Earning a math PhD can be beneficial for many different professional paths. A doctorate in mathematics will encourage you to explore the boundaries of math, and you’ll conduct research in addition to coursework.
Additionally, some programs ask students to complete a thesis or dissertation to earn the title of Doctor of Mathematics.
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Read on to learn more about what a doctorate degree in mathematics entails and determine if it’s the right path for you.
Online Math PhD Programs
Earning a PhD in Mathematics can be an exciting step for many students. This advanced degree is typically sought out by those who wish to dive deeper into mathematical processes, theory, and research.
Students who earn the title of Doctor of Mathematics are often prepared for a variety of advanced roles in education, STEM fields, and data science and management. In addition to completing core classes, you’ll typically have the opportunity to take courses and complete research that help you complete your dissertation.
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A dissertation is often linked to potential career and professional opportunities and studies. Many math PhD programs provide a variety of specialty areas to help students hone in on their area of expertise. Those who graduate with a doctorate degree in mathematics pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on their area of expertise and research.
Graduates’ advanced skills in understanding numeric principles and mathematical reasoning are applicable to a variety of roles, such as:
- Actuarial analyst or financial strategist for businesses
- Academic leader or postsecondary professor
- Government agency consultant or advisor
- Researcher in STEM fields
A highly developed understanding of mathematics, research, theory, and their applications can be beneficial in a variety of professional settings. Pursuing a math PhD can help you fine-tune your skills and grow your professional qualifications in this lucrative field.
Math Careers & Salaries
Individuals who have earned a PhD in Math often select careers that exercise their skills in reviewing numbers, outcomes, and analyzing information. Many math professionals with a PhD combine their interests with fields such as physics, engineering, or finance.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries for various careers related to advanced studies in mathematics.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Chief Executives | $189,520 |
| Financial Managers | $139,790 |
| Actuaries | $113,990 |
| Economists | $113,940 |
| Mathematicians | $112,110 |
| Data Scientists | $103,500 |
| Statisticians | $98,920 |
| Financial Analysts | $95,080 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $85,720 |
| Postsecondary Mathematical Science Teachers | $77,420 |
Some mathematics professionals work as analysts, actuaries, or economists, working with businesses or government entities to review figures and review outcome probability. Others pursue work as professors, researchers, or leaders within postsecondary education.
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Mathematicians and statisticians are often employed in a variety of fields where an in-depth knowledge of these topics can be important. These fields can include energy production and mining, aerospace and transportation, finance, or pharmaceutical production.
Mathematics Doctorate Curriculum & Courses
While each school offering a doctorate degree in mathematics will have its own unique curriculum, students will typically encounter courses that encourage their growth.
Some courses that you may encounter while studying for your math PhD include:
- Linear Algebra: This course involves the process of plotting mathematical problems via vectors and matrices.
- Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations: In this course, you’ll solve for unknown variables and their derivatives.
- Probability: At the doctorate level, you’ll take this study of likelihood and chance to a more in-depth, theoretical stage.
- Geometry and Topology: This course compares the local and global implications of continuous and discrete moduli, and it explores topics such as Riemannian geometry and homotopy theory.
- Harmonic Analysis: Using the Fourier transform and Fourier series, you’ll explore functions and frequency.
- Estimation Statistics: Students will combine a variety of factors to create and conduct experiments that allow them to analyze incomplete data.
- Graph Theory: This course provides the opportunity to study graphs and the relationship of multiple pieces of data to each other.
- Mathematical Analysis: In this course, you’ll use both real and complex numbers to explore scenarios involving continuous and analytic functions, limits, infinite sequences, and other mathematical objects.
- Algebraic Combinatorics: Students will explore enumeration, permutation, partitions, sets, and cycles to investigate the world of abstract algebra.
- Operator Theory: This course involves a deep dive into linear operators on function spaces, including the study and analysis of various operators.
Your interests, dissertation, and overall goals will typically influence which courses you choose. It can be beneficial to review each program’s curriculum before you decide on a school.
Admissions Requirements
Each college or university will have its own set of admissions requirements for students applying for their PhD in Mathematics. It’s beneficial to review the application process in full before starting.
Some of the items required by many mathematics doctorate programs include:
- GRE or GMAT Scores (only some schools require them)
- Transcripts of previous education
- Master’s degree in a related field
- CV or resume
- Statement of intent
In addition, you will likely be asked to provide academic writing samples as well as letters of recommendation. You may be asked to complete an interview with department staff, too.
Accreditation
When researching schools that offer a PhD in Math online, you may wish to give special attention to schools that hold regional accreditation.
Accredited schools have been carefully evaluated for their academic precedence. As a result, employers often prefer or require candidates to have received their doctorate in mathematics from an accredited institution. Credible regional accrediting organizations are recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. You can visit CHEA’s website to verify a school’s accreditation status.
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Additionally, benefits such as financial aid, certification, and membership to professional organizations may be tied to earning your doctoral degree from an accredited institution.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you are interested in needs-based financial aid, you could fill out and submit the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This determines your eligibility for federal financial aid. Most state aid programs want to see your FAFSA results as well.
You could also inquire about scholarship opportunities through the school you choose to attend. Many programs offer financial assistance for students based on prior academic performance, chosen specialty, or demographic factors. Your employer may also offer an educational assistance program, such as tuition reimbursement, for workers who are furthering their education.
In addition, some independent parties, corporations, and communities offer scholarship or grant opportunities for doctoral students. The requirements for these scholarships vary and are often as unique as the gifts themselves.
What Can You Do with an Online PhD in Mathematics?
A Doctor of Mathematics degree is designed for those who wish to complete in-depth research and exploration of the various expressions of mathematics in our world.
Those who earn this degree may wish to work in educational, research-driven, financial, economic, or technological fields. They may also choose to work in a variety of STEM-related fields, in areas such as energy, software, corporate, government, and aerospace.
Common career paths for advanced mathematics professionals include mathematician, statistician, actuary, economist, data scientist, and operations research analyst. Those with a PhD may also pursue teaching or research roles in colleges and universities.
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Math Online?
It often takes between 3 to 5 years of full-time study to complete a PhD program. Your overall timeframe, though, could depend on the program you select and your enrollment status.
In many cases, the number of required credit hours combined with the dissertation process will dictate how long it takes to receive your degree. If a doctorate program does not have a dissertation requirement, a full-time student can typically complete the program in 3 years.
You may wish to compare programs’ course catalogs to understand the program structure and course schedule of each school you’re considering.
What’s the Difference Between Applied Mathematics vs. Mathematics PhD Programs?
There are many similarities between the topics studied in a PhD program in applied mathematics versus a PhD program in mathematics. The area of concentration for each program differs a bit in practice.
| PhD in Mathematics | PhD in Applied Mathematics |
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In each program, students are able to test theories, produce research, and examine principles, though the motivation and results may vary.
Is a Math PhD Degree Worth It?
Yes, a math PhD degree is worth it for many students. Math professionals can use their skills in a variety of areas, including finance, engineering, technology, education, and business.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment for math occupations is projected to grow by 29% over the next ten years. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. Common math careers include actuaries, data scientists, mathematicians, statisticians, and operations research analysts. A PhD can also help you qualify for positions in research and academia.
Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Mathematics Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Indiana University – Bloomington offers a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Mathematics Education. This degree is intended for individuals who have already obtained a master’s in a related field. The curriculum consists of 60 credits, and courses meet online. It covers topics like teaching methods, mathematical thinking, student assessment, and research skills.
Indiana University – Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Montana State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics (Education Emphasis). This program is designed for those who wish to pursue careers in K-12 educational settings. Potential courses include Principles of Mathematical Analysis, Models of Assessment in Mathematics, and Applied Educational Research. The completion of at least 60 credits is required to graduate.
Montana State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of Colorado – Denver offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Education and Human Development with a concentration in Mathematics Education. The curriculum is designed to teach the skills required to excel in diverse educational environments. The program utilizes a blend of online and on-campus delivery methods. The program’s 75 required credit hours can typically be completed in 4 to 8 years.
The University of Colorado – Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The University of Wyoming offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics Education. This program is designed to prepare students for work as scholar-leaders in settings like research institutions and universities. It can be completed entirely online. The curriculum consists of 81 credit hours and covers key concepts like multicultural education, curriculum development, learning and cognition, and assessment.
The University of Wyoming is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your PhD in Mathematics Online
In our technological and solution-driven world, the horizons and practical applications of mathematics are expanding daily.
A math PhD program could help you grow your professional qualifications in this lucrative field. Much like with a masters in mathematics online program, earning a PhD in Mathematics online could be a more flexible and convenient format for working professionals. The professional applications of an advanced mathematics degree are diverse. Many graduates use their PhD to advance in research, academia, business, or other areas of industry.
You could start exploring accredited schools today to see which online math PhD programs best align with your interests, schedule, and goals.
