How to Choose the Right Math Core Course

Students who are not transfering in College or AP credit for mathematics have five choices for the four hour math core requirement at Appalachian. Each course is described below, including a list of typical majors who enroll.

It is important to remember that these courses are suggestions, and there are few majors for which a particular core course is mandatory. For example, students majoring in non-technical fields such as art may opt to take Calculus rather than the recommended Math 1010, if they have an interest in calculus, or are thinking that a career emphasis is computer science might be interesting (cs courses require calculus).

What doesn't work is to take a course that has a lower number than what is required for a major. For example, science majors don't really benefit much from taking Math 1010, since they still must take Calculus.

Students should consult with their General Studies advisor when choosing a math course. Be honest about what you are interested in when talking to your advisor. That way you'll get the best possible advice!

  • MATH 1010 -- INTRODUCTION TO MATH

    This course is designed for students NOT interested in science or business as majors, minors or career emphases. It covers applications of mathematics from algebra and geometry. Knowledge of high school algebra and geometry is assumed (with a little review for students who haven't had those subjects in a while), and passing the math placement test is required.

    So who takes 1010? Students majoring in art, communication, criminal justice, dance, elementary education, English, family and consumer science, foreign languages, health education, history, interdisciplinary studies, music, physical education, philosophy and religion, political science, psychology, sociology and social work, and theater.

    Note: Non-technical majors who want to minor in business or science need to take a different math course depending on their minor.


  • MATH 1020 -- COLLEGE ALGEBRA

    This course is designed for students who are thinking about taking Business Calculus, but want to improve their algebra skills first. This course covers standard subjects in college algebra such as functions and expressions, linear, quadratic and rational expressions, and financial formulas. Knowledge of high school algebra is assumed (with review for students who haven't had those subjects in a while), and passing the math placement test is required.

    So who takes Math 1020? Students majoring in business who want to brush up on their algebra skills and other non-science majors who want a more traditional course than Math 1010.


  • MATH 1025 -- PRE-CALCULUS

    This course is strictly for students who need to take Calculus, but don't feel ready yet. This course is a fast paced review of algebra and trigonometry, and everything in the course is chosen specifically based on its usefulness in Calculus. Knowledge of high school algebra is assumed (with review for students who haven't had those subjects in a while), and passing the math placement test is required.

    So who takes Math 1025? Students who want an intensive algebra course to prepare them for majoring in astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, math, physics, and statistics. Some economics, geology, technology majors take 1025 as well.


  • MATH 1030 -- BUSINESS CALCULUS

    This course is strictly for students who are majoring in Business. It is required for admission to the College of Business, and covers mathematics needed in business such as functions and expressions, data fitting, and calculus, all as applied in business. Knowledge of high school algebra is assumed, and passing the math placement test is required.

    So who takes Math 1030? Students who are majoring in business and feel confident that their algebra skills are good.


  • MATH 1110 -- CALCULUS I

    This course is required for computer science, math, statistics and most science majors. It covers functions and calculus with an emphasis on scientific applications. Knowledge of high school algebra, geometry and trigonometry is assumed with minimal review. Students who feel that they need extensive review in these areas are encouraged to take Math 1025 before Calculus. Passing the math placement test or developmental math is required.

    So who takes Math 1110? Students who are majoring in astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, math, physics, and statistics. Some economics, geology, technology majors take 1110 as well.

One last note: Students who do not pass the placement test must take Math 0010 before they are eligible for any of the math courses listed above. Math 0010 -- Developmental Math -- is a remedial course the credit for which cannot be applied to graduation. Students must also pass Math 0010 before taking any course listed as ND -- numerical data intensive. Many science courses are ND, so students are encouraged to take and pass Math 0010 as early as possible in their studies.