Online Math Degree Programs

Question

Are there any real online mathematics (applied math, statistics, ...) degree programs out there?

I'm full-time employed, thus not having the flexibility of attending an on campus program. I also already have a MSc in Computer Science. My motivation for a math degree is that I like learning and am interested in the subject. I've studied through number of OCW courses on my own, but it would be nice if I could actually be able to have my studying count towards something.

I've done my share of Googling for this, but searching for online degrees seems to bring up a lot of institutions that (at least superficially) seem a bit shady (diploma mills?).

Answer 1

I would recommend against getting a degree from any online-only university. Even if you happen to find one that's not shady, everyone else who hasn't heard of it will assume it is some kind of diploma mill without bothering to do much research. Instead, I think you'd be better off going to a nearby university you're interested in, and ask them if they would be willing to make some kind of special arrangement for you. Many universities allow reduced course loads for students that have families or work full time, and aren't very good about advertising it.

Answer 2

For my experience, the Open University is well-respected internationally.

[Note this is different to Open Universities, such as this in Australia, which is a collaboration of several universities.]

Answer 3

The Rochester Institute of Technology offers a MS in applied statistics that is completely online (I think, I'm not enrolled yet.)

http://www.rit.edu/emcs/ptgrad/_program_detail.php?id=441

It's pretty expensive, since it combines the increased out-of-state tuition with the extra online cost. However an online degree such as this is good for working professionals who

1) Can't take classes during the day and 2) Can get their employer to pay for most of the degree.

Answer 4

The University of Washington offers an online masters degree. Their brick-and-mortar programme might make the online diploma more credible.

Answer 5

• Penn State has a Master of Applied Statistics.
• Stanford has Computational and Math Engineering.

From what I've read, many universities will not make a distinction on the degree stating whether it was earned online or not.

Answer 6

'Are there any real online mathematics (applied math, statistics, ...) degree programs out there?' That's real as opposed to imaginary, right? Heh, heh. :)

No, but seriously, I think you should just pursue your interests privately, without worrying about getting more pieces of paper than you need- your MSc is already proof of your academic proficiency and ability to complete challenging assignments correctly.

I reckon most employers, and other people, would be convinced that you take your maths hobby seriously and study it as carefully as you studied for your MSc.

I am also studying mathematics as a solo enthusiast and I just show people some of the proofs I am studying that week, if they are interested in finding out more. I am sure that's what the likes of Ramanujan would have done, so that'll do for me too!

Answer 7

For future readers: If you happen to speak German, by far the best option is the "Fernuniversität in Hagen", which offers a fully accredited mathematics bachelor and masters programme, full or part time. These are both more affordable and more rigorous (at least the bachelor) than comparable programmes offered by American universities and are just as trustworthy and high quality as those offered by any other German university (even more so if you ask me because the quality of the material they provide is excellent).