Academic Policies

Mathematics Requirements

MATH 105 (Math in Modern Society) or PHIL 110 (Logic and Critical Thinking) or any three-unit mathematics course numbered above MATH 105 is required of all students. The appropriate course for an individual student will depend on the student's major and the corresponding math strand chosen (see the descriptions of the math strands below).

Mathematics Readiness Test:

Registration in all MATH courses below MATH 129, as well as MATH 160, MATH 263, and PHIL 110, requires all students to take the UA Mathematics Readiness Test (MRT).  Test scores are valid for one year. This requirement includes transfer students with or without mathematics credit and students with credit by examination, such as Advanced Placement (AP), CLEP, or International Baccalaureate (IB). The MRT is administered by the University Testing Office in Old Main, Room 223, (520) 621-7589.

Eligibility rules and testing information may be found on the Math Placement Homepage.

Math Strands:

Entry-level mathematics students should choose one of three strands according to their interests, preparation, and intended major. All strands presume that students will have completed the high school math required for entry to the University.

• G-Strand (General Knowledge) -- This strand involves a general understanding and appreciation of how mathematics is used to solve problems in everyday life; for example, the mathematics of voting and elections, or of networks and paths. The G-strand does not prepare a student for any further mathematically-based work:  it is a terminal course. Only those students whose major requires the most general knowledge of mathematics would take this strand. The options for this strand are MATH 105(Mathematics in Modern Society) and PHIL 110 (Logic and Critical Thinking). To satisfy the mathematics requirement G-Strand, students must attain a certain minimum score on the MRT.  Each of these courses requires a different score (see the chart provided on the Math Placement Homepage).
  
• M-Strand (Moderate Knowledge) -- The M-strand is for students who require mathematical facility at the level of at least MATH 110 (Collegiate Algebra). This strand involves reasonable facility with algebra and algebraic functions, graphs, and simple modeling. Students who choose the M-strand are prepared for further mathematical work. This work may include MATH 114 (Finite Mathematics), MATH 113 (Elements of Calculus), or a statistics class from outside the mathematics department.
  

• S-Strand (Substantial Knowledge) -- This strand involves skill and facility with calculus. The S-strand begins at one of two calculus options - MATH 124 (Calculus I with Applications) or MATH 125 (Calculus I). Students who successfully complete the S-strand may continue on to MATH 129 (Calculus II), MATH 223 (Vector Calculus), or beyond. Those who choose but are not ready to begin the S-strand will be required to take preparatory work.

Each major indicates the mathematics strand, or specific course from a strand, that is most appropriate for its students.  It is important to note that each strand provides a different level of mathematical training, but students can satisfy the mathematics requirement in their major by completing a more advanced mathematics course. Because the S-strand presumes the M-strand and the M-strand presumes the G-strand, students will have the most flexibility in their major choice by aiming for the S-strand. A student who chooses to meet the general education mathematics requirement with the G-strand will have the most restricted set of major choices.

Please direct all questions to the Math Department:

Related Topics:

• First-Year Composition
• General Education
• Second Language