Best Online Bachelor's in Mathematics Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

In an online math program, students learn foundational and advanced topics through video lectures, digital textbooks, and interactive tools. Courses are often self-paced, but with clear weekly deadlines. Expect problem sets, coding projects, and exams, plus support from instructors through forums, email, or live sessions.

The program can be challenging, especially if you’re not comfortable with abstract thinking or problem-solving. Some courses, like real analysis or linear algebra, can be tough without regular practice. However, many programs break concepts into manageable units and provide tools like step-by-step problem demos and math labs to help you keep up.

Where can I work with an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Graduates of an online bachelor’s in mathematics find opportunities across industries that rely on data, analysis, and precision. The engineering and consulting firms pay some of the highest salaries for math grads, about $139,670 per year.

Some of the most common workplaces hiring math graduates are:

• Logistics and supply chain companies
• Financial services and insurance firms
• Government agencies
• Healthcare and biotech startups
• Technology and software companies
• Education and edtech platforms
• Market research and consulting firms
• Research institutions and universities

How much can I make with an online bachelor's in mathematics program in 2025?

The median annual wage for math-related occupations is $121,680. Specific roles vary in pay. Actuaries earn a median salary of $125,770, data scientists' average pay is $112,590, and operations research analysts make about $83,640. Entry-level salaries for math graduates typically start between $60,000 and $70,000, depending on the industry and location.

Earnings increase with experience and specialization. Those who pursue roles in finance, tech, or analytics often reach six-figure salaries within a few years. For example, senior data analysts and applied mathematicians working in large firms or government agencies may earn between $110,000 to $150,000. 

Best Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics Programs in 2025

1. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics

Southern New Hampshire University emphasizes flexibility with six start dates per year and generous transfer credit policies. The program offers a general mathematics track and an applied mathematics concentration. Its welcoming admission policy and large online student body make a math degree accessible than most. 

• Cost: $320 per credit
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education
• What Makes It Stand Out: Multiple start dates and high flexibility allow students to begin quickly and move at their own pace.

2. Indiana University–East – Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

The program delivers rigorous core math courses like real analysis, linear algebra, and modern algebra online. It also includes optional certificates in pure or applied math. Indiana University–East allows up to 90 transferable credits and requires just 30 credits at IU East to graduate. 

• Cost: $257 per credit hour (in-state); $737 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Deep content, extensive transfer credit policy, and customizable math tracks.

3. Eastern New Mexico University – BS/BA in Mathematics

Eastern New Mexico University offers a bachelor's degree in mathematics with core coursework in foundational and advanced topics such as College Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus I–III, and upper-level electives in areas such as mathematical modeling, statistics, and data analysis. The program also offers specialization options in theoretical, applied, industrial math, or statistics.

• Cost: $300 per credit hour (in-state); $382 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Broad concentrations and very positive student satisfaction ratings.

4. Central Methodist University – Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Through Central Methodist University’s Bachelor of Science in Mathematics helps build strong quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. It has a curriculum that includes foundational courses like College Algebra, Calculus I–III, Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, and Differential Equations, followed by electives such as Modern Algebra, Real Analysis, and Graph Theory.

• Cost: $260 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Focus on applied projects and personal support in a smaller online learning community.

5. University of Illinois at Springfield – BA in Mathematical Sciences

Admissions at the University of Illinois may require SAT or ACT Math scores for placement into early courses. The program offers a curriculum that covers applied math fundamentals, including operations research and statistics. Students also benefit from strong advising and career support throughout their studies, which helps them stay on track from start to finish.

• Cost: $335 per credit hour (in-state); $433 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: High satisfaction, advising support, and student placement policies for rigor.

6. Mayville State University – BS in Mathematics

Mayville State is offers a fully online B.S. in Mathematics, consisting of 120 credits, including 33 semester hours in core mathematics courses such as trigonometry, calculus, probability and statistics, and differential equations. The program accepts transfer credit extensively and is characterized by small class sizes. 

• Cost: $347.38 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Transfer flexibility and built-in internship opportunities for early career experience.

7. Maryville University – BS in Mathematics

Through Maryville University’s platform, learners select concentrations like statistical modeling, optimization, or advanced calculus, and can also pursue a built‑in data science minor. The structured three-term calendar keeps progress steady and helps students stay on pace. Many graduates report that internships and this curriculum help with early career salary growth.

• Cost: $575 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 128
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Broad specialization options and focus on scalable career outcomes.

8. Louisiana State University (LSU) – Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Louisiana State University’s online mathematics program features faculty-mentored projects to provide guided, real-world learning. Students learn a full mathematics curriculum online that includes advanced calculus, differential equations, and an introduction to programming. Many graduates praise the program for preparing them well for careers in finance, analytics, or actuarial work.

• Cost: $340 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• What Makes It Stand Out: Faculty-led real-world assignments plus balance between theory and application.

9. University of Massachusetts–Lowell – BS in Mathematics

This hybrid mathematics program from the University of Massachusetts Lowell is a 120‑credit program with up to 90 transfer credits. Students can choose between a General Mathematics or STEM Teaching concentration. Upper-division seminars and a senior capstone seminar round out the curriculum.

• Cost: $385 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 126
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• What Makes It Stand Out: Low cost in-region, high graduation rate, and some virtual lab coursework.

10. American Public University – BS in Mathematics

At American Public University, students take core math and elective courses in convenient 8‑ or 16‑week sessions with frequent monthly start dates. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and data modeling and allows extensive credit transfers, including CLEP, DSST, and prior-learning assessments. Many learners choose this option for its scheduling flexibility and ease of incorporating prior credits into a structured degree pathway.

• Cost: $350 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 120
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• What Makes It Stand Out: Flexible credit pathways for working adults and service members.

How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s degree in mathematics?

An online bachelor’s degree in mathematics usually takes four years to finish if pursued full-time. That timeline is based on completing 120 to 125 credit hours, spread across eight semesters. Students typically take 15–16 credits per semester, including both general education and major-specific math courses.

Those exploring accelerated or specialized pathways, such as the best online MSN in forensic nursing programs, should note that timelines vary depending on course sequencing and prerequisites.

Unlike other majors, mathematics programs are highly sequential. You can’t take advanced courses like Real Analysis or Abstract Algebra until you’ve completed courses like Calculus I–III and Linear Algebra. This structure means even highly motivated students can’t speed through the degree without first mastering the earlier foundations.

For part-time students, the timeline may extend to five or even six years. Since most online programs are designed to accommodate working adults, they allow students to take fewer classes per term. However, because certain math courses are only offered once or twice a year, missing a prerequisite can delay an entire track of study.

While some schools offer flexible start dates or even an accelerated online bachelor's in mathematics, the mathematical content still follows a set order. 

How does an online bachelor’s degree in mathematics compare to an on-campus program?

Online students in mathematics programs typically study independently through recorded lectures, online assignments, and virtual office hours. While this flexibility works well for self-paced learners, it can also feel isolating without direct classroom engagement.

In contrast, on-campus students benefit from scheduled classes, face-to-face discussions, and peer collaboration. These factors can make a significant difference in mastering complex topics. Many of today's best online degree programs for working adults help bridge this gap with virtual tutoring, active forums, and regular access to instructors.

The differences between the two setups also show up in outcomes. Students enrolled in fully online programs are about 13% less likely to complete their degree within six years compared to their on-campus peers. 

Still, that doesn’t mean online pathways lack value, especially as they expand access for working adults and nontraditional learners. In fact, interest in the field continues to grow, reflected by the steady rise in the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics over the past decade. 

This upward trend highlights the increasing value of quantitative skills in data-driven industries, whether earned online or on campus.

What is the average cost of an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

An online bachelor’s in mathematics typically costs $36,000 to $68,000 in tuition over the full program. In-state public options often total $36,000, while private schools may reach $60,000 or more. When compared to on-campus costs, online math degrees also save students money on room and board, transport, and campus fees, often reducing overall expenses by $17,000 to $49,000 across four years.

In addition to tuition, students enrolled in an affordable online bachelor's in math should budget for other required costs. Textbooks and digital course materials can range from $285 to $400 per year, though some schools offer open educational resources to reduce this expense. Many programs also charge technology fees, typically $100 to $300 per term, to support virtual platforms and services.

Proctored exams may require third-party services that cost around $20 to $40 per test. While online learners save on housing and commuting, these additional academic costs can add $1,000 to $2,000 annually, depending on the institution

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Since most online learners work part-time or even full-time, they often qualify for part-time aid packages. This often includes federal Pell Grants, state-specific tuition assistance, and low-interest federal loans. Students exploring accelerated or specialized pathways, such as the best online MSN in clinical nurse leadership programs, may also find unique scholarship or tuition assistance options tailored to nursing and healthcare fields.

Federal Pell Grants alone average about $4,875 per student in 2022-23, with maximum awards reaching $7,395 for eligible undergraduates. In addition, many students receive Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), which averages around $736 annually and aids roughly 1.3 million students nationally. 

Employer tuition reimbursement programs are another option. About 48% of U.S. employers offer support for undergraduate degrees, with average annual reimbursements around $5,250 per employee. Large employers such as Walmart, Disney, and Starbucks partner with online institutions to fully or partially fund degrees for eligible staff and their families  

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Most accredited online degree programs require students to complete a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants typically submit official transcripts from high school or any prior college coursework. Some schools don’t require SAT or ACT scores, while others may ask for them if the GPA is low or credits are limited.

Students should also meet foundational math readiness standards. This usually means having completed high school calculus or pre-calculus, or placing into college-level calculus via placement tests. If students lack those prerequisites, they may need to take remediation courses like Precalculus I and II before starting core math classes, extending the total credits from 120 to 126 or more. 

A math degree isn’t considered the easiest college degree, but its clear structure helps students with strong quantitative skills stay on track.

Admissions Process Overview

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent)
• Official transcripts (high school and college)
• Placement in or completion of Pre‑Calculus or placement tests
• Minimum GPA requirement (often around 2.0)
• Optional SAT/ACT depending on institution and prior credits

About 70% of online math programs at top online colleges accept community transfer credits, making the path smoother for students with prior coursework. These admission pathways help working adults and transfer students begin or resume math studies more efficiently.

What courses are typically in an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Unlike some majors that focus heavily on memorization or industry-specific tools, a bachelor’s degree in mathematics is built to train the mind. The coursework is carefully structured to develop logic, abstraction, and deep analytical thinking. Whether students are headed for graduate school, data science, or finance, they all begin with the same foundation: learning how to think in the language of math.

The following core subjects appear across nearly all reputable programs, whether in pure or applied math tracks:

• Calculus I, II, and III
• Linear Algebra
• Differential Equations
• Real Analysis
• Abstract Algebra
• Probability and Statistics

Applied courses such as Mathematical Modeling, Numerical Analysis, and Operations Research also connect theory to real‑world applications in science, technology, and business. 

Most bachelor’s programs also conclude with a capstone project, senior seminar, or optional internship, allowing students to synthesize their learning and apply it to research or industry challenges.

The combination of rigorous theory, computational skills, and application prepares graduates for a variety of careers in education, finance, data analysis, and technology, or for continued study in graduate mathematics or related fields.

What types of specializations are available in an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Not every math major wants to follow the same path, and online bachelor’s programs in mathematics reflect that. Many schools now offer focused tracks that align with specific industries or academic interests.

Students exploring interdisciplinary or healthcare-adjacent options, such as the best online medical assistant associate degree programs, may find that certain math specializations—like statistics or data analysis—complement these pathways. These specializations let students go beyond general theory and build targeted skills in areas like finance, statistics, or applied computation.

Here are common specializations in online bachelor’s in mathematics programs:

• Pure Mathematics – Focuses on abstract theory, logic, and proof-based courses for students aiming at graduate study or academic research.
• Applied Mathematics – Emphasizes real-world problem-solving using models, simulations, and computational tools.
• Statistics or Data Science – Trains students to analyze data, build predictive models, and work with statistical software like R or Python.
• Actuarial Science – Prepares students for actuarial exams with coursework in probability, financial mathematics, and risk modeling.
• Mathematical Finance – Combines mathematics with finance to study investments, markets, and quantitative risk analysis.

Among math specializations, actuarial science offers one of the highest returns on investment. Graduates entering actuarial roles earn starting salaries around $77,000. Those who pass multiple certification exams can reach $120,000 to $200,000 annually, especially in the finance and insurance sectors. 

The field also has strong job stability and a projected 28% growth rate through 2033. Compared to other specializations, it offers a more structured path to high earnings, making it a smart choice for math students focused on long-term financial outcomes.

How do you choose an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

Start by looking at how well the program supports students through its most challenging parts. Math majors face steep hurdles in proof-based courses like Real Analysis or Abstract Algebra, especially online. It’s important to have access to tutoring, live office hours, or math-specific academic support. Without those, many students struggle.

Next, make sure the program offers the right specialization for your goals. Students exploring leadership or healthcare management pathways, such as those interested in the best online MSN in health systems management programs, may also benefit from math programs with strong analytics, statistics, or data modeling courses.

If you’re planning to become an actuary, look for courses in financial math and exam prep. If you’re interested in analytics or data science, the program should include regression, probability, and programming tools like Python or R.

The right program should match your pace, your learning style, and your career plan, not just offer flexibility on paper.

What career paths are available for graduates of online bachelor’s in mathematics programs?

What makes math degrees especially valuable is their versatility. Graduates are not limited to one narrow path. Whether they’re interested in risk analysis, data science, or complex problem-solving roles, students trained in mathematics can apply their skills across a wide range of sectors.

Here are some of the most common career paths for graduates of online bachelor’s in mathematics:

• Actuary — Uses probability and statistics to manage risk in insurance, pensions, or consulting; Their median pay is $125,770, with growth projected at 22% through 2033.
• Data Scientist — Extracts actionable insights from large datasets; These roles have a median annual salary is $112,590.
• Operations Research Analyst — Optimizes systems and logistics through mathematical modeling; Professionals in this role earn approximately $91,290 per year.
• Financial Analyst or Quantitative Analyst — Builds financial and trading models using math tools; Annual earnings typically average $101,910.
• Postsecondary Teacher or Research Assistant — Teaches university-level math or assists faculty; median pay is $83,980, often combined with research or teaching support.

Graduates of online bachelor’s in mathematics are well-positioned for careers in today’s data-driven economy. As industries across finance, healthcare, tech, and logistics rely more on modeling and analytics, demand for math talent has grown steadily. In fact, around 37,100 job openings are expected per year through 2033.

What challenges might you face in an online mathematics program?

Pursuing an online mathematics degree requires exceptional self-discipline, efficient time management, and strong digital literacy. Students may experience limited face-to-face collaboration and networking compared to on-campus experiences, potentially affecting group projects and peer engagement. Additionally, ensuring reliable access to up-to-date technological tools and academic support is critical for overcoming occasional remote learning challenges. For students considering an accelerated academic trajectory, some institutions offer pathways that support a swift transition to advanced studies, such as exploring the fastest doctorate in education. Recognizing these challenges early can help prospective students better prepare for the unique dynamics of an online learning environment.

What is the job market for graduates of an online bachelor’s in mathematics program?

The job market for mathematics graduates has evolved beyond academic and teaching roles. Today, employers across fintech, logistics, cybersecurity, and biotech actively recruit candidates with strong mathematical training. 

What makes the job market promising is the flexibility of entry points. While some roles require graduate credentials, many employers value a solid math foundation paired with domain-specific tools. Entry-level roles in fields like pricing analytics, database marketing, quality control, and forecasting regularly cite a bachelor’s in mathematics as a preferred credential.

The market also benefits from low saturation. According to IPEDS data, math degrees still account for less than 2% of all bachelor’s degrees awarded annually in the U.S. That scarcity can work in graduates’ favor, especially in industries struggling to find analytical talent that blends theory with software and systems literacy.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics Program

Other Things You Should Know About the Best Online Bachelor’s in Mathematics Program

What is the difference between BS math and BS applied mathematics?

A BS in Mathematics is built around theory. Students dive into courses like abstract algebra, real analysis, and number theory. These subjects focus on logic, structure, and proof. It’s a strong path for those considering research or graduate school later on. 

In contrast, a BS in Applied Mathematics is more practical. The coursework includes modeling, optimization, and data analysis. Students learn to use software like MATLAB, R, or Python in real-world scenarios. These programs often include industry projects or case studies in finance, logistics, or health. It’s a better fit for students who want to apply math right after graduation. 

Is BS math hard?

A BS in Mathematics is demanding, not because of the amount of material, but because of how the material works.  The difficulty often comes from the shift in thinking. It is less about getting the right number, more about explaining why something is true.

Many students are surprised when they hit courses like proof-based linear algebra or real analysis, where writing logical arguments replaces solving equations. For those used to procedural math, that transition can take time. Still, students who put in regular practice and don’t skip the “why” behind each concept tend to do better.

What is the best career in mathematics?

One of the best careers for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics is working as an actuary. Actuaries use advanced math, probability, and statistics to assess risk and advise financial strategies. These professionals often work in insurance, pension, or consulting roles.

The median annual salary for actuaries is around $125,770. Experienced professionals, especially those who pass multiple Society of Actuaries or Casualty Actuarial Society exams, can earn well above $150,000, sometimes exceeding $200,000 annually.

Is a bachelor's degree in mathematics worth it?

A bachelor’s degree in mathematics is considered a strong long-term investment, both in earnings and job stability. Math majors earn an average of $74,700 in their first year, with a projected lifetime earnings of around $9.25 million. This results in an estimated lifetime return on investment (ROI) of 1,133%, which is significantly higher than many other majors.  

Beyond salary, the job outlook is also favorable. The unemployment rate for math majors is just 5.8%, and only 30.7% are underemployed. This means that most graduates are working in roles that actually require their degree.