Affordable Accredited Online Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics

Finding a fully accredited online bachelor's degree in mathematics that is free or nearly free is a challenging endeavor. However, several institutions offer affordable programs that provide legitimate college credits and degrees recognized by employers and graduate schools. This comprehensive guide explores the most affordable accredited options, alternative pathways, and strategies to minimize costs while earning a mathematics degree online.

1. University of the People

The University of the People is a pioneering institution offering tuition-free education. While not entirely free, it significantly reduces costs through minimal fees.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Expected Launch in 2025)
Cost: Tuition-free with small administrative fees:
- Application Fee: $60
- Assessment Fee: $120 per course (total approximately $4,860 for the degree)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Course Structure: Fully online, asynchronous courses focusing on applied mathematics, statistics, and problem-solving.
Financial Assistance: Scholarships available to cover assessment fees for students in financial need.
Recognition: Degrees are recognized by employers and graduate schools globally, with partnerships including NYU and UC Berkeley.

2. Western Governors University (WGU)

Western Governors University offers a cost-effective and flexible online Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program.

Tuition and Costs: Approximately $3,950 per six-month term, operating on a competency-based model allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Course Structure: Courses include calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and applied mathematics, with access to online resources like video lectures and interactive simulations.
Financial Assistance: Various scholarships available, including the WGU Excellence Scholarship covering up to $2,500 per term. Additionally, federal financial aid and employer tuition reimbursement programs are accessible.
Recognition: Degrees are widely recognized by employers and graduate schools across the U.S.

3. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Southern New Hampshire University offers an affordable and flexible Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics program online.

Tuition and Costs: Approximately $320 per credit hour, totaling around $38,400 for the 120-credit program. Military-affiliated students benefit from reduced rates.
Accreditation: Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Course Structure: Fully online with 8-week terms, covering calculus, differential equations, statistics, and mathematical modeling.
Financial Assistance: Offers scholarships such as the SNHU Forward Scholarship covering up to $10,000 per year, alongside federal financial aid options.
Recognition: Highly regarded within the U.S., with degrees recognized by employers and graduate institutions.

4. Open University (United Kingdom)

The Open University in the UK provides a cost-effective Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Mathematics program suitable for international students.

Tuition and Costs: Approximately £6,336 per year for part-time study (around $8,000 USD annually), varying based on location and study intensity.
Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) in the UK.
Course Structure: Modular and flexible, allowing part-time or full-time study with courses in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics.
Financial Assistance: Scholarships, loans, and grants available, including options for international students.
Recognition: Degrees are highly regarded both in the UK and internationally, qualifying graduates for postgraduate studies and employment.

5. American Public University (APU)

American Public University offers an accessible Bachelor of Science in Mathematics program tailored for online learners.

Tuition and Costs: $285 per credit ($250 for military-affiliated students), with a total cost of approximately $34,200 for 120 credits.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Course Structure: Fully online, emphasizing mathematical theory, problem-solving, and STEM applications.
Financial Assistance: Eligible for federal financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
Recognition: Degrees are widely accepted by employers and graduate schools across the U.S.

6. Credit-by-Exam and Free Course Pathways

For those seeking to minimize costs further, combining free online courses with credit-by-exam programs can be an effective strategy.

Free Course Providers:
- MIT OpenCourseWare - Offers free access to a variety of mathematics courses including calculus and linear algebra.
- Khan Academy - Provides comprehensive tutorials and exercises in mathematics.
- edX - Hosts free audit versions of courses from universities like MIT and Harvard, with optional certificates for a fee.
Credit-by-Exam Programs:
- CLEP (College-Level Examination Program): Exams available for approximately $93 each to earn college credits.
- DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests): Exam fees around $100 each.
- StraighterLine: Offers online courses at $59 per month plus $39 per course, facilitating credit transfer.
Degree Pathways: Enroll in affordable online colleges such as Thomas Edison State University or University of Maryland Global Campus, which accept extensive transfer credits including those from credit-by-exam.

7. Financial Assistance and Scholarships

Reducing the cost of an online mathematics degree is achievable through various financial aid options and scholarships offered by institutions.

Federal Financial Aid: Most accredited institutions participate in federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and student loans.
Institutional Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships. For example:
- WGU Excellence Scholarship: Covers up to $2,500 per term.
- SNHU Forward Scholarship: Provides up to $10,000 per year.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition assistance programs for employees pursuing higher education.
Particular Scholarships for Specific Groups: Scholarships tailored for military personnel, veterans, and other specific groups can further reduce costs.

8. Key Considerations for Choosing an Affordable Program

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) or the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Accreditation is crucial for:
- Eligibility for federal financial aid
- Credit transferability
- Graduate school admissions
- Employer recognition
Flexibility: Look for programs that offer asynchronous learning, allowing you to balance studies with work or personal commitments.
Course Structure and Pace: Consider competency-based models or accelerated programs that let you complete courses at your own speed, potentially reducing the time and cost to graduate.
Financial Aid Opportunities: Explore all available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and employer-sponsored programs to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Transfer Credits: Maximize the use of transfer credits from previous coursework or credit-by-exam programs to shorten the duration and cost of your degree.
Career Alignment: Choose a program that aligns with your career goals, whether in academia, industry, research, or education.

9. Additional Resources and Support

Utilizing additional resources can enhance your learning experience and support your academic journey.

Online Tutoring and Support Services: Many online programs offer access to tutoring, academic advising, and technical support to help you succeed.
Peer Communities and Discussion Forums: Engaging with fellow students through online communities can provide motivation and collaborative learning opportunities.
Library and Research Resources: Online libraries and research databases are essential for completing assignments and conducting independent research.

10. Conclusion

While there are no fully free accredited online bachelor's degree programs in mathematics, several affordable and flexible options can help you achieve your academic and career goals. Institutions like the University of the People, Western Governors University, and Southern New Hampshire University offer reputable programs at relatively low costs. Additionally, leveraging credit-by-exam opportunities, free online course materials, and extensive financial aid options can significantly reduce the financial burden. When selecting a program, prioritize accreditation, flexibility, financial aid availability, and alignment with your career aspirations to ensure that your investment leads to a legitimate and recognized degree in mathematics.