specializations, graduation requirements, and field experience requirements. Some math education programs require a teaching practicum, which distance learners can complete in their local area, while other programs do not require field experience.
What Is the Difference Between a Master of Arts (MA), a Master of Science (MS), and a Master of Education (M.Ed.)?
When considering an online master’s in mathematics, prospective students must choose between an MA, MS, and M.Ed. All three programs train graduates for classroom roles as math educators. However, the courses and emphasis areas often differ. An M.Ed. degree prioritizes classroom-ready skills and pedagogical methods. An MA or MS takes a more academic focus, emphasizing research and theory.
Some schools offer multiple options to earn a master’s in mathematics. However, not every master’s program in math education meets the requirements for educator certification. Prospective students should consider their career goals and needs when choosing between an MA, MS, and M.Ed. in math.
What Is the Difference Between a Master’s in Math Education and a Master’s in Mathematics?
The degrees prepare graduates for different career paths. A master’s degree in math education emphasizes teaching skills and techniques, while a master’s in mathematics focuses on advanced math theories and methods.
A math education degree leads to opportunities as a middle school or high school math teacher, while a master’s in mathematics trains graduates for careers like mathematician, statistician, financial analyst, or economist. Learn more about career opportunities with a mathematics degree with our guide.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Math Education Degrees
Prospective master’s students in education should always check a program’s accreditation status before applying. Accredited schools and programs follow the best practices for educating students. Accredited education degrees also meet the requirements for teaching licenses and board certification. Without a degree from a regionally accredited university, you may not be able to get a teaching license. Plus, only accredited universities can distribute federal financial aid to graduate students.
The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation grants accreditation for education programs. Learn more about why accreditation matters in our accreditation guide.
What Can I Expect When Pursuing a Master’s in Math Education Online?
During a master’s in math education program, graduate students take courses in teaching techniques, learn about strategies for math instruction at different educational levels, and study advanced mathematics. Master’s programs may also offer concentrations or electives in specialized areas like statistics, data analytics, and data science.
Common Courses in Math Education Online Programs
Although curricula vary by institution, many of the best math education programs share core coursework. The following class descriptions provide an overview of what students can expect to take during a math education online master’s program.
- Teaching Secondary Math: Candidates pursuing a master’s in math education online may take this course to examine past and present teaching techniques. Participants learn to consider student comprehension when determining the best teaching strategies. Coursework may also cover instructional tools and lesson plan creation.
- Math Education Research: This class introduces students to research methods applicable to math education, along with techniques for analyzing research results. Learners may examine quantitative and qualitative research practices through current research or explore their own research topics. Coursework may also address how to write research reports and apply findings in math classrooms.
- History of Mathematics: Students examine math concepts and approaches throughout history. Coursework may deliver these ideas based on the civilization (e.g., ancient Greece) or time periods (e.g., the Renaissance). Coursework also addresses historical developments for math subjects and discusses famous mathematicians.
- Math Classrooms and Culture: Participants explore previous cultures’ thoughts on mathematics and the current culture in classrooms. For instance, learners may examine how cultural diversity impacts classrooms or learn how to use a group’s culture to effectively teach math.
- Modern Geometry: This course addresses Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry. Students may encounter axiomatic structures, along with projective, absolute, elliptical, finite, and Mobius geometries. Participants learn about different strategies for exploring these concepts in classrooms. Departments generally design these courses for students who already hold a basic understanding of geometry concepts.
Certificates and Licenses for Math Teachers
Math teachers at public K-12 schools must hold a teaching license issued by their state. The requirements vary by state, but generally candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree and must complete an educator preparation program to earn a teaching license.
For secondary-level teaching licenses or a math endorsement, candidates must also pass an examination of their teaching skills and content knowledge. A master’s degree in math education meets the requirements for a math endorsement.
After earning a teaching license, educators typically need to complete continuing education requirements to renew their credentials regularly. Licensed teachers in one state can often apply for a reciprocal license in another state.
In addition to a teaching license, math educators can also pursue board certification in middle school or high school mathematics. Candidates with a master’s in math education and three years of teaching experience meet the requirements for board certification. Educators must submit portfolios demonstrating their mastery of content knowledge, differentiation in instruction, and teaching practice and learning environment. Candidates must also pass an examination.
Earning board certification can also help math teachers receive a teaching license in another state, since board certification fulfills most state requirements for reciprocity.
Math Education Careers
A master’s degree in math education primarily trains graduates to become math teachers, but the degree can also prepare professionals for careers like mathematician, statistician, financial manager, or accountant.
Graduates can also pursue opportunities in postsecondary math education. Some math careers may require additional education or a professional certification. Learn more about the highest paying mathematics jobs with our guide.
Economists analyze economic data to understand the distribution of resources and to project market trends. They research economic topics and use mathematical techniques to analyze data. Economists also use forecasting techniques to anticipate changes in economic markets. They may advise government bodies or businesses on economic issues. Economists also publish their research in scholarly journals.
Most economists hold a graduate degree, though some entry-level roles hire candidates with only a bachelor’s degree, particularly for government jobs. Economists need strong mathematical and analytical skills. Training in statistical analysis software also helps economists advance.
Mathematicians use mathematical techniques to collect data, solve problems, and analyze information. They may create new mathematical theories or models to analyze data, including designing algorithms. Mathematicians may hold titles like statistician, analyst, or data scientist in addition to mathematician.
Mathematicians work in diverse fields, including healthcare, technology, financial services, and engineering. In the public sector, they analyze data on the economy, the environment, and public health. Mathematicians may also work in research and development. For most roles, mathematicians need a graduate degree. They may also need a background in applied or theoretical mathematics, depending on their career path.
Postsecondary mathematical science teachers, also known as math professors, teach college-level classes on math, statistics, and actuarial science. They introduce learners to mathematical techniques and theories. Math instructors assess student learning through assignments and exams. Many math professors also conduct research in their specialty area and publish their work.
In addition to strong mathematical skills, math instructors rely on their interpersonal and public speaking abilities to teach classes. Generally, postsecondary teachers must hold a doctorate for tenure-track roles. However, educators with a master’s degree may qualify for positions at two-year institutions or in non-tenure-track roles.
Accountants and auditors create financial records, including tax returns, account books, and financial disclosure documents. They examine financial documents to identify inaccuracies and fraud. Accountants and auditors also evaluate an organization’s financial operations to recommend changes. Within the field, professionals may specialize in areas like public accounting, management accounting, internal auditing, or forensic accounting.
Some accountants and auditors need a master’s degree. For example, certified public accountants typically need master’s degrees. Accountants and auditors also need strong mathematical and analytical skills. They may also pursue professional certification to specialize their credentials.
Math Education Professional Organizations
Professional organizations help math graduate students prepare for the workforce. Many of these organizations offer professional development and career resources, including job boards, mentorship opportunities, and networking opportunities. Early career professionals also benefit from continuing education resources, news and research in the field, and information about teaching strategies.
Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators
AMTE hosts a yearly conference that addresses current math education research. Members can view webinars on topics like educational tools and social elements of education. The group also offers the Service, Teaching, and Research Program, which includes a summer institute opportunity, and electronic networking for new educators.National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
This group hosts research conferences and a yearly meeting. Members can access webinars related to Common Core, assessments, and strategies for teaching non-native speakers, as well as workshops on algebra, dimensions, and operations.National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics
This group hosts research conferences and a yearly meeting. Members can access webinars related to Common Core, assessments, and strategies for teaching non-native speakers, as well as workshops on algebra, dimensions, and operations.American Statistical Association
This association offers resources for K-12, undergraduate, and graduate educators. Resources include professional development webinars and workshops. Members can also access field journals, like the Journal of the American Statistical Association. Additionally, the association hosts several meetings, such as the Conference on Statistical Practice and the Symposium on Data Science and Statistics.American Mathematical Society
This society connects members to research journals, including Mathematics of Computation, Representation Theory, and Conformal Geometry and Dynamics. AMS also provides employment assistance through job listings and an employment center.Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Math Education
Can You Get a Master’s in Mathematics?
Yes, many universities offer master’s programs in mathematics. During a graduate program, degree-seekers study advanced mathematics, including differential equations, optimization, and mathematical theory. Graduates find work as mathematicians, statisticians, and math educators.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Math?
A master’s degree in math prepares graduates for careers as mathematicians, statisticians, math instructors, or economists. Completing a master’s degree can help mathematicians advance their careers.
What Are the Top 5 Math Careers?
Some of the best careers for math majors include mathematician, statistician, actuary, economist, and financial analyst. In these roles, professionals rely on their math skills to analyze data.
Is It Worth It to Get a Master’s Degree in Education?
A master’s in education can help educators advance into administrative positions, increase their salary rates, and move into leadership roles like head teacher.
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