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Cheapest Online Masters in Mathematics

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Updated: March 11, 2024, Reading time: 7 minutes

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The cheapest online master’s in mathematics was the first thing that came to mind when I wanted to further my education and didn’t have sufficient funds. Since 2001, tuition fees have tripled, posing many challenges during the decision of my master’s.

If you have the same difficulties finding an affordable master’s in mathematics, please continue to read as I divulge all my discoveries.

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

Top 7 Cheapest Online Masters in Mathematics

Deciding which masters degree is the best for you is a challenging quest. Indeed, prices play one of the main roles in the decisions. However, other factors also play a crucial part. These criteria include:

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Over the years, I’ve compiled the top seven cheapest online masters in mathematics, where some of the best all-around mathematics masters are reported based on the above factors. However, it is essential to remember that each has different personal preferences, so the following universities are not listed in any particular order.

Emporia University

Location: Emporia, Kansas

Tuition: The annual tuition ranges from $9,500 to $16,000 annually.

Emporia State University is renowned for offering a fast-paced master’s degree in mathematics online. The program is a good fit for students who wish to work for the government as they often combine economics and mathematics during the lectures. 

The coursework is fully established online via the school’s learning management system so students can do all their assignments and projects independently. Additionally, the courses are offered in a typical 15- or 16-week academic semester, so there is no difficulty in adapting to the new learning method.

They offer a range of courses that include functions of a standard variable, topology, and vector spaces. The lectures are designed specifically for professionals who want to develop into roles requiring a solid foundation in these topics, so there often is a lot of attention to detail and accurate information.

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Pennwest California

Location: California, Pennsylvania

Tuition: PennWest California offers low tuition to prospective students, ranging from $7,400 to $15,450.

PennWest California (PenWest) is a distinguished public institution providing an innovative online learning experience through its Professional Science Master’s in Applied Mathematics. The program is meticulously designed, blending essential coursework to refine mathematical acumen and cultivate vital career development skills and expertise in statistical data analysis.

The pivotal core courses are science project management, applied cryptography, and advanced multivariate statistics, providing a deep understanding of complex statistical methodologies. This comprehensive program spans 30 credit hours, offering a swift completion path within 13 months.

Integral to the lectures is a capstone course culminating in the acquired knowledge and skills, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience. Graduates emerge equipped with a versatile skill set, often transitioning into dynamic careers such as economists, actuaries, and data scientists.

Indiana State University

Location: Terre Haute, Indiana

Tuition: The university offers an annual tuition range of $14,000 to $19,000.

The College of Graduate and Professional Studies at Indiana State University proudly offers the Accelerated Online Master of Science in Mathematics, providing a flexible pathway for scholars and practitioners alike. 

This dynamic program, designed for completion in just two years, caters to those seeking advanced study or aspiring to teach mathematics at secondary or postsecondary levels. This 33-credit accelerated online Master’s in Math Education at Indiana State University encompasses a comprehensive range of subjects. 

Students can anticipate coursework covering actual variables, mathematics research, mathematical modeling, graph theory, linear programming and optimization, commutative algebra, and more. Additionally, with an additional eighteen credits of elective classes, students can tailor their learning experience to align with their specific interests and career goals.

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Sam Houston State University

Location:  Huntsville, Texas

Tuition: Sam Houston State University has a tuition price ranging from $7,500 to $19,000. 

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a distinguished government institution and establishment offering a comprehensive online Master of Arts in Mathematics program, requiring the completion of 36 credit hours. The course duration varies, spanning one to two years based on individual course loads. 

Tailored for those with a passion for teaching mathematics at the secondary or postsecondary level or those gearing up for doctoral programs, the curriculum is meticulously crafted. Graduates emerge well-equipped for diverse career paths, including roles as college mathematics professors, financial analysts, and mathematicians.

The program encompasses engaging courses such as Research Project in Math Education, Transformational Geometry, and Concepts in Analysis. Additionally, students undertake a directed reading and research course, an oral comprehensive exam, and a 12-hour minor, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Central Methodist University

Location: Fayette, Missouri

Tuition: The tuition rate at this school ranges from $6,000 to $12,000.

As a private, nonprofit organization, Central Methodist University is closely associated with the United Methodist Church. Full-time students can complete their education faster than other degrees with a one-year program completion deadline. The school offers a master’s in mathematics ranked among the best accelerated online master’s in mathematics.

Exit exams need a campus visit, although most coursework is accessible via the school’s online portal, which supports synchronous and asynchronous study. The online arrangement, divided into 16-week courses, is modeled after the conventional academic calendar. 

Online learners complete 31 credit hours of study to gain a thorough grasp, and they conclude their studies with written and oral exit tests. With courses like Introduction to Real Analysis, Writing Mathematical Documents including LaTex, and Introduction to Complex Variables, the curriculum highlights a variety of subjects. It offers a well-rounded education for those pursuing advanced studies at Central Methodist University.

Two students sitting and studying together holding a coffee, laptop and notebook

University of West Florida

Location: Pensacola, Florida

Tuition: This ranges between $11,600 and $15,000 per year.

The University of West Florida offers a highly flexible and accelerated online Master’s in Mathematics, catering to pre-service and in-service professionals keen on advancing their graduate studies. Within this mathematics education program, students can tailor their academic journey by selecting either a thesis or a non-thesis track.

This fully online MS in Mathematical Sciences boasts a curriculum delivered through the university’s robust online learning management system, requiring 30 credit hours of coursework. Completing the lectures full-time allows students to graduate within a reasonable timeframe of two years or 24 months.

The curriculum encompasses a range of courses, such as Advanced Numerical Analysis, Statistical Inference, and Matrix Theory, providing a well-rounded and comprehensive exploration of the mathematical sciences.

University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley

Location: Edinburg, Texas

Tuition: The tuition for this prestigious school is $15,000 per year or more.

The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) is a leading institution with its Graduate College offering a comprehensive Master of Science (MS) degree in mathematics. Tailored for educators aspiring to impact students across diverse mathematical levels, the program presents four distinct academic emphases: industrial and applied mathematics, statistics, mathematics teaching, and mathematics.

Delivered through the university’s virtual portal, this course provides flexibility with 16-week sessions featuring synchronous and asynchronous courses. Graduation within two years is achievable for those enrolling in three courses per term. 

The degree completion requirements encompass a master’s project or thesis, a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, and a comprehensive written and oral exit exam. Learners may be required to take stimulating courses such as Ordinary Differential Equations and Numerical Methods for Partial, gaining a robust foundation in both the applied and theoretical domains of mathematics. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Factors Make an Online Master’s Program in Mathematics Affordable?

Affordability often stems from reduced on-campus costs, lower tuition rates, and flexibility in course delivery, allowing students to continue working while studying.

Are There Scholarships Available for Online Master’s in Mathematics Programs?

Yes, many institutions offer scholarships or financial aid to help offset the costs of pursuing an online master’s in mathematics.

Are Online Degrees in Mathematics Considered as Valuable as Traditional Degrees by Employers?

Yes, employers increasingly recognize the value of online degrees, especially from accredited institutions, making them equally valuable to traditional degrees.

Cheapest Online Masters in Mathematics - fact

Conclusion

Exploring affordable mathematics education unlocks enriching possibilities without straining your finances. Obtaining a master’s degree becomes a financially feasible venture. Embrace the convenience of online masters, where quality meets cost-effectiveness, ensuring a wise investment in both your academic and professional journey.

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.