As an aspiring teacher, you have so many more opportunities to study online than did previous generations. A real gap has formed in the coverage of teaching middle school subjects, even mathematics, which has a fair reputation for a stronger job market than other more humanities-based curricula. Some of this is geographic, but also communities are working hard to draw those, maybe teachers like you, who need the opportunity to perform what you love to do.
As education opportunities grow, so do expectations of how much training you will need. Some specialize in data collection, statistics, or computer science. Of course, you may be among the returners to academia, seeking a first or second graduate degree to improve your salary or move on to where you will be paid properly as an MAT graduate. Online study may get you there sooner with schools that have given thoughtful attention to the needs of new generations of non-traditional distance learners. Our rankings take this attention to technical and student into account.
Preparation for teaching mathematics alone is considered highly portable across employment categories such as financial advising or positions where the masters is widely expected, such as coordinators or superintendents.
It is definitely worth your money and time to go for that advanced degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for teachers with a master’s degree is $65,300. The breakdown by grade levels taught is shown in the following chart that compares salaries earned by those with a bachelor’s degree versus those with a master’s.
Elementary School: $59,300 (Bachelor’s), $63,350 (Master’s)
Middle School: $61,550 (Bachelor’s), $66,150 (Master’s)
High School: $62,050 (Bachelor’s), $67,350 (Master’s)
The schools reviewed in this report have been researched and evaluated utilizing the criteria in the charts below. Where a tie occurs, points will be awarded for lower tuition.
US News Online Graduate Ranking:
- Top 10 – 5 points
- Top 50 – 4 points
- Top 100 – 3 points
- Top 150 – 2 points
- Top 200 – 1 point
Cost per Credit Hour:
- $400 and under – 5 points
- $500 and under – 4 points
- $600 and under – 3 points
- $1,000 and under – 2 points
- $1,600 and under – 1 point
Payscale.com ROI Ranking:
- Top 200 – 5 points
- Top 400 – 4 points
- Top 800 – 3 points
- Top 1,000 – 2 points
- Top 1,200 – 1 point
Regional Accreditation: 5 points
#20 – Concordia University Portland
Portland, Oregon
Online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction: Mathematics
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 7
The master of education in curriculum and instruction – mathematics online at Concordia University – Portland is a 30 credit program without an on-campus component. The degree is made up of three parts, core classes, concentration classes, and research classes. In addition to a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 2.8, a completed work history form, and a statement of interest with the admissions packet. Tuition for the online MEd in curriculum and instruction given online by Concordia University Portland is $697 per credit hour.
#19 – Lesley University
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Online MEd in Mathematics Education
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: 1142nd
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 8
Beyond the basics of competence in mathematics, the 100% online master of education in mathematics education at Lesley University, you will build the latest crucial skills in the assessment and delivery of content. The program has been approved for licensure in elementary 1-6 and in mathematics 1-6 and 5-8. Lesley University has arranged the 33 credit hour online MAT to orient graduates toward licensure, which the school site suggests should take two years if summers are included. This track is part-time so your ideal path may vary. Also varied are the tuition rates, which range between $300 and $1000 per credit hour, depending on your licensure and subject matter.
#18 – Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
MS in Mathematics and Secondary Education – Grades 7-12 Online
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: 995th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The online master of science in mathematics and secondary education – grades 7-12 at New York’s Mercy College is a 36 credit hour degree that features a program track leading to eligibility for New York State initial teaching certification, if desired. The mathematics specialization includes coursework in the history of mathematics and problem-solving in mathematics. Tuition for the online MS in mathematics and secondary education – grades 7-12 is $872 per semester hour. Mercy College is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
#17 – Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, Utah
Online MA in Mathematics Education
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
Western Governors University master’s in mathematics education has a number of paths available to those that are ready to train and measure the next generation of math students. Regarding eligibility, please note that the program is for teachers with certification and bachelor’s. As a distance-learning leader, the university expects students to graduate with a 6-24 month window, depending on student situation. Regarding the online MA in mathematics education, Western Governors University advertises that the total cost per term will be $3385 after a one-time application fee of $60.
#16 – Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
MS in Education with a specialization in Mathematics Education Online
US News Ranking: 166th
Payscale Ranking: 655th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
Nova Southeastern University’s online master of science in education with a specialization in mathematics education can be completed with 36 credit hours of study. Coursework the program will tackle includes strategies for teaching calculus and algebra in secondary schools. The admissions process here includes a $50 application fee and evidence of a previously conferred bachelor’s degree. Nova Southeastern University charges a tuition rate of $1,025 per credit hour for the MSEd with a specialization in mathematics education online. The school site emphasizes the value of applied professional experience for future science educators.
#15 – Wilkes University
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Online Master’s in Middle Level Education with a concentration in Middle Level Mathematics
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: 907th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
Coming in at $517 per unit of instruction, the master’s in middle level education with a concentration in middle level mathematics online from Wilkes University can be completed with 36 credits including certification preparation. There is also a 30 unit degree only program available. The school is looking for applicants who can provide evidence of a strong academic record and two recommendations. Wilkes University’s online master’s in middle level education with a concentration in middle level mathematics is available 100% online.
#14 – University of North Georgia
Dahlonega, Georgia
MEd in Middle Grades Math and Science Online
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
With no campus visit required, the 100% online master of education in middle grades math and science at the University of North Georgia is a 36 hour degree students can complete in just four semesters. This program is taught by a combination of faculty from UNG and Valdosta State University. Regular degree-seeking applicants to the program should be able to provide a cumulative 2.75 GPA for undergraduate work and be a certified teacher working at least 20 hours per week with students. The MEd online in middle grades math and science offered by the University of North Georgia charges an online graduate tuition rate of $385 for students inside Georgia and out.
#13 – Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
MEd in Middle Grades Education Online
US News Ranking: 200th
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
For several years Kennesaw State University has been developing a master of education degree program in middle grades education. The school advertises the balance of content and measurement. The school asks a reasonable rate of $408 per credit hour. Online students, fortunately, do not need to pay in-person fees such as parking or other mandatory resident charges. Support for your technical, financial, and academic needs are addressed by the Distance Learning Center. Kennesaw State University makes three concentrations available: language arts, social studies, and mathematics. The program emphasizes that the science concentration is not yet fully online.
#12 – University of Colorado Denver
Denver, Colorado
Online MA in Curriculum and Instruction – Mathematics Education
US News Ranking: 126th
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
The online master of arts in curriculum and instruction – mathematics education offered by the University of Colorado Denver is entirely online and designed with working educational professionals in mind. The recommended pace for this degree is one class per Spring and Fall and two classes in the Summer. The University of Colorado Denver features a special discounted online out of state rate of just $448 per credit hour for the MA in curriculum and instruction – mathematics education online.
#11 – Georgia State University
Atlanta, Georgia
Online MEd in Mathematics Education
US News Ranking: 54th
Payscale Ranking: 586th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 12
Accomplished in just 36 credit hours, the online master of education in mathematics education’s main focus is to “strengthen secondary students’ mathematical understanding.” The program is open to students who meet certification requirements at the secondary or middle grade level in the state of Georgia for mathematics education. There is no GRE requirement for application to this degree. Tuition for the MEd in mathematics education online at Georgia State University is $1,521 per credit hour for out of state students.
#10 – University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky
MAT in Secondary Education Online
US News Ranking: 115th
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 12
The University of the Cumberlands online education program features a master of arts in teaching where your concentrations can be any area from elementary education to special education–learning & behavior disorders. In a notable nod to veterans, the school welcomes veterans in its “Troops to Teachers” program, which includes stipend-based funding as well as other support. Tuition for those taking the online MA offered by the University of the Cumberlands is $315 per credit hour for between 33 and 42 hours. A $50 technology fee is assessed each term as well.
#9 – St Joseph’s University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MS in Education – Secondary Education Online
US News Ranking: 105th
Payscale Ranking: 389th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 13
The online master of science in education – secondary education at St Joseph’s University will waive the application fee of $35 if the school receives all application materials within 20 days of the initial application. Two professional recommendations, a letter of intent/personal statement, and a current resume are among the requirements for admission. There is no GRE requirement. $765 per unit of instruction is the going tuition rate for St Joseph University’s MSE – secondary education online.
#8 – Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
MS in Mathematics Education Online
US News Ranking: 126th
Payscale Ranking: 702nd
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 13
Requiring 37 units of graduate study, the online master of science in mathematics education at Northern Arizona University gives students six calendar years to complete the coursework. Application requirements include: three letters of recommendation; a personal statement; and evidence of a 3.0 GPA on a conferred and regionally accredited bachelor’s degree. Northern Arizona University’s online MS in mathematics education charges just $575 per credit hour for graduate tuition. This degree does not lead to an official state teaching certification. If you happen to be international, the program does not admit online students with an F-1 visa.
#7 – Chadron State College
Chadron, Nebraska
MEd – Curriculum and Instruction: Secondary – Mathematics Concentration Online
US News Ranking: Not in Top 200
Payscale Ranking: Not Listed
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 13
Chadron State College is proud to offer an online master of education in curriculum and instruction – secondary mathematics concentration that is a 36 credit hour program. The degree consists of seven core courses in the art and science of teaching and five courses in the concentration. This will not lead to additional endorsement or certification in subject areas. The online out of state graduate tuition rate is $442.50 per credit for the MEd in curriculum and instruction – secondary mathematics concentration at Chadron State College.
#6 – University North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
Online MAT in Middle and Secondary Education
US News Ranking: 29th
Payscale Ranking: 324th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
Open to students who have completed the graduate certificate in teaching middle and secondary education program, the University of North Carolina Charlotte’s master of arts in teaching in middle and secondary education can result in an “M” or advanced teaching license in the Tarheel State. The program (including the degree and the certificate) is 39 hours long. Students must have a GPA of 3.5 or above in the graduate certificate to enter the program. Students without this GPA may be accepted with acceptable GRE or MAT scores.
#5 – Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Online MS in Mathematics Learning and Teaching
US News Ranking: 54
Payscale Ranking: 134th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 15
The 45-46 quarter credit hour online master of science in mathematics learning and teaching developed by Drexel University focuses both on instructional practices that are student-centered and teacher leadership skills that allow individuals to better advocate in their home schools. The program is looking for individuals with a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, with provisional acceptance available for otherwise qualified individuals not meeting that criteria. Drexel University offers an online tuition rate of $949 per credit hour (which they advertise as a 25% savings over traditional students) for the MS in mathematics learning and teaching online.
#4 – University of Nebraska Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska
Online MAT in Mathematics
US News Ranking: 9th
Payscale Ranking: 334th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 16
The University of Nebraska Lincoln’s online master of arts in teaching in mathematics can be accomplished in just 36 credit hours. Applicants to the program should have a current mathematics teaching certificate, three letters of recommendation, and a written personal statement as part of their submission to the admissions committee. The degree is made up of three core courses and nine electives. The University of Nebraska Lincoln charges an online out of state graduate tuition rate of $628.50 for the MAT in mathematics online.
#3 – Montana State University
Bozeman, Montana
MS in Mathematics – Mathematics Education Option Online
US News Ranking: 100th
Payscale Ranking: 301st
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
Montana State University’s master of science in mathematics – mathematics education option is an online degree that can be completed in 2-3 years. GRE scores are not required as part of the admissions process. Two or more years of professional teaching experience and an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 are part of the admissions process. There is a screening and advising first step to the process to let you know how good of a “fit” the program is before you get too involved in the process.
#2 – University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Online MEd in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum with an emphasis in Mathematics Education
US News Ranking: 38th
Payscale Ranking: 285th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
The University of Missouri’s master of education in learning, teaching, and curriculum with an emphasis in mathematics education online is a 30 credit hour program with no on-campus portion. Applicants to the program should be sure to include evidence of a 3.0 GPA over the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework and two years of teaching experience in a relevant field with the admission packet. $433.37 per credit hour is the online graduate tuition rate for the online MEd in learning teaching and curriculum with an emphasis in mathematics education.
#1 – University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
MA in Secondary Mathematics Online
US News Ranking: 46th
Payscale Ranking: 289th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
University of Arkansas has an online master of arts in secondary mathematics degree, the estimated cost of which is approximately $420 in tuition and around $45 for typical fees. Students in the Fullbright College of Arts and Sciences expects a minimum of 12 hours of graduate-level mathematics to complete the degree. In addition to typical pedagogy, the school also offers curriculum development and advanced assessment. The 100% online, 30-credit MA degree in secondary mathematics at the University of Arkansas does not require GRE scores.
