There are a lot of opportunities for math education graduates. With a master’s degree, you can become an actuary, professor, consultant, bank manager, financial director, or senior researcher. These professionals have steady jobs and earn a decent salary.
This article will present different master’s degree programs available to individuals who are looking to further their education and career. We will also discuss different career options along with their respective job outlooks and average salaries.
What Is Math Education?
Math education is the teaching of different mathematical concepts in a formal setting like school. The purpose of this education is to solve problems related to computation, algorithms. and formulas. A master’s degree will prepare you with the knowledge to teach math to others.
What Is a Math Education Master’s Degree?
A Master’s Degree in Math Education is a one or two-year graduate degree program. It provides a solid framework to strengthen the curriculum content used to teach mathematics to meet the need for research and instructional experts in math. This degree program blends mathematics fundamentals with primary teaching skills.
While each school has different coursework, there are common courses. Most students take classes like intro to probability, educational theory, modern geometry, abstract algebra, fundamentals of mathematics, history, and technology, principles of adolescent and child psychology, calculus survey, and math for elementary education.
Math Education Master’s Degree Requirements
All master’s degree programs always require proof that you have completed an accredited bachelor’s degree. Additionally, each school has a different and unique application process, but there are standard requirements that are the same for all programs. These include personal statements, letters of support, and transcripts.
Some schools require their incoming students to finish volunteer work in an educational institution that offers K-12 education. You might also be required to submit proof of professional mathematics teaching experience.
How Much Does a Math Education Master’s Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees is $19,792 at a post-secondary institution. Earning a master’s degree depends on such factors as state residency. Schools are known to charge more for out-of-state applicants.
Math Education Master’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Math Education Degree
There are different ways you can finance your master’s education. You can apply for private loans, scholarship grants, or pay in installments. Your options will vary depending on the school you choose to attend.
Best Math Education Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Chadron State College | Master of Arts in Education, Mathematics Concentration | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation |
| Columbus State University | Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Mathematics Education | National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education |
| Georgia State University | Master of Education in Mathematics Education | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Iowa State University | Master of Education in Mathematics, Education Emphasis | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lesley University | Master of Education in Mathematics Education | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Master of Education, Math Specialist Endorsement | National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education |
| Nova Southeastern University | Master of Science in Education, Mathematics Specialization | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation |
| Regent University | Master of Education in Leadership in Mathematics Education | Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs |
| Slippery Rock University | Master of Education in Secondary Math Education | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley | Master of Science in Mathematics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Math Education: Top Math Education Master’s Degree Programs
Here are the top schools offering math education master’s programs. These schools are listed with the course content and other pertinent information to give you an overview of their respective programs.
Master of Arts in Education, Mathematics Concentration | Chadron State College
Chadron State College’s master’s program is for individuals who want to expand their expertise in mathematics education to get into a doctorate program, advance their career, or develop professional skills. This degree is earned after completion of the 36-credit program.
Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Mathematics Education | Columbus State University
This school has one of the higher credit hour requirements among graduate schools. To complete the master’s degree you must enroll in 42 hours of credits. This mathematics education program focuses on foundations of education, field study teaching, professional practice, and advanced studies.
Master of Education in Mathematics Education | Georgia State University
This institution’s master’s degree program for mathematics education majors focuses on strengthening students’ understanding of mathematics through pedagogy, theories, and technology integration. This 36-credit program is for students with renewable T4 math certificates.
Master of Education in Mathematics, Education Emphasis | Iowa State University
This is a 30-credit program and the cost per credit is $543. The degree program aims to develop students’ skills to become effective educational researchers.
Master of Education in Mathematics Education | Lesley University
You need to earn 33 credits to graduate from this degree program. Students will explore applied and practical research, connect knowledge to actual classroom practice, and learn about curriculum development through this program.
Master of Education, Math Specialist Endorsement | Liberty University
This school requires students to earn 35 credits to graduate. The cost per credit hour is around $415. The institution’s Math Specialist Endorsement program focuses on new methods in teaching mathematics to promote positive learning experiences.
Master of Science in Education, Mathematics Specialization | Nova Southeastern University
The mathematics education program at Nova Southeastern University offers quality education. The program focuses on research-based mathematical formulas that will help students improve their problem-solving skills. The cost is around $1,025 per credit.
Master of Education in Leadership in Mathematics Education | Regent University
This 35-credit hour online master of education program from Regent University was designed for K-8 teachers who wish to improve their instructional skills and classroom handling strategies in mathematics. The cost of the school is $550 per credit hour.
Master of Education in Secondary Math Education | Slippery Rock University
Slippery Rock University offers on-campus and online education for its master’s degree programs. The school’s master of education teaching program focuses on research methods, educational measurement, and algebraic reasoning for students at secondary levels. Tuition is listed as $516 per credit.
Master of Science in Mathematics | The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley
This school offers on-campus master’s degree programs. Students are expected to complete 36 credits to graduate. In-state students should expect to pay $396 per credit. Students from out-of-state should pay about $818 per credit.
Best Online Math Education Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Ball State University | Master of Arts in Mathematics Education | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Mathematics Learning and Teaching | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| East Carolina University | Master of Education in Mathematics Education | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| James Madison University | Master of Education in Mathematics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Northern Arizona University | Master of Science in Mathematics Education | Higher Learning Commission |
| SUNY College at Brockport | Master of Science in Education: Adolescence Mathematics | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Buffalo | Master of Education in Math Education Studies | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Missouri | Master of Education in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum, Mathematics Education Emphasis | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Nebraska – Lincoln | Master of Arts for Teachers, Teaching of Middle Level Mathematics Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Governors University | Master of Arts in Mathematics Education | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
Best Colleges for Math Education: Top Online Math Education Master’s Degree Programs
Online education is an excellent alternative for those with busy schedules. By enrolling in a mathematics program online, you can also earn a professional certification and teaching certificate. Here are some of the best schools that offer online programs for a Master’s Degree in Math Education.
Master of Arts in Mathematics Education | Ball State University
Students are expected to complete 30 credits before receiving their master’s degree. Courses cover subjects like proportional reasoning and probability. This degree can help graduates become elementary teachers or general subject classroom teachers.
Master of Science in Mathematics Learning and Teaching | Drexel University
This school’s online master of science program offers courses on analytical strategies to help students teach mathematics better. Their courses include topics like multimedia instructional designs, curriculum functions, spatial reasoning, and geometry.
Master of Education in Mathematics Education | East Carolina University
East Carolina University’s online master of education program includes courses for working teachers who want to pursue higher education. If you take this course as a part-time student, you can expect to complete it within two years. The curriculum contains courses on measurements, data analysis, operations, number systems, and mathematical modeling.
Master of Education in Mathematics Education | James Madison University
Applicants to this program need to have at least 15 credits in linear algebra, calculus, and other mathematics subjects from their undergraduate degree before admission. Once admitted, they’re expected to focus on secondary math subjects like statistics and advanced calculus.
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Master of Science in Mathematics Education | Northern Arizona University
Students who wish to enroll in Northern Arizona University’s mathematics education master’s program should have at least 23 credits in mathematics sequences and two years of related professional experience. Students take courses on equity, assessment, philosophy, and the practice of mathematics education. The admission requirements include proof of mathematical skills.
Master of Science in Education: Adolescence Mathematics | SUNY College at Brockport
This program is for teaching professionals with an NYS teaching certificate for grades seven to 12. Courses cover topics such as diversity in education and advanced adolescence curriculum. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits to graduate. Students must also attend a course on the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA).
Master of Education in Math Education Studies | University of Buffalo
University of Buffalo’s math education program includes courses on learning and teaching STEM-related topics, measurement, and algebra. They also learn to develop curriculum for adolescents and STEM instruction evaluation.
Master of Education in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum, Mathematics Education Emphasis | University of Missouri
The coursework for this program includes math education assessment, advanced secondary mathematics, and matrix theory. Students are expected to examine curriculum changes challenging administrators and teachers. This program intends to improve the students’ math skills and teaching abilities.
Master of Arts for Teachers, Teaching of Middle Level Mathematics Specialization | University of Nebraska – Lincoln
This master’s program in Math Education is designed for those teaching grades seven to 12. The program covers topics in multicultural education curriculum development, technology tools, and natural science.
Master of Arts in Mathematics Education | Western Governors University
This degree program is for licensed teachers who wish to add to their expertise in mathematics education. Students gain research knowledge and advanced skills to teach trigonometry, geometry, geometric reasoning, statistical reasoning, calculus, and algebra.
What’s the Average Math Education Master’s Degree Salary?
Employment in math occupations is projected to grow 28 percent from 2020 to 2030 which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will add about 67,200 jobs to the industry.
Growth is anticipated as businesses and government agencies continue to emphasize the use of big data, which math occupations analyze. Math occupations had a median annual wage of $93,170 in May 2020, higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $41,950.
Top Math Education Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Math Education Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Mathematician | $93,290 |
| Statistician | $93,290 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $73,650 |
| Senior Data Analyst | $72,903 |
| High School Teacher | $62,870 |
| Middle School Teacher | $61,780 |
| Curriculum Specialist | $61,660 |
| Special Education Teacher | $61,500 |
| Elementary School Teacher | $60,940 |
| Executive Director | $54,663 |
Best Math Education Master’s Degree Jobs Explained
If you earn a Master’s Degree in Math Education, you can enjoy a more lucrative career while ensuring tenure with a better general job outlook. Check out the different career opportunities you can pursue when you earn a Master’s Degree in Math Education. Find the right career fit for you.
Mathematician
- Average Salary: $93,290
- Job Outlook: 33%
- Number of Jobs: 44,800
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, New Mexico
Mathematicians use formulas and theories to solve problems for businesses and organizations. They collect and interpret data and present their findings to executives in their industry.
Statistician
- Average Salary: $93,290
- Job Outlook: 33%
- Number of Jobs: 44,800
- Highest-Paying States: Idaho, New Jersey, Massachusetts
Statisticians work with data and formulas to solve government, academia, and industry problems. They analyze, interpret, and apply computational strategies to data sets to resolve problems.
Postsecondary Teacher
- Average Salary: $73,650
- Job Outlook: 12%
- Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Rhode Island
Math professors are not limited to teaching math courses. They could be asked to teach classes on statistics, research, and differential equations. They also help students with their coursework and train them to be research mathematicians.
Senior Data Analyst
- Average Salary: $72,903
- Job Outlook: 5%
- Number of Jobs: 52,500
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia
Senior data analysts develop well-constructed and clear analytical plans and analyze big data sets. These data sets include billing claims, insurance, administrative data, and those of a sensitive or urgent nature.
High School Teacher
- Average Salary: $62,870
- Job Outlook: 8%
- Number of Jobs: 998,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, Massachusetts
High school mathematics teachers develop lesson plans, deliver content, administer assessments, and provide feedback to parents and students. Since they work with students from different backgrounds, it’s part of their job to manage them, resolve conflicts, and handle criticism. Professional licensure is necessary to be allowed to teach at a high school level.
Middle School Teacher
- Average Salary: $61,780
- Job Outlook: 7%
- Number of Jobs: 598,500
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Massachusetts, California
Although middle school math teachers have the same leading role as other teachers in different year levels, they have additional tasks. They are also in charge of checking the status of students, developing strategies to improve performance, and evaluating students’ progress.
Curriculum Specialist
- Average Salary: $61,660
- Job Outlook: 10%
- Number of Jobs: 190,400
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Connecticut, Oregon
Curriculum specialists support teachers in creating and revising classroom materials. These professionals research and find suitable curricula and textbooks to improve the students’ learning outcomes.
Special Education Teacher
- Average Salary: $61,500
- Job Outlook: 8%
- Number of Jobs: 463,200
- Highest-Paying States: Oregon, New York, Connecticut
These teachers work with students with physical, emotional, mental, or learning disabilities. They use general education learning materials to teach students with moderate or mild disabilities. They also help students with severe disabilities learn basic skills. The delivery format of teaching materials varies depending on the needs of the learners.
Elementary School Teacher
- Average Salary: $60,940
- Job Outlook: 7%
- Number of Jobs: 1,492,400
- Highest-Paying States: California, Massachusetts, New York
Elementary school teachers teach all subjects to their students. They also ensure that their students are taught good values. They evaluate the effectiveness of their curriculum, develop strategies to improve their performance, and evaluate their progress.
Executive Director
- Average Salary: $54,663
- Job Outlook: 8%
- Number of Jobs: 2,704,400
- Highest-Paying States: South Dakota, New Jersey, District of Columbia
Otherwise known as executive managers or chief executive officers, executive directors create business plans and oversee day-to-day activities. They are also responsible for improving performance, developing organizational culture, supervising department heads, reporting revenue, and directing organizational strategies within a company.
Benefits of a Math Education Master’s Degree
- Structured learning. Master’s degree programs provide students with a structured learning program. Typically, master’s degree programs follow a set curriculum for long-term learning with strict schedules. Schools also provide mentorship opportunities for full-time students.
- More time to determine your career path. University education exposes you to academic programs that are more focused on learning theories first before the actual applications. As you navigate through these theories, you also have more time to think about how you want to specialize your education pathway.
- Get paid a higher salary. According to the Department of Education (DOE), math majors can expect to get paid more than other majors. This is especially true when comparing professionals with bachelor’s degrees versus master’s degrees.
- Can pursue higher education. A Master’s Degree in Math Education allows you to pursue a doctorate in the same field. If you aim to further your education and professional career, this is a good option for you.
- More opportunities to land an executive position. People who are good at math are expected to have better job opportunities. If you have a master’s degree, it’s easier to land executive-level posts.
Should You Get a Master’s Degree in Math Education?
Yes. If you wish to pursue senior positions in this industry, increase your knowledge, or potentially increase your salary, earning a master’s degree is an excellent choice. If you have a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics or any related field, you can easily enroll in a master’s degree program.
Math Education Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, you can enroll in a master’s program in math education without a math-related bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree in any discipline can be used as a prerequisite for applying to a graduate school.
No. It’s hard to get accepted to a top school and earn a math education master’s degree. To be admitted, you need to have graduated with a high GPA from a bachelor’s degree program. You might also be required to present proof of completion of six or more graduate courses and graduate program research.
Most students complete the 30 to 35 credit hour requirement in less than two years. However, it depends on your school and schedule choice.
Yes, they are because of their versatility and analytical skills. Based on the average salary and job outlooks indicated above, they’re in demand.
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