Rankings, Salaries & Courses
Earning an online math education degree can launch a fulfilling, and well-paying career as a math teacher, instructional coordinator, or mathematician. Math education students learn the philosophies and theories of education, best practices for the classroom, the fundamentals of pure math, and age-appropriate strategies for teaching math. According to the U.S. Department of Education, math education is a high-need area in many states, meaning math teachers often have more opportunities than other educators.
Students pursuing a bachelor’s in math education online can take courses while working and caring for a family. These learners complete practicums, classroom observations, and student-teaching assignments at approved locations near their homes. Since many school districts face a shortage of math teachers, generous financial aid packages can help pay most, or all, of the cost a bachelor’s in math education.
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How Much Can You Make in a Math Education Career?
Many math education graduates teach at the elementary, middle school, and high school level. Some graduates begin their careers as classroom teachers before becoming administrators or teacher educators. Others become mathematicians. As the table below illustrates, annual median salaries in the field range from $57,000-$100,000. Most careers in education or mathematical science are growing, so math education majors can enter a field with above-average salaries and consistent Job Growth 2016-2026. Of course, no degree guarantees a specific career or salary, but the table below includes a few typical math education careers and the corresponding median salaries.
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Mathematical Science Teachers, PostsecondaryMEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY: $84,710
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:9.4%
Job Description
Postsecondary math teachers work in community colleges, universities, and liberal arts colleges. They plan and deliver lectures, grade evaluations, and counsel students. They may also sponsor their institution’s mathematics club. Many college professors conduct research in math, education, or mathematics education and present their findings in publications and at conferences.
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Secondary School TeachersMEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY: $59,170
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:7.5%
Job Description
High school teachers prepare lessons, conduct classroom activities, manage student behavior, and evaluate academic performance. They often sponsor after-school clubs, provide one-on-one counseling and tutoring, and sit on school committees. Math teachers may help lead extracurricular activities such as a robotics program or a competitive business team. Classroom teachers spend most of their day instructing students and complete preparatory work after the school day ends.
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Middle School TeachersMEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY: $57,720
JOB GROWTH 2016-2026:7.5%
Job Description
Middle school teachers instruct students in grades five through nine. These teachers prepare lessons, deliver lectures, oversee classroom projects, manage student behavior, and evaluate learner performance. They may meet one on one with students throughout the day, sponsor math-related clubs, and watch hallways and detention rooms. Middle school teachers often prepare lessons and grade assignments during the evenings.
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Projections Central
The list belows shows the salaries and Job Growth 2016-2026 data for postsecondary mathematical science teachers in the United States. Salaries vary significantly depending on factors including location. College math teachers typically earn higher salaries in New England, the central midwest, and Alaska. However, most Job Growth 2016-2026 in the field are concentrated in the West, New England, and the mid-Atlantic. In addition to geographic location, a professional’s credentials and performance impact salary.
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Alabama
Median Annual Salary: $69,810
Number Currently Employed: 700
Projected Job Growth: +7.4 percent
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Alaska
Median Annual Salary: $87,630
Number Currently Employed: 150
Projected Job Growth: +1.3 percent
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Arizona
Median Annual Salary: $83,910
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Arkansas
Median Annual Salary: $55,920
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: +12.6 percent
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California
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Colorado
Median Annual Salary: $66,090
Number Currently Employed: 1,060
Projected Job Growth: +32.3 percent
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District of Columbia (DC)
Median Annual Salary: $116,280
Number Currently Employed: 200
Projected Job Growth: +10.1 percent
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Connecticut
Median Annual Salary: $86,080
Number Currently Employed: 770
Projected Job Growth: +4.3 percent
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Delaware
Median Annual Salary: $78,840
Number Currently Employed: 190
Projected Job Growth: +7.6 percent
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Florida
Median Annual Salary: $73,010
Number Currently Employed: 2,540
Projected Job Growth: +14.6 percent
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Georgia
Median Annual Salary: $78,190
Number Currently Employed: 1,120
Projected Job Growth: +16.8 percent
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Hawaii
Median Annual Salary: $68,220
Number Currently Employed: 220
Projected Job Growth: +7.4 percent
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Idaho
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 260
Projected Job Growth: +12.5 percent
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Illinois
Median Annual Salary: $78,880
Number Currently Employed: 1,950
Projected Job Growth: +2.1 percent
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Indiana
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 920
Projected Job Growth: +8.2 percent
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Iowa
Median Annual Salary: $93,470
Number Currently Employed: 660
Projected Job Growth: +9.2 percent
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Kansas
Median Annual Salary: $59,120
Number Currently Employed: 270
Projected Job Growth: +7.2 percent
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Kentucky
Median Annual Salary: $63,520
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Lousiana
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 500
Projected Job Growth: +9 percent
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Maine
Median Annual Salary: $67,010
Number Currently Employed: 280
Projected Job Growth: -1.1 percent
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Maryland
Median Annual Salary: $87,300
Number Currently Employed: 450
Projected Job Growth: +7.5 percent
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Massachusuetts
Median Annual Salary: $90,530
Number Currently Employed: 1,690
Projected Job Growth: +13.1 percent
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Michigan
Median Annual Salary: $80,890
Number Currently Employed: 1,610
Projected Job Growth: +9.3 percent
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Minnesota
Median Annual Salary: $71,370
Number Currently Employed: 670
Projected Job Growth: +3.6 percent
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Mississippi
Median Annual Salary: $71,040
Number Currently Employed: 280
Projected Job Growth: +10 percent
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Missouri
Median Annual Salary: $88,500
Number Currently Employed: 710
Projected Job Growth: +17.2 percent
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Montana
Median Annual Salary: $57,040
Number Currently Employed: 170
Projected Job Growth: +3 percent
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Nebraska
Median Annual Salary: $74,980
Number Currently Employed: 270
Projected Job Growth: +6 percent
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Nevada
Median Annual Salary: $66,780
Number Currently Employed: 170
Projected Job Growth: +15.3 percent
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New Hampsire
Median Annual Salary: $102,280
Number Currently Employed: 180
Projected Job Growth: +5 percent
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New Jersey
Median Annual Salary: $97,530
Number Currently Employed: 1,990
Projected Job Growth: +8.3 percent
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New Mexico
Median Annual Salary: $62,720
Number Currently Employed: 210
Projected Job Growth: +6.8 percent
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New York
Median Annual Salary: $102,040
Number Currently Employed: 7,670
Projected Job Growth: +17.3 percent
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North Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $75,680
Number Currently Employed: 1,950
Projected Job Growth: +9.4 percent
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North Dakota
Median Annual Salary: $72,930
Number Currently Employed: 130
Projected Job Growth: +3.8 percent
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Ohio
Median Annual Salary: $93,250
Number Currently Employed: 1,860
Projected Job Growth: +5.7 percent
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Oklahoma
Median Annual Salary: $58,410
Number Currently Employed: 820
Projected Job Growth: +4.8 percent
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Oregon
Median Annual Salary: $75,930
Number Currently Employed: 510
Projected Job Growth: +11.5 percent
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Pennsylvania
Median Annual Salary: $83,100
Number Currently Employed: 2,940
Projected Job Growth: +7.7 percent
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Rhode Island
Median Annual Salary: $112,630
Number Currently Employed: 230
Projected Job Growth: +4.3 percent
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South Carolina
Median Annual Salary: $85,900
Number Currently Employed: 790
Projected Job Growth: +10.9 percent
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South Dakota
Median Annual Salary: $64,230
Number Currently Employed: 160
Projected Job Growth: +12.5 percent
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Tennessee
Median Annual Salary: $60,720
Number Currently Employed: 1,160
Projected Job Growth: +13.2 percent
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Texas
Median Annual Salary: $78,390
Number Currently Employed: N/A
Projected Job Growth: N/A
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Utah
Median Annual Salary: $77,790
Number Currently Employed: 550
Projected Job Growth: +35.2 percent
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Vermont
Median Annual Salary: N/A
Number Currently Employed: 200
Projected Job Growth: -2 percent
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Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $67,300
Number Currently Employed: 1,800
Projected Job Growth: +13.5 percent
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Washington
Median Annual Salary: $74,200
Number Currently Employed: 890
Projected Job Growth: +18.4 percent
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West Virginia
Median Annual Salary: $55,620
Number Currently Employed: 280
Projected Job Growth: +9.4 percent
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Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary: $82,390
Number Currently Employed: 1,110
Projected Job Growth: +4.7 percent
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Wyoming
Median Annual Salary: $61,480
Number Currently Employed: 180
Projected Job Growth: +2.8 percent
What Courses Can Be Taken for an Online Math Education Degree?
An online math education degree requires coursework in general education subjects, pure mathematics, educational theory and practice, and elective subjects. Some education courses cover general pedagogical topics, while others focus on topics for math educators. In addition to classroom work, math education students often complete practicums, observations, and student-teaching experiences. Although each school’s curriculum is different, the courses below are common in many math education programs.
Mathematics for Teachers
Students in this course gain fundamental math concepts and skills. The course reintroduces prospective teachers to arithmetic, numeration, and problem solving. This course is often the earliest math education course in the curriculum.
Technology in the Educational Setting
Students access the latest educational software and hardware. Learners consider how to use technology in light of various educational philosophies and learning theories.
Multicultural Education
Students in this upper-level education course explore how culture influences learning. Students consider diversity of language, race, culture, ethnicity, economics, and intellectual backgrounds.
College Algebra
In this introductory course, students learn about polynomials, inequalities, and linear and quadratic equations. They also study logarithmic and exponential functions. This course serves as the foundation for other pure math courses.
Statistics
This course introduces collegiate-level statistics and covers topics such as the normal curve, displaying and describing data, regression, statistical inference, and probability. Students learn to test hypotheses with practical applications.
How to Choose the Best Online Math Education Program
Students choosing a school at which to pursue a bachelor’s degree in math education should consider factors including cost, reputation, accreditation, program requirements, faculty, and logistics. Students should also select a regionally accredited institution to ensure employers will recognize their degree. Travel considerations and other practical limitations are also important. Ultimately, prospective students should choose the program that best aligns with their practical needs and academic goals.
What Can I Do With a Math Education Major Besides Teach in a K-12 School?
An online math education degree can prepare students for classroom teaching and for other education-related careers, such as instructional coaching, curriculum development, and tutoring. Some students teach for a few years before becoming accountants or actuaries, while others pursue graduate education and teach at the college level. Others work in specialized private schools, such as Montessori, Waldorf, or classical schools.
Will I Need to Do Student Teaching If I’m Earning a Bachelor’s in Math Education Online?
Any student pursuing teacher licensure through a traditional route must complete student teaching. Learners pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in math education often complete student teaching at an approved school near their home. This approach requires diligence from both the student and the lead teacher.
How Can I Do Math Classroom Observations If I’m Studying Online?
Some education courses require students to observe a math classroom, and some schools require learners to observe several classrooms. Most online programs allow students to conduct observations at local schools. Online learners contact schools and set up the appointments with approval from their professor.
What Are the Best Courses to Choose for My Electives?
Like most other undergraduate programs, an online math education degree includes free electives. Some students take easy courses to boost their GPA. Others enroll in subjects that interest them. Taking electives in hard sciences or social sciences that overlap with math, such as physics or economics, can be a good choice for math education majors.
What Background Should I Look for in Faculty Who Are Teaching in a Math Education Bachelor’s Degree Online?
Three factors establish the background of a good math education professor: classroom experience, formal education, and depth of research. The best professors have spent time teaching math classrooms; hold a terminal degree such as an Ed.D. or a Ph.D.; and have published several articles or books on pure mathematics, math education, or teaching.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Math Education Programs
Higher education can be costly, but there are many ways for students to pay for an online bachelor’s degree in math education. While student loans are common, borrowers have to repay those loans with interest on a first-year teacher’s salary. Grants and scholarships are more valuable, since students do not have to pay them back. Some financial aid packages cover most or all of a student’s expenses.
AFCEA is an information-exchange agency that funds a $2,500-$5,000 scholarship for individuals pursuing a graduate degree or a teaching license in a STEM-related field. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field; must have a minimum 3.5 GPA; and must submit a transcript, a resume, and letters of reference.
Funded by the Texas Instruments Demana-Waits Fund and managed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, this scholarship provides up to $10,000 for aspiring math teachers who have two to three years of coursework remaining. Students may apply the funds toward tuition, course materials, fees, or other expenses. The extensive application packet requires supporting documentation; applicants should begin completing the packet well in advance of the June 3 deadline.
This federal grant supports students who plan to teach in high-need fields and low-income areas. The grant awards up to $4,000 per year. Recipients must teach in a high-need subject, such as math education, in an approved area for four years of the first eight years after graduation. Recipients who do not complete this requirement must refund a portion of their TEACH grant through a direct, unsubsidized loan.
The National Institute for Labor Relations Research sponsors this $1,000 scholarship, which recognizes three Michigan teachers. Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate education majors at any accredited U.S. institution. Applicants must demonstrate scholarship and an interest in teacher union issues. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay and a transcript demonstrating academic potential.
The National Federation of the Blind offers scholarships to blind students throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The organization provides $120,000 in scholarship funds through 30 merit-based scholarships, each worth $3,000-$12,000. Applicants must demonstrate academic prowess, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. Applicants can be studying many fields, including math education.