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.
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