Careers in math are not limited to teaching careers.
A degree in math can lead to a high-paying career. Julianne Pepitone of CNN Money noted that, as of 2009, the top 10 paying careers all require a strong background in mathematics. Contrary to popular misconceptions, a math degree does not necessarily lead to a teaching career. Instead, careers in engineering, computer science and actuarial science are all possible. Distance education degrees in math allow you to gain this education.
General Math Degrees
Some schools offer online general math degrees that provide students with a wide range of studies in the various mathematical subjects. Degrees are offered at both the bachelor's and master's degree levels. These types of degrees can prepare students for a wide array of career options in areas related to mathematics. For instance, the degree offered by Ottawa University includes studies in calculus, college algebra, linear algebra and differential equations.
Math Education Degrees
A second option for online degree-seeking students is to pursue a mathematics degree that leads to licensure as a teacher. For instance, Western Governors University offers an online bachelor of arts in mathematics that integrates teacher education into the degree curriculum. This allows a student to obtain certification to teach in the state of Utah and other states that have reciprocity agreements with the state that recognize the teaching credentials of Utah teachers without having to pursue additional licensing requirements. Students can seek certification to teach either grades five through nine or five through 12.
Applied Mathematics Degree
Some schools offer online master's degrees in applied mathematics, like the one offered by the University of Washington. Master's degree programs of this type generally require 30 to 40 credit hours in a variety of areas within the mathematics field. The required courses tend to be more specific, in terms of their subject matter, compared to more general math degree requirements. Courses include: Vector Calculus and Complex Variables, Applied Linear Algebra & Introductory Numerical Methods, Numerical Analysis of Boundary Value Problems and Introduction to Dynamical Systems and Chaos, among others.
Master of Science Degrees
A master of science degree in the mathematics field can allow a student to focus on a more specific area of math and also allow students to conduct research at the graduate level. Texas A&M University offers an online master of science in mathematics that covers a wide range of mathematics courses, such as Mathematical Communications and Technology, Differential Equations, History of Mathematics, Fourier Series and Wavelets and Computational Linear Algebra.
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