The mathematics studies at university develop the cognitive abilities of the person, influence studies of special subjects as well as contribute to the development of professional competence. Nevertheless, several studies have been carried out to show that the quality of mathematical studies is decreasing and students' preparation and knowledge deteriorates. The article describes factors influencing the development of mathematics education, seeing motivation as a key element of successful teaching and learning. The article includes theoretical analysis of topical issues like the definitions of learning motivation, its influencing factors, which contribute to the development of mathematical thinking and competence, etc. Based on the analysis and evaluation of the scientific literature as well as taking into consideration the author's reflection, experience and observations, in the study the authors found out the factors influencing mathematics learning at the university, which include internal motives (attitude), rational thinking (potential values of mathematics and advantages in the labor market) and external factors (teaching of mathematics at the university). The findings illustrated by the results of the survey of the students from Latvia University of Life sciences and Technologies (LLU) and Riga Technical University (RTU) on the mathematics learning and teaching. The study proves that the higher the students' achievements in mathematics, the more positive attitude towards mathematics and mathematics studies at the university. [For the complete proceedings, see ED600498.]