Best Mathematics Master’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
If you’re interested in getting a graduate mathematics education, enrolling in the best mathematics master’s degree program can set you on the right path. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for mathematicians is 33 percent between 2020 and 2030, meaning there is an expected exponential increase in mathematics occupations.
Mathematics master’s degree jobs are among the highest-paying occupations. In this article, we will explore the best Master’s Degrees in Mathematics and the steps students must take to earn a mathematics graduate degree from a public or private college or university in the US.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
You can get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics from Arizona State University, Drexel University, Iowa State University, Oregon State University, Syracuse University, and The University of Texas at San Antonio. The programs offered by these institutions provide students with analytical skills and expertise in advanced mathematical concepts.
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What Schools Offer the Best Mathematics Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Drexel University
- Oregon State University
- Syracuse University
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
The admission requirements for a mathematics master’s degree are a bachelor’s degree in a mathematics-related field with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Some universities may require a minimum number of credits in mathematics and statistics.
Most schools also require prospective students to submit official transcripts and GRE scores. Other admission requirements may include letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, and a personal essay.
Mathematics Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics or a related field
- Official transcripts
- GRE scores
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Essay
How to Get a Mathematics Master’s Degree
You get a mathematics master’s degree by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Most programs require students to complete 30 to 45 credits and maintain a 3.0 GPA.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
You need 30 to 45 credits for a Master’s Degree in Mathematics. Most programs require students to complete 12 to 18 credits in core courses, 18 credits in electives, and three credits in research. You’ll need to complete a thesis requirement for most programs, but some universities, such as University of Washington, offer a non-thesis option.
Mathematics Degree Requirements
- Core credits
- Elective credits
- Research credits
- Thesis
Best Mathematics Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Arts in Mathematics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Indiana State University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Iowa State University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northern Arizona University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oklahoma State University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oregon State University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Mathematics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Master of Science in Mathematics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| University of Washington | Master of Science in Mathematics | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Schools for Mathematics: Top Mathematics Master’s Degree Programs
The 10 best mathematics master’s degrees are from accredited US schools like Arizona State University, Drexel University, Oregon State University, and Syracuse University. Below, you will find out what makes each program worthwhile, what admissions requirements they enforce, and how to apply.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Founded in 1885, Arizona State University is a world-renowned institution that ranks highly in innovation. It has 87 academic programs with a total student enrollment of 54,866, as of the fall 2021 academic semester.
Master of Arts in Mathematics
To graduate from this program, students must complete 30 credits, including a written comprehensive exam and thesis, a portfolio, or two written comprehensive exams. The required core courses are three credits in either applied linear algebra, computational methods, abstract algebra, or real analysis. Students must also complete 21 to 27 credits in elective courses, and up to six credits in culminating experience.
A Master of Arts in Mathematics from Arizona State University prepares students to work in government, education, and economics sectors. You’ll be able to find work as a mathematician, statistician, finance and investment analyst, operations research analyst, or mathematics professor.
Master of Arts in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $1076/credit (in state); $1,547/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%
Master of Arts in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $70
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited US institution or equivalent, three letters of recommendation, resume, statement of education and career goals, official transcripts
Applying to Arizona State University
- Review the admission requirements
- Fill out and submit a graduate admission application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit other supplementary materials
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
Founded in 1891, Drexel University is a world-class research institution renowned for its experiential education. The institution offers various certificate, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through a blend of in-person and online learning, with a total student enrollment of 23,000 students.
Master of Science in Mathematics
The minimum graduation requirement for this MS program is 45 credits, including 18 credits in required courses. Required courses include Real Variables, Complex Variables, Abstract Algebra, Principles of Analysis, Linear Algebra, and Matrix Analysis. Graduates of this program are ideal candidates for positions in education, applied research, governmental organizations, computer science, and financial services.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $1,342/credit
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, essay, resume, three letters of recommendation
Applying to Drexel University
- Review the application deadline and requirements
- Fill out and submit your graduate admission application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit any additional materials
- Apply for financial aid
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN
Founded in 1865, Indiana State University is best known for its solid values. Indiana State University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a total student enrollment of close to 9,000.
Master of Science in Mathematics
To graduate with a Master of Science in Mathematics from Indiana State University, you must complete at least 33 credits, including 12 credits in core courses, 18 credits in electives, and three credits in research. Core courses include Linear Programming and Optimization, Graph Theory, Applied Linear Algebra, Cumulative Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Complex Variables, Real Variables, and Topology.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $432/credit (in state); $849/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 33 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 41%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.7
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $25
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
Applying to Indiana State University
- Fill out and submit your graduate admission application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit any additional materials
- Apply for financial aid
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
Established in 1858, Iowa State University is a top-ranked research institution offering one of the best mathematics master’s degree programs. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, with a total student enrollment of 30,708.
Master of Science in Mathematics
To graduate from this program, students must complete 30 credits, including 12 credits in core courses and one credit seminar requirement. Some of the core courses include Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra, Functions of a Single Complex Variable, and Real Analysis.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $11,404/year (in state); $26,948/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 75%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $60
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, statement of purpose, letter of recommendation
Applying to Iowa State University
- Review application deadline and requirements
- Fill out and submit your graduate admission application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit any additional materials
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
Northern Arizona University was established in 1899 and is best known for its management, business, and marketing programs. It offers over 370 graduate and undergraduate programs, with a total student enrollment of 28,718.
Master of Science in Mathematics
Students must complete 30 credits to graduate with an MS in Mathematics from Northern Arizona University. Some of the core courses include Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra, and Real Analysis. Students also gain critical communication and abstract reasoning skills. Graduates of this program work as mathematics teachers, bioinformatics technicians, clinical data managers, clinical research coordinators, and natural sciences managers.
MS in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $12,250/year (in state); $28,240/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 57%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, personal statement or essay, 27 hours in undergraduate mathematics and statistics with courses in abstract algebra, real analysis, linear algebra, and multivariable calculus
Applying to Northern Arizona University
- Review the application deadline and requirements
- Fill out and submit an online application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit all supporting materials
- Apply for financial aid
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK
Founded in 1890, Oklahoma State University is a world-class university renowned for its excellence in teaching and research. It offers over 300 undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, with a total enrollment of over 35,000 students from more than 100 countries.
Master of Science in Mathematics
Oklahoma State University’s Master of Science in Mathematics program prepares students for careers in teaching, research, and economics. The minimum graduation requirement for this program is 33 credits, including 18 credits in core courses, nine credits in electives, and six credits toward a thesis or report.
Students can choose their core courses from the applied, pure, or math education track. Some of the core courses include advanced calculus, abstract algebra, complex variables, numerical analysis, and ordinary and partial differential equations.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $233.80/credit (in state); $879.75/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 33 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 64%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, personal statement, resume, 18 hours of undergraduate mathematics beyond elementary integral calculus
Applying to Oklahoma State University
- Create an account
- Fill out and submit the online application
- Submit all supporting documents
- Pay the application fee
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
Oregon State University was established in 1856 and is the most funded public research university. It offers over 200 graduate and undergraduate programs, with a total enrollment of 34,108 students from 106 countries.
Master of Science in Mathematics
To graduate from this program, students must complete 45 credits, including 39 credits from non-blanket numbered courses. Core courses include Real Analysis, Linear Algebra, Complex Analysis, Probability, Topology and Geometry, Numerical Analysis, Applied Math, and Abstract Algebra.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition and Fees: $498/credit (in state); $1,046/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE (optional)
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, three letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency, statement of purpose
Applying to Oregon State University
- Review application deadline and requirements
- Fill out and submit an online application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit all supporting materials
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY
Founded in 1870, Syracuse University is a top-tier research institution offering one of the best mathematics master's degree programs. It has a student population of over 22,000 enrolled in nearly 600 academic programs.
Master of Science in Mathematics
The minimum graduation requirement for this program is 30 credits with a 2.8 GPA. Students must complete core courses in algebra, analysis, and applied mathematics. Students must also choose four electives. Elective options include Numerical Methods with Programming, Differential Geometry, Fundamental Concepts of Geometry, Number Theory, Probability, Mathematical Statistics, Introduction to Probability and Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Partial Differential Equations, and Complex Analysis.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition and Fees: $32,110/year
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not specified
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume
Applying to Syracuse University
- Review the application deadline and requirements
- Complete the CollegeNet graduate application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit any required material
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX
University of Texas at San Antonio was founded in 1969 and is a top-tier research institution. The school offers over 150 academic programs, with a total student enrollment of more than 34,000.
Master of Science in Mathematics
To graduate from this program, students must complete 36 credits, including nine credits in their areas of concentration. Students can choose a concentration in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics. Core courses for the Mathematics Concentration include Functional Analysis, Linear Algebra, and Introduction to Algebra. Core courses for the Applied Mathematics Concentration include Differential Equations, Numerical Linear Algebra, Partial Differential Equations, Harmonic Analysis, and Numerical Analysis.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Tuition and Fees: $908.76/credit (in state); $1905.86/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 46%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, two letters of recommendation
Applying to The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Review the application deadline and admission requirements
- Fill out and submit the application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit all supporting documents
University of Washington
Seattle, WA
Founded in 1861, University of Washington is a leading public university with one of the best mathematics master’s degree programs. The university enrolls over 54,000 students annually in its undergraduate and graduate programs.
Master of Science in Mathematics
Students are required to complete 36 to 45 credits to graduate with this Master of Science in Mathematics. Three options are available for this program, including a thesis, non-thesis, and optimization option. Students who choose the non-thesis option must complete 12 credits per quarter for three quarters.
For the non-thesis and optimization options, students must complete 15 credits per quarter for three quarters. Students who graduate with a master of science degree from University of Washington can pursue a PhD in a mathematics-related field or seek employment in teaching, research, government, or economics.
Master of Science in Mathematics Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition and Fees: $16,338/year (in state); $28,629/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 36-45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 82%
Master of Science in Mathematics Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: Undergraduate degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, letters of recommendation
Applying to University of Washington
- Review the application deadline and admission requirements
- Create a school profile
- Fill out and submit the application
- Pay the application fee
- Submit all supporting documents
What Is a Mathematics Master’s Degree?
A mathematics master’s degree is a graduate-level credential that’s earned through a two-year graduate program. It explores advanced numerical analysis and mathematical theory and their applications through a wide variety of practical projects. This program typically covers core courses in advanced calculus, abstract algebra, linear algebra, complex variables, discrete mathematics, numerical analysis, applied probability and statistics, partial differential equations, and ordinary differential equations.
All of these topics provide a firm understanding of the practical applications of advanced mathematics. A mathematics master’s degree equips graduates for specialization and leadership roles, including community college instructors, accountants, mathematicians, data analysts, statistical analysts, and geographic information systems analysts.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
A Master’s Degree in Mathematics is very important. You should get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics if you intend to pursue a doctoral program in a mathematics-related field or career opportunities in teaching, research, or finance. Most government and research jobs in mathematics-related fields require a graduate degree in mathematics.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Mathematics?
The types of master’s degrees you can get in mathematics are a master of science and a master of arts degree. Both programs are equal in length but differ in the curriculum. Of the two options, a master of science is the more popular degree option.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Mathematics?
It is better to get a Master of Science in Mathematics. While both master’s degrees in mathematics provide a stepping stone towards a PhD, a master of science equips graduate students with advanced mathematics skills and better employability after graduation.
A master of science program covers advanced calculus, numerical linear algebra, theoretical mathematics, computational mathematics, number theory, complex analysis, topology, and applied stochastics. Graduate students take on roles in government, economics, and teaching. They work as statisticians, financial analysts, market researchers, actuaries, operation research analysts, and secondary education teachers.
What Is the Difference Between a Mathematics Master’s Degree and a Mathematics Certificate?
The difference between a mathematics master’s degree and a mathematics certificate is the length of the program, number of credits required to graduate, cost, and level of education. Graduate certificates in mathematics cost less, take less time to complete, and are lower in educational level. Master’s Degree in Mathematics programs are more rigorous, require the completion of more credits, and offer better career prospects since they are the minimum requirement for most jobs in mathematics-related fields.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
On average, it costs $19,314 to get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics . However, the cost may range between $12,171 and $25,929, depending on whether you choose a private or public research institution and are an in-state or out-of-state resident.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Mathematics Master’s Degree?
It takes two academic years to get a mathematics master’s degree for full-time students. Prospective students must complete 30 to 45 credits in mathematical topics, including elective coursework. To graduate in two years, students have to take 15 credits per year.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
It is very hard to get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics. Graduate students enrolled in a mathematics program must be proficient in all aspects of the demanding field. However, the difficulty of this master’s degree program is relative and dependent on the student, school, and type of degree.
Why Should You Get a Mathematics Master’s Degree?
You should get a mathematics master’s degree if you are interested in pursuing a career in teaching, research, or economics. Pursuing this degree helps students develop analytical and problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for careers in financial analysis, investment analysis, operations research analysis, mathematics, and statistics.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Mathematics?
Some of the courses you need to take in a master’s degree program in mathematics include algebra, advanced calculus, complex variables, probability and statistics, and real analysis. Below is an explanation of each of the core courses.
Algebra
In this course, students will build on their knowledge of algebra by learning about advanced topics such as linear algebra and abstract algebra. You’ll learn more about lines, vector spaces, rings, modules, fields, algebra, and lattices.
Advanced Calculus and Real Analysis
This is one of the most rigorous courses in a mathematics master’s degree program. It covers advanced topics in calculus, such as ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, sequences and series, mathematical proofs, continuity, and limits of functions.
Complex Analysis
This class equips students with complex analysis skills that are essential in a wide range of mathematics careers. Some of the applications reviewed in this course include Fourier transforms, Laplace transforms, computing hard integrals, two-dimensional fluid flow, and harmonic functions.
Probability and Statistics
Probability and statistics are the cutting edge mathematics applications in economics. Graduate students learn how to use methods of applied mathematics to create, analyze, and interpret a wide range of models. You’ll also gain a solid foundation in researching, developing, and applying computational and quantitative techniques to risk management and investment.
Topology and Geometry
Topology is connected to many mathematics fields, including algebra, combinatorics, algebraic geometry, partial differential equations, differential geometry, and analysis. You’ll learn how to apply your knowledge of topology and geometry to a variety of areas from the geometry of DNA to the structure of large data sets.
Continuing Education Paths for Mathematics Master’s Degree Graduates
The most common continuing education path for mathematics master’s degree graduates is a doctoral degree. Mathematics master’s degree graduates can also pursue the finance and investment industry by earning a relevant certification.
Some of the most popular certifications for mathematics master’s degree holders include Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA), Certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA), Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA), Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA), and Member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA).
Related Mathematics Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Mathematics Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best mathematics master’s degree programs are accreditation, career services, cost, graduation rate, and concentration options. Each of these factors plays an important role in your education journey and should be carefully considered.
Accreditation
Choosing a Master’s Degree in Mathematics program from an accredited institution ensures your mathematics education meets the standardized quality and level that it should. Accreditation is important because graduating with an accredited degree allows you to pursue your PhD from an accredited university. In addition, employers prefer accredited degree holders because they know their education met regional or national standards.
Career Services
Before choosing a university, you might want to consider whether or not it offers career services. Many universities and colleges have a career services department where students can receive assistance with their resumes, interviews, job search, and other career-related needs. Career services departments are also often partnered with a variety of organizations, offering students access to relevant jobs during their degree program or after graduating.
Cost
The cost of a Master’s Degree in Mathematics degree varies across schools. Public schools are significantly cheaper than private schools. The cost may also vary based on the credits of coursework and whether you’re enrolled on a full-time basis or part-time basis.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate of a university is essential because it tells you how likely you are to graduate based on data from previous graduate students. Keep in mind that graduation rates aren’t an independent indication of your likelihood to graduate. There are many factors that affect graduation rates, particularly personal and financial hardships. So, while a high graduation rate is a good sign, it shouldn’t deter you from a school that you want to attend otherwise.
Concentration Options
Universities offer distinct tracks, curriculum choices, and elective choices. If you’re interested in a specialized area of mathematics, such as applied mathematics or financial mathematics, it’s essential to perform a school search for a math education program that meets your program details requirement.
What Is the Most Affordable Mathematics Master’s Degree?
The most affordable mathematics master’s degree program is Oklahoma State University’s Master of Science in Mathematics. It costs in-state students about $7,715 and out-of-state students about $29,031. The most affordable mathematics master’s degree program for out-of-state students is offered by Indiana State University at $28,017.
Salary and Job Outlook for Mathematics Master’s Degree Graduates
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to grow by 33 percent between 2020 and 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. With a mathematics master’s degree, you can become an actuary, operations research analyst, financial analyst, or investment analyst, all of which are high-paying and in-demand professions.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Mathematics Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a mathematics master’s degree. The best mathematics master’s degree programs offer career services to ensure student success. Career services include internships, job interview preparation, resume and cover letter writing assistance, and career counseling.
What’s the Average Mathematics Master’s Degree Salary?
The average mathematics master’s degree salary is $85,000 . On average, people in this line of work with this degree can earn between $55,000 to $151,000. Companies that pay mathematics graduates the highest average salaries include Microsoft, Merkle, Bank of America, LendingTree, Raytheon, Reinsurance Group of America, Ally Financial, and Zillow.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Mathematics Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a mathematics master’s degree are in finance, healthcare, government, education, and research. Mathematics master’s degree graduates can work as actuaries, financial and investment analysts, mathematicians, operation research analysts, and statisticians.
Mathematics Degree Jobs
- Actuary
- Financial and Investment Analyst
- Mathematician
- Operations Research Analyst
- Statistician
Potential Careers With a Mathematics Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Mathematics?
You can make between $81,410 and $111,030 per year with a Master’s Degree in Mathematics. The highest paying mathematics master’s degree jobs include actuary, mathematician, statistician, operations research analyst, and financial analyst jobs.
Highest-Paying Mathematics Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Mathematics Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Actuary | $111,030 |
| Mathematician | $108,100 |
| Statistician | $95,570 |
| Operations Research Analyst | $82,360 |
| Financial Analyst | $81,410 |
Best Jobs for Mathematics Master’s Degree Grads
The best mathematics master’s degree jobs are statistical, research, and analytics positions that earn between $81,410 to $111,030 per year. The section below outlines some of the best mathematics master’s degree jobs, salaries, and job growth statistics.
Actuary
Average Salary: $111,030
Actuaries collect and evaluate statistical data to determine financial costs and risks. They rely on mathematical, financial, and statistical techniques to analyze past trends and make financial predictions based on the conclusions.
- Average Salary: $111,030
- Job Outlook: 24% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 27,700
- Highest-Paying States: Georgia, New Hampshire, New York, Connecticut, Vermont
Mathematician
Average Salary: $108,100
Mathematicians develop mathematical theories and algorithms and use them to solve everyday problems. Their skills are most useful in healthcare, government, education, and research.
- Average Salary: $108,100
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 44,800
- Highest-Paying States: Washingotn DC, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland
Statistician
Average Salary: $95,570
Statisticians collect, organize, and analyze data and present their findings in an easy-to-understand format. They also design data collection surveys, experiments, and questionnaires to help mathematicians collect the data they need.
- Average Salary: $95,570
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 44,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Wyoming, California
Operations Research Analyst
Average Salary: $82,360
Operations research analysts collect, organize, and analyze data to help organizations solve problems and make better decisions. They use techniques, such as data mining and forecasting to weigh the costs and benefits of alternative solutions and make recommendations to top-level management.
- Average Salary: $82,360
- Job Outlook: 25% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 104,100
- Highest-Paying States: Virginia, Alabama, Maryland, Hawaii, New York
Financial Analyst
Average Salary: $81,410
Financial analysts evaluate historical and current financial data and make recommendations to clients and businesses. They analyze the performance of bonds, stocks, and other types of investments.
- Average Salary: $81,410
- Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 492,100
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Alaska, Connecticut, Washington DC, Wyoming
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is a Master’s Degree in Mathematics Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Mathematics is worth it. Getting a mathematics master’s degree prepares you for some of the most in-demand careers such as actuary, mathematician, statistician, operations research analyst, and financial analyst positions.
From a return on investment (ROI) perspective, it makes sense to get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics. It costs $19,314 on average to get a Master’s Degree in Mathematics, while the average salary for someone with a mathematics master’s is $85,000.
Additional Reading About Mathematics
Mathematics Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, a Master of Science in Mathematics is a good degree. It offers you the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in high-paying relevant positions. The skills learned in a mathematics master’s degree program are also easily transferable to other fields.
It is better to get a mathematics master’s degree because it is cheaper, takes less time to complete, and is easier to attain. While a mathematics doctoral degree will qualify you for higher pay and certain advanced positions, the majority of mathematics jobs only require a master’s degree.
Yes, it is hard to get a mathematics PhD. A mathematics PhD is rigorous and demanding compared to other degrees.
Yes, there are mathematics master’s degrees available online. Some of the universities offering an online Master’s Degree in Mathematics program include PennState World Campus, Southern New Hampshire University, Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Texas A&M University, and James Madison University.
