1.1. Math Placement Scores and General Information

 

Each major at the U of A has a specific math requirement set by the major.

• Some majors have more than one requirement listed in the major section of the Academic Advisement Report.
• Students should not rely on the GE Math section of their Academic Advisement Report to determine which math course to take. 
• Consult your academic advisor or Academic Advisement Report (in Uaccess Student) to verify all math courses required for your major.

Find course information:

• Undergraduate Math Course information
  • University Catalog provides Math and other course descriptions
  • University Class Search
  • Math Course Websites
  • First and Second-Year Math Courses
  • Math Placement Chart - See what test scores or recent prerequisites are required to enroll.
• Graduate Math Course information

 

 

1.2. How do I submit my SAT/ACT/AP scores or official transcript (college credit)?

 

How do I submit my SAT/ACT/AP scores or college transcript (college credit)?   Once submitted, you'll see these placements in your U of A record as an MPLF score. Note that SAT/ACT math scores are used for placement for incoming first year students only.

SAT Math Scores: SAT Math scores must be from 8/1/2024-present to be used for placement Sign in to your College Board account, then go to the Send SAT Scores page.  Look for Get Your SAT Scores Click on View Details Go to Download Report to access a pdf of your full unofficial score report. A downloadable version of your score report is available under My Score Reports in PDF format. We need to see your full name, test date, and SAT I Math score in one image or pdf. Please send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office.

ACT Math Scores: ACT Math scores must be from 8/1/2024-present to be used for placement Sign in to your MyACT account Go to Scores Select your test date Right click to save the scores to your desktop as a pdf. A downloadable version of your ACT test score is available by using your browser’s print option - "print" as a pdf file. We need to see your full name, test date, and ACT Math score in one image or pdf. Please send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office.

AP Math Scores:  Note that if you already submitted an unofficial AP or other score report through the PAW, you do not need to send another one to the Math Department. It takes a few days to process.  If you will not have your AP scores before your registration date, then treat this situation as if you do not have AP credit. Take the PPL Assessment if it's recommended in your Next Steps Center math placement message. Send Official Scores to U of A: Sign in to your College Board account Send your scores to the University of Arizona. Visit the College Board Sending AP Scores FAQ page. Your official scores can take 1-3 weeks to process in the university system. Send Unofficial Scores to the Math Department: If you have official scores, and you are within 3 weeks of your registration date, ALSO send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office: A downloadable version of your score report is available in AP Scores for Students in PDF format. We need to see your full name, test date, and AP score in one image or pdf. You still also need to send your Official score report to the university to get your credits accounted for. Learn more about how U of A Math awards college credit.  Find out more about Math Transfer Credit.

College Credit: Note that if you already submitted an unofficial college transcript through the PAW, you do not need to send another one to the Math Department. It takes a few days to process.  If your course will not be completed or you will not have access to an unofficial college transcript prior to your registration date, then treat this situation as if you do not have college credit. Take the PPL Assessment if it's recommended in your Next Steps Center math placement message.  Generally, your math placement (MPLF for first year students) is updated if you have a course that matches U of A College Algebra (Math 112), Precalculus (Math 120R), Calculus (125 or 122A/B), Calculus II (Math 129), or Vector Calculus (Math 223, Calc III). For other courses, you will need to consult your advisor.  Learn how college math credit works.  Send Official Transcript to U of A: Send the transcript from the college institution, NOT your high school transcript. Sign into your college's website to order an Official transcript. If you have already sent your official college level transcript to U of A, your math placement (MPLF score) may not be updated until one week prior to your registration date. Send Unofficial Transcript to the Math Department: If you've completed your college course, and you are within 3 weeks of your registration date, ALSO send an unofficial transcript to the Math Placement Office: Download the full Unofficial Transcript in PDF format. We need to see your full name, the institution's name, the course name/number, course dates, and final course grade in one image or pdf. You still need to send your official transcript to the university to get your credits accounted for. Find out more about Math Transfer Credit.

 

1.3. What resources and support are available to me while taking my U of A Math course(s)?

• Keep in mind that college will be different than high school. You will likely need to put in more work more outside of class than you're used to. 
• Plan for success: For each hour in class, you need to plan on spending at least 3 hours outside of class on homework and studying.  This is true for most Math, Engineering, Science, Business, and other courses.
• Get to know students in your classes and study together outside of class.
• We are here to help you find resources that will support you along the way:  
• Instructors are available to you through Office Hours
• The Math Department offers tutoring  for some courses. 
• Tutoring and Academic Coaching resources are available through the ThinkTANK

Questions about accommodations for math courses? Contact the DRC (Disability Resource Center)

1.4. What Calculators are allowed for PPL (Math Placement Test) and Math Courses

Calculators Allowed

• Any non-graphing scientific calculator may be used for the ALEKS PPL test and most classes. 
• Many graphing calculators are also allowed for the PPL test (and highly recommended or required for some courses).

Examples of Calculators that Are Allowed on the PPL Assessment and many courses:

• Any non-graphing scientific calculator
• TI-30Xa, TI-30XS, TI-30XIIS, TI-36X Pro
• TI-81, TI-82, TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-85, TI-86
• TI-84 Plus, TI-84 Plus Silver Edition, TI-84 Plus C Silver Edition, TI-84 Plus CE, TI-84 Plus CE with Python
• Casio Graph 35+E, Casio fx-9750GII, fx-9750GIII, fx-9750G PLUS, fx-9860GII, fx-7400GII
• HP 48 series
• TI-Nspire CX and TI-Nspire CX II  (Not to be confused with the TI-Nspire CX CAS. CAS is not allowed.)

Calculators Not Allowed

• Calculators that perform symbolic manipulations cannot be used for the PPL or in courses at or below the Calc II level (Stats excluded).
• For courses, it's always a good idea to also refer to your course syllabus and/or ask your instructor.

Examples of Calculators that use symbolic manipulation, and are NOT Allowed on the PPL Assessment and courses at or below the Calc II level:

• TI-Nspire CX CAS
• TI-89, TI-89 Titanium
• TI-92
• Casio ClassPad II fx-CP400
• Casio ALGEBRA FX 2.0 PLUS
• HP Prime Graphing Calculator

Questions? 

If you have questions about your calculator, please Contact the Math Department with the exact model of your calculator.

 

 

1.5. Placement Chart and MPLF Scores

Placement Chart and MPLF Scores

This is for Fall  incoming first-year students only.

What is an MPLF score?

MPLF scores are given to first year students who have SAT/ACT math scores from 8/1/2024-present, or have some college math credit.

Where can I find my math placement?

You can verify your math placement in the Next Steps Center in the Math Placement section.

How is my MPLF score determined?

Use the charts below to see how your MPLF score is determined.

You are given the highest possible MPLF score based on all scores and credit in Next Steps Center.

For example: If you submit a College Algebra transfer credit equivalent to U of A Math 112 (MPLF 641) and an ACT Math score of 24 (MPLF 564)- your MPLF score would be 641.

SAT / MPLF Equivalency: 

Your MPLF score directly correlates with your SAT Math score.

For example: If you submit a SAT Math score of 530, your MPLF score would be 530.

 

Transfer Credit / MPLF Chart

Read more about Transfer Credit / Dual Enrollment Credit here.

 

Approved Transfer Credit (must be recent)	Corresponding MPLF Score	Eligible to take the following U of A Math Course
Exploring & Understanding Data (U of A Math 107)	541	Math 100
College Algebra (U of A Math 112)	641	Math 113, 116 (MIS 111), 120R, 119A, 163, 263, etc.
Elements of Calculus (U of A Math 113) Calculus Concepts for Business (U of A Math 116)	641	Math 119A, 120R, 163, 263, etc.
PreCalculus (U of A Math 120R) Precalculus AP- 3 or higher	661 663	Math 113, 119A, 163, 263,  Math 116 (after MIS 111) MATH 122A/B
Calculus I (U of A Math 122B)	810	Math 129, 163, 263
Calculus I (U of A Math 125) (AP Score: Calculus AB 3, 4, 5) (AP Score: Calculus BC 3) (Calculus BC subscore MBS 3)	815	Math 129, 163, 263
Calculus II (U of A Math 129) (AP Score: Calculus BC 4, 5)	820	Math 223, 254
Vector Calculus- Calculus III (U of A Math 223)	830	Math 254

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.1. About the PPL Assessment- (Math Placement Test) Rules, Fees, Important Information

About the PPL Assessment (Math Placement Test)

The University of Arizona Department of Mathematics is currently using the PPL Assessment tool for placement into all of its entry-level courses at or below the level of calculus I (Math 122A/B or 125).  For entry into Math 129 or higher level courses, appropriate prerequisite course credit is required and the PPL Assessment is not used. 

There are several topics on the PPL Assessment. In a relatively short period of time (60-90 minutes), the program assesses the percentage of the student's current knowledge of topics from the PPL Assessment topics (how many of the total topics has the student already mastered) by asking a small number of questions (usually 25).

The PPL Assessment covers a broad spectrum of pre-calculus material from first year high school algebra through precalculus. It is adaptive and chooses each question on the basis of a student's answers to all the previous questions. Each student, and therefore each set of assessment questions, is unique. It is impossible to predict the questions that will be asked. By the time the student has completed the assessment, there is a precise picture of her knowledge of the course, knowing which topics she has mastered and which topics she hasn't out of all of the topics in the course. An overview of how the PPL Assessment using ALEKS works is available.

Please review the information below before taking the PPL Assessment. 

Note that the PPL Assessment is part of the incoming student process. Students have limited access to take the test as an incoming student an should not expect unlimited attempts at the PPL. PPL accounts expire after 3 attempts or one year after a first login and are generally not extended.  It is important for students to enroll in and complete their math course required as early in their academic career as possible. 

Important Information	Important information about the PPL Assessment: How long is the test? The test 25 questions. Questions must be answered in order. You cannot go forward or backward to view or change answers. The test usually takes 60-90 minutes. There is a 3 hour time limit. If time expires, your current score is recorded. Complete the test in one sitting.  The problems must be done in order.   It is likely that you will be asked questions on material you have not yet learned. On such questions it is appropriate to answer, "I don't know." On any question that you have familiarity with, however, it is important to make an attempt and submit an answer. "I don't know" is interpreted by ALEKS to mean that you do not know the topic, and this will be reflected in the assessment results. Try your best to solve any problems that you think you might be able to solve. It is better to answer incorrectly on a topic that you have seen before, than to use the "I don't know" button and then skip related topics. You can view your score as soon as you have completed the test.  However, scores are processed into the U of A system daily on the hour from 5am to 10pm. Test Topics and Review
Test Rules	Don't cheat: Do not make use of any outside materials or persons while taking this assessment. Do not access any resources other than the approved materials listed below, such as a phone, tablet, another computer or device, any form of AI, videos about math, notes, books, etc. or communicate with other people. Note that your entire session is recorded and reviewed.   Test in a quiet area. You must be sitting at a table or desk. Your head, workspace, and hands must be in full view for the duration of the test. You may need to adjust the height and distance of your laptop or external webcam to meet these requirements.  Make sure no one is in the room with you while you are taking the PPL Assessment. Even if they are not helping you, this can lead to suspicious behavior.   Approved Materials: You can use an approved calculator (see list here), scratch paper, and writing materials. No other items are allowed.   Please stay in your seat  until the exam is complete.  If an interruption occurs, briefly explain what happened by speaking directly to your webcam.  If you are disconnected, you should log back in immediately and resume testing. Once you access the first test problem, your score will be recorded and is not changeable.  Your entire session must be recorded with audio and video, or your score may be invalidated. Make sure you are in a quiet location.  If there is excessive noise, or no audio, your test score may be invalidated and you will be asked to retest.   Do not block the video.  Any suspicious behavior may result in an invalidated test score and may be reported to the Dean of Students as a violation of the U of A Code of Conduct. Your score is not finalized until your video has been reviewed.  You can retest (usually for a fee) but you must wait 7 days between attempts if you still have an active account.     Students must use the PREP and LEARNING Module for at least 5 hours before completing their third attempt at the PPL. Find this in your Next Steps Center or Contact the Math Placement Office to see if you have access.  You cannot access the review module until you have taken the PPL Assessment.   The Math Department reserves the right to require in-person testing for any reason and deny a test or retest for any reason.
Fees	There is a $26 fee charged to the student's bursar account for each test, for all students except:   The first test for incoming First Year and International students is included in their new student fees if the first test is completed through the Next Steps Center access. The test must be completing during the incoming student process.  There is a fee after the first test ($26 per test) or for each test outside of the incoming student window.   U of A Online  campus student testing fees are paid through their campus fees and students are not charged directly for testing at this time.  Transfers and continuing students are charged for each attempt at the PPL Assessment.  For all other attempts at the PPL, students are charged through their bursar account.
Academic Honesty	Artificially high test results can be detrimental to student success and may result in a failing grade in your Math course. It is important to make an honest and unassisted attempt at the PPL Assessment to help you be successful in your Math course.  Take this exam as if you were taking an in-person proctored exam. Do not make use of any outside materials or persons while taking this assessment. Do not access any resources other than blank scratch paper and an approved calculator.  Do not use a phone, tablet, another computer or device, videos about math, notes, books, etc. or communicate with other people.  Any work that is not clearly your own is considered a violation of the testing rules.  Your score is not finalized until your recorded testing session has been reviewed, even if your score has already been processed into the U of A system.   Any suspicious behavior may result in an invalidated test score and may be reported to the Dean of Students as a violation of the U of A Code of Conduct and may be added to your U of A record.
Access Test	Access the PPL Assessment on the PPL website or set an in-person testing appoint during open testing periods.

 

 

2.2. Should I take the PPL Assessment?

For Transfer, Readmits, or Continuing students:

• If you have not taken math in several years, you should consider enrolling in Math 100 for review. No test scores are required.
• Recent (less than two years) prerequisite transfer credit can place you into a Math course. Contact the Math Placement Office.
• Note that there may be a fee for testing (transfer, continuing,  NDS, $26 fee).

For Incoming First Year Students:

If your Next Steps Center Math message recommends testing, please take the PPL Assessment.

Testing is required if:

• • You need to take a MATH course and have placed below the level of your major math requirement
  • Your SAT/ACT scores or college math credit place you below the level of your major math requirement
  • You have college level transfer credit, or credit by exam, below the level of your major math requirement

If there is a missing test score in your Next Steps Center or you have college math credit, send a copy of your scores or credit to  Math Placement Office.

Students should test at least one week prior to their orientation date, if possible. However, tests completed prior to orientation will be processed in time for course registration. 

 

Testing cannot hurt your placement level. Your Math course will be based on your highest placement score.

 

If you have transfer credit, check the information in the Math Placement section of your Next Steps Center (incoming students only) or on our transfer website.

If you still have questions, contact the Math Placement Office.

2.3. Study/Prepare- How can I study and prepare before the PPL Assessment?

Test Topics

Below is a list of possible topics that may be covered in the Math Placement test. Note that not all students will see all topics. The PPL Assessment is an adaptive program that will present a variety of questions to narrow down the topics you have mastered. 

Topics covered:

• Real numbers (including fractions, integers, and percentages)
• Equations and inequalities (including linear equations, linear inequalities, systems of linear equations, and quadratic equations)
• Linear and quadratic functions (including graphs and functions, linear functions, and parabolas), exponents and polynomials (including integer exponents, polynomial arithmetic, factoring, and polynomial equations), rational expressions (including rational equations and rational functions.
• Radical expressions (including higher roots and rational exponents)
• Exponentials and logarithms (including function compositions and inverse functions, properties of logarithms, and logarithmic equations)
• Geometry and trigonometry (including perimeter, area, and volume, coordinate geometry, trigonometric functions, and identities and equations)

A more detailed list of topics is available through the ALEKS PPL website.

General Review for the PPL Assessment: Students can find exam guides from our courses on the course website under Exam Information. 

• College Algebra, Math 112, Review 
• Calculus Preparation, Math 120R, Review 
• Other courses: You can find review on the some of the course webpages  
  •  

Review after you have completed the PPL Assessment: Once you have taken the PPL Assessment, you have can improve your knowledge in a Prep and Learning Module for review. You can access it through the Math Placement section of your  Next Steps Center. If you no longer have access to your Next Steps Center, you can use this form to  contact the Math Placement Office to see if you have access.  Access to the PPL and the Prep and Learning Module expires after one year. 

2.4. Are there accommodations available or can I use screen reading software?

The Math Placement Assessment is a 60 minute test.  Extra time, up to 3 hours, is allowed for all students. 

• If  you require other accommodations, contact your DRC counselor for assistance.  Note that notes are not allowed as a reasonable accommodation.  
• If you require screen reading technology, you can use JAWS. You can find the configuration requirements here. 

 

 

3.1. About Respondus Lockdown Browser and Online Proctoring

Respondus LockDown Brower is an online proctoring service that is used for proctoring the PPL Assessment. Respondus is a secure testing browser that restricts students from accessing other applications. It uses your webcam and microphone to record a video as you complete the PPL Assessment, and flags suspicious activity for the institution to review.  

When taking the PPL Assessment or any test using an online proctoring service, students are expected to take it as if they were in an in-person proctored environment.  No outside materials, websites, videos, people, notes or assistance of an kind is allowed. While taking the PPL Assessment, students must be sitting at a desk or table. The student's workspace, head, and hands must be in view at all times during the recorded testing session as shown on our website. 

The testing session must be recorded in order for the PPL score to be valid.  Violations of testing rules or suspicious behavior will result in an invalidated test score and may be reported to the Dean of Students. 

Steps for using Respondus Monitor

• Take the PPL Assessment on a PC or Mac Computer, not your phone or a tablet.
• Make sure you have a webcam with a microphone.
• Check your computer requirements for installation of Respondus Lockdown Browser.  
• Download Respondus Lockdown Browser  on your PC, MAC, or Chromebook here
  
  • Video- How do I install LockDown Browser?    Follow the steps below:
    • Select your computer type (Windows, Mac, Chromebook, DO NOT USE an IPAD, phone, or tablet)
    • Download the LockDown Browser
    • Launch LockDown Browser. You may need to  select "Launch LockDown Browser+ Webccam" or "execute LockDown Browser" or "allow app to make changes to your device:.
• You are encouraged to view the Respondus Terms of Service and Privacy Policy  before taking the PPL Assessment. 
• Note that your testing session will be recorded and reviewed and you must follow the testing rules and set-up described on the PPL Website. 
• If you are having issues, first check our General Troubleshooting and Errors article. 

PPL Testing Steps

• Agree to terms of use and pair your account
• Learn about ALEKS and the PPL Assessment.
  • Select your U of A course (one shown on the screen)
  • Complete the tutorial
• Select Get Started to begin the Placement Assessment (PPL).  
• If you are retesting, look for Placement Assessment and select START. 
  • You must use the Prep and Learning review module for at least 5 hours before your third attempt at the PPL.
  • Look for  "Improve your Knowledge in a Prep and Learning Module "and select Get Started (this is not a test and is not used for placement). 
• Enter the Password. It is provided through PPL form.
• Complete the startup sequence
• Begin the PPL Assessment.  

3.2. General Troubleshooting and Errors

If you are having trouble with the Respondus LockDown Browser Installation process please try these steps.

1. Make sure you are testing on a PC, MAC, or Chromebook. The testing process is not compatible with iPads or tablets. You will also need a strong internet connection. If possible, use an ethernet cord instead of using wifi. Do not use your phone. 
2. If you are using a MAC, sometimes there are issues with Safari.  Try using a different browser. 
3. Check your computer requirements for installation of Respondus LockDown Brower.  You may need to try using a different computer. 
4. Common issues:
   • Sometimes Respondus Monitor is down for maintenance, or other issues.  You might see a message like "Unable to launch the Respondus Monitor startup sequence for the exam. Please try again later." Try again later.
   • If you are not able to click on the "Begin Exam" button or screen freezes before starting the exam
     
     • There may be a wifi signal issue.  Restart your modem/router.
     • Shut down all bandwidth-intensive apps that might be running on your network (Netflix, any streaming, online gaming, etc.)
     • Us an ethernet cord to connect to the internet directly through your modem/router.
     • Restart your computer and shut down all other programs running on the computer.
     • Wait a day or so and then try again. 
     • If the issue persists, try using a different internet connection. 
   • Blank Screen
5. Check their the ALEKS Troubleshooting website and use the search feature. This page provides information and assistance with:
   • System requirements
   • Lockdown Brower is not launching or downloading
   • Windows 10 using S mode
   • Spyware detection or anti-virus software interfering with Respondus
   • How to remove programs running in the background
   • Browser not compatible error message
   • Screencastify error
6. More information can be found through the Student Support FAQs and technical support here.
7. Live Chat with Respondus here.
8. If you are not able to resolve your issue with the links above, please contact Respondus directly by submitting a helpdesk ticket here.
9. If you are not able to get Respondus Monitor to work, sometimes the best solution is to use a different computer. 

 

 

 

4.1. Transfer Math Courses and Evaluation Procedures

If you have college math credit, or want to see if a college math course will transfer to U of A, please follow the steps on our Transfer Website. 

• Many courses or exams (credit by exam) automatically award U of A credit.
• If you plan on taking a course outside of U of A, it is important to have the course approved before enrolling.

4.2. I have Math credit for International Baccalaureate - IB

View the list of IB Math exams and how U of A awards Math credit  in the table below:

Official scores must be sent to the U of A Office of the Registrar.  

See the U of A IB Catalog policies for other IB exam credits. 

 

What do I need to do to add the next U of A Math course based on my Math credit? If your credits are not in the U of A system, make sure you send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office.

If you haven’t already, send an Official Score Report to the U of A Registrar. This is not provided through your High School.

 

It is the student's responsibility to make sure he/she is enrolled in the correct U of A Math course after college credits are processed into the U of A system. Once your score is processed by U of A, you can view your credit in UAccess Student: Academic Record: Transfer Credit.  Students can contact the Math Placement Office for additional information.

4.3. I have Math credit for the Cambridge International Examination, Pearson Edexcel International, A-level, or AQA exams.

U of A Math awards college level credit for the following exams:

You can view how U of A awards credit for other Cambridge Exams here.

What do I need to do to add the next U of A Math course based on my Math credit? If your credits are not in the U of A system, make sure you send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office.

Send Scores: Official scores must be sent to the U of A Office of the Registrar. If you haven’t already, send an Official Score Report to the U of A Registrar through the Cambridge International Examination Program site. This is not provided through your High School.  Once your score is processed by U of A, you can view your credit in UAccess Student: Academic Record: Transfer Credit report.

It is the student's responsibility to make sure he/she is enrolled in the correct U of A Math course after college credits are processed into the U of A system. Students can contact the Math Placement Office for additional information.

4.4. I have CLEP Math credit

U of A Math awards college level credit for the following CLEP exams:

 

 

No credit is given for the College Mathematics CLEP Exam.

https://catalog.arizona.edu/policy/courses-credit/credit/credit-exam#college-level-examination-program-clep1 

The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a national system of credit by examination.  To view U of A information for CLEP exams, see the U of A Policy for CLEP Credit. 

What do I need to do to add the next U of A Math course based on my Math credit? If your credits are not in the U of A system, make sure you send an unofficial score report to the Math Placement Office.

If you haven’t already, send an Official Score Report to the U of A Registrar through the College Board CLEP Program site. 

It is the student's responsibility to make sure they are enrolled in the correct U of A Math course after CLEP credits are processed into the U of A system. Students can contact the Math Placement Office for additional information.

To take a CLEP Exam:

1. Register and pay the exam fee for the appropriate U of A accepted Math CLEP exam through clep.collegeboard.org/exams. NOTE: Not all CLEP exams are accepted for credit by the University of Arizona. See the link above for currently accepted exams.
2. Call the U of A Testing Office at 621-7589 to make a testing appointment and pay the proctoring fee.
3. Go to the U of A Testing Office, 220 W. 6th Street - Building B - Room B116, to take the exam at your appointment date and time. 

 

4.5. I have Advanced Placement (AP) Math Credit- Precalc, Calc (AB, BC) , or Statistics Exam Credit

 

To view how U of A awards credit for AP exams, see the U of A Policy for AP Credit. 

 

U of A Math awards college level credit for the following AP exams:

Exam Name	Required Minimum Score	U of A Math Credit	Units
Precalculus (PCL) - New in 2024	3, 4, or 5	Math 120R, Calculus Preparation	4 units
Calculus AB (MAB)	3, 4, or 5	Math 125, Calculus I	3 units
Calculus BC (MBC)	3	Math 125, Calculus I	3 units
Calculus BC (MBC)	4 or 5	Math 125 & Math 129, Calculus I & II	6 units
AB subscore on Calculus BC (MBS)	3, 4, or 5	Math 125, Calculus I	3 units
Statistics (MST) *	3	Math 163, Basic Statistics	3 units
Statistics (MST) *	4 or 5	Math 263, Intro to Statistics and Biostatistics	3 units

*Statistics courses are not used for Math Placement. 

See how the University of Arizona awards credit for other AP exams here.

Students can contact the Math Placement Office for additional information about their individual circumstance. It is the student's responsibility to make sure they are enrolled in the correct U of A Math course after college credits are processed into the U of A system. 

To get credit for your AP Exam, please do BOTH of these things:

1. Send an Official Score Report to the U of A Registrar through the College Board Advanced Placement Program site. This is not provided through your High School.

2. Check if U of A has processed your score:

• Check to see if your transfer credit is in UAccess. You can check this a week before your orientation. If U of A has your score, we can use this for your fall schedule. 
• If U of A does not have your score:  Email a copy of your AP score report to the Math Placement Office one week before your orientation.  Include your Student ID number (8 digits) and Orientation date. If you have questions about your next math course, please include that in the email.
• If you do not have your score yet, then you may need a math placement for registration purposes.  Incoming students should refer to their Next Steps Center. 

 

4.6. I took the AP Calculus exam (AB or BC) in May of this year and don’t have my score yet.

 

Official scores must be sent to the U of A Office of the Registrar.  If you did not designate the U of A as a recipient of your score at the time of your exam, you may send your scores to the U of A through the College Board Advanced Placement Program site.

 

Note that you will be able to add Math 129 (Calc II), Math 223 (Vector Calc), or Math 254 (Differential Equations) to your fall schedule based on your anticipated AP score.   If you expect a score of 4 or 5 on the AB exam, you can add Math 129.  If you expect a score of 4 or 5 on the BC exam, you can add Math 223 or 254.  Consult your academic advisor.  The Math Department will verify these prerequisites starting in August 1. If you find that you received a lower score, please refer to the following link to determine if you are ready to take the "next" course.

First year students: Please note that you may still need to take the PPL Assessment if you do not have credit or SAT/ACT math scores that place you into other courses like CHEM 151 or CSC 110.   If you do not have your score yet, please follow the instructions in the math placement section of your  Next Steps Center.  

If you have additional questions about this after meeting with your academic advisor, contact the Math Placement Office 

 

4.7. I took the AP Precalculus Exam in May of this year and I don't have my score yet (for First Year Students)

Official scores must be sent to the U of A Office of the Registrar.  If you did not designate the U of A as a recipient of your score at the time of your exam, you may send your scores to the U of A through the College Board Advanced Placement Program site.

A score of 3 or higher on the AP Precalculus exam awards credit for the University of Arizona Math 120R, Calculus Preparation.  This course places students into several other courses like Math 113, 116 (after MIS 111), Math 119A, Math 122A/B, Math 163, Math 263, SBS 200, etc.   Find out about these courseson our course information pages.

Please note that you may still need to take the PPL Assessment if you do not have credit or SAT/ACT math scores that place you into other courses like CHEM 151 or CSC 110.   If you do not have your score yet, please follow the instructions in the math placement section of your Next Steps Center.  

If you have additional questions about this after meeting with your academic advisor, contact the Math Placement Office 

4.8. I have college math credit. What course can I take next?

If you have college math credit, you may qualify for U of A MATH or other courses.  Note that high school dual enrollment credit does not guarantee you are ready for the next U of A Math course. You should review the final exam study guides to make sure you are ready.  

Find out how AP, IB, Cambridge, CLEP and other credits transfer.

Course registration and transfer prerequisites, in general:

• Entry into Math 108 or 112 is through recent test scores only (PPL for Math 100 final for any student, SAT/ACT Math for first year students only).
• Below the level of Calculus I (Math 122A/B, 125): *For courses in bold below, prerequisites must be less than 2 years old.   This list includes Math 106, 107, 113, 116, 119A, 120R, 122A/B, 263, 302A. 
• Entry into Math 125 is through AP credit for Math 125, or test scores only (PPL for any student, SAT/ACT Math for first year students only).
• At or above the level of Calculus II (Math 129): For entry into MATH courses at or above the level of Calculus II (Math 129), you need the correct prerequisite. If the course is more than 2 years old, you can still register at this level, but may want to first review. 
• To find registration information about other courses on our website.

The chart below gives the transfer or dual enrollment prerequisite for some of our courses. 

Transfer Math Credit/Prerequisite	Next Course  *denotes that transfer prerequisite it must be less than 2 years old, or student will need to take the PPL Assessment.	Recommended review to make sure you know the content of the University of Arizona courses.
Intermediate Algebra like Pima MAT 095/097	Math *106,  *107
Math 107,  Understanding Data	ISTA 116,  *Math 203A, 203E
Math 112, College Algebra	Courses listed above and  Math *113, *116 (after MIS 111), *120R, *119A, 163, *263 AREC 239, MCB 181L/R, CHEM 141/151, PHYS 110, other courses
Math 113, Elements of Calculus Math 116, Calculus Concepts for Business	Courses listed above and  *Math 120R	Review U of A Math 112 Final Exam Study Guide under Exam Information
Math 120R, Calculus Preparation	Courses listed above and *MATH 122A/B	Review U of A Math 120R Exam Study Guides under Exam Information
Math 122B or Math 125, Calculus I	Math 129	Review U of A Math 122B Final Exam Study Guide under Exam Information
Math 129, Calculus II	Math 223, Math 254, Math 313	Review U of A Math 129 Final Exam Study Guide
Other Math credit	Check our website or consult your advisor	See course webpages.

 

 

 

4.9. I have credit for AP Statistics. What does this count for? What course can I take next?

 

See chart below. U of A Math 163 and 263 are not prerequisites to U of A Math or lab science courses (MCB 181L/R, CHEM 141/151, PHYS 102/181) other than Math 302A, which applies to some Education majors.

 

If your major requires Math 112 or higher  and you have statistics credit, you may still need to take Math 112 as it is needed as a prerequisite to other courses in your major.  Consult your academic advisor. 

4.10. I have AP or other Calculus credit, how do I know if I am ready to take the “next” course?

 

Not all AP students are ready to move to the next math course. Many students choose to begin their college math courses with the same level they just finished in high school. This way, students can fill gaps and reinforce necessary skills while getting used to college life.

 

To help determine what course you are ready for:

Visit our Calculus webpages. You will find Final Exam study guides on each page.  If you find yourself very familiar with the content of a guide, you may be ready to move on to the next course. 

 

Our recommendations based on past student success. 

 

4.11. Credit by Exam

Generally students will earn Math credit by exam through the CLEP Examination process.

In limited circumstances, the Math Department may approve a U of A Credit by Exam. The available courses for Credit by Exam may change over time.  To see if a course has the option to earn Credit by Exam, look in the U of A Course Catalog. In the course description of a particular course, you should see a Course Attribute that says "Special Exam Credit Only" if the Credit by Exam option is offered. If this course attribute is not stated, then Credit by Exam is not offered for that course.

Note that you must demonstrate that you are a good candidate for credit by exam in order to be allowed to take one through the Math Department.  To see if you qualify for credit by exam for a U of A Math course, please contact the Math Academic office.

Students are allowed only one attempt at credit by exam for a particular course and if offered,  is generally administered before the start of the semester. 

4.12. Is my transfer or AP (or other) credit in the U of A system?

1. Go to Uaccess Student, Student Center.  

2. Go to the Academic Record Tab

3. Go to Transfer Credit

 

 

4.  Any transfer credits posted in the U of A system will appear here and may look something like this.  

 

 

If credit transfers as Math 1tr or Math 3tr and is NOT Intermediate Algebra and is more than 2.5 units, then the course needs an evaluation :

     

Intermediate algebra courses transfer as math elective credit if they are from 2008 -present.  These do not need an evaluation.

Beginning algebra, Intro to Algebra, Pre-Algebra, Basic Math, and similar courses are non-credit and do not need an evaluation. 

 

Some courses look like they are a partially elective credit like the one below, but these do not require an evaluation (a 1 or 2 credit Math 1tr does not need an evaluation). The course below transferred as Math 120R (4 units) and Math 1tr 1-unit.  This sometimes happens when a course has more units that the U of A version.  

 

AP and other credit by exam appears here as well.  

    

 

 

5.1. Math Registration Overview

Each major at the University of Arizona has a specific math requirement. Consult your advisor if you're not sure what math courses you need to satisfy your major.

In order to register for a math course, you must satisfy the course's prerequisite and eligibility criteria. Students can meet the eligibility requirements for U of A Math courses through 

• Math Department approved prerequisite course work, completed generally within the last 2 years
• The PPL Assessment (Math Placement Test). The PPL Assessment is for entry into courses at or below the level of Calculus I.
• Incoming first year students can qualify through recent SAT I MSS (Math) or ACT Math scores.  

See below for information about UA Math courses.

• First and Second year MATH courses
• Math course websites
• University Catalog - Descriptions of all Math courses
• Schedule of Classes

5.2. Math courses taken at another institution

Many math courses at other institutions will transfer as U of A Math courses. Check how your math courses will transfer on our Math Transfer Webpage. 

Using a Transfer Course as a Prerequisite:

If your transfer course is below the level of Calculus I, you will need to complete the course BEFORE you're able to register for the subsequent course at the U of A.  Once your grade has posted, contact the Math Placement Office with a PDF of your unofficial transcript showing the name of the institution, your name, course, semester, and grade (must be C or better).

Be sure to include your U of A student ID number when you send the email. Once we verify the course and grade, we can open enrollment into the next course.

If your transfer course is Calculus I or higher, you will still need to provide proof of successful completion to the Math Placement Office before the start of your U of A class, but you may be able to enroll in the next U of A course before your transfer course is complete. Contact the Math Placement Office with this request.

 

5.3. I can't enroll in my Math class. What's going on?

Class is closed

• Math courses do not have waitlists. Please choose a different section.
• If all sections are closed, please keep checking UAccess often for an open seat. 
• Note: Placing a class in your Shopping Cart does not hold a seat in the class.

I received a "Requisites Not Met" error message: 

1. You may not be eligible to take this class. Check the course prerequisites or enrollment requirements.
2. UAccess may be reading an old grade. UAccess looks at the first time you received credit for the prerequisite course.  If you took the prerequisite course more than once, and did not achieve a sufficient grade the first time, UAccess may be "reading" your old, lower grade.  Contact the Math Placement Office, as our staff can add a note so UAccess will recognize your prerequisite credit.
3. Your prerequisite transfer course may be too old. If your prerequisite class was taken at another institution, and is more than 3 semesters old, the material is outdated. You may be required to take the ALEKS PPL placement exam. If you end up testing below the level you were expecting, you should contact the Math Placement Office for advising.
4. UAccess may not be recognizing your prerequisite transfer course. If your prerequisite class was taken at another institution, the system may not be recognizing it correctly.  Contact the Math Placement Office, so our staff can evaluate your credit, and note UAccess if appropriate.

I received a "hold" error message

• Check the negative service indicator (red circle with a slash through it) in the upper right-hand corner of your UAccess screen.
• Contact the appropriate UA department to address your hold.

I am repeating this class

You may have reached the University Repeat Limit of 3 attempts at any one class. If so, Contact the Math Placement Office

Questions? 

If you believe you are eligible for a class and still cannot enroll, please contact the Math Placement Office.

 

5.4. I want to take a course below the level of a course I have already completed. Can I do that?

Usually, the answer is No.

Students may not enroll in courses that serve as prerequisites for courses they have already successfully completed. Exceptions are rare, and must be approved by the Math Placement Office 

(Note that MATH 106, 107, 163, and 263 do not serve as prerequisites and thus do not fall under this rule. Students can take these courses, even if they have completed higher level courses.) 

6.1. Review and Prepare for Math Courses, Tips for Success

Tips for Success in the University of Arizona Math Courses

• Start preparing before classes begin. Go to the course website, look at the course syllabus, and get started on the first few weeks of assignments, with the goal that the first few weeks of lecture will be review. This is a formula for success. Do not walk into your first U of A Math course without doing some meaningful review.
• Students who place into a course with the minimum requirements should consider taking the prerequisite.
• Review and be prepared.

Reviewing Prerequisite Material

Once you have satisfied the eligibility requirements for a particular U of A MATH course, it is important to know the prerequisite material for that particular course. Below is a list of U of A MATH courses with links to material that students need to understand prior to taking that particular course. In general, this is material that is not reviewed during the course.

Prepare for College Algebra and lower-level Math courses: MATH 106, 107, 108, 112

• • Intermediate Algebra Virtual Lab; Worksheets and More Review
  • College Algebra and Intermediate Algebra Review
    • Review
    • Expanded Review
    • Solutions
    • Worked Solutions

Prepare for Preparation for Calculus: MATH 120R

• • Math 112 preparation materials listed above
  • College Algebra and Some Trig
    
    • Expanded Review
    • Solutions
    • Worked Solutions
  • Trig Identities and Definitions
  • Trigonometry Review; Solutions

Prepare for Elements of Calculus: MATH 113, and Calculus Concepts for Business: Math 116

• • Intermediate Algebra Virtual Lab; Worksheets and More Review
  • College Algebra and Intermediate Algebra Review
    • Review
    • Expanded Review
    • Solutions
    • Worked Solutions
  • College Algebra Book and Problems

Prepare for Calculus I: MATH 122A/B, 125

• • Math 120R preparation materials listed above
  • Math 120R Website
  • Calculus Preparation
  • Precalculus Review from old exam study guide
    • Review
    • Expanded Review
    • Solutions
    • Worked Solutions
  • College Algebra and Some Trig
    • Review
    • Expanded Review
    • Solutions
    • Worked Solutions
  • Trig 
    • Trig Identities and Definitions
    • Trigonometry Review; Solutions

6.2. Math 100- Math Lab, Review Course to Prepare Students for Math 106, 107, 108, 112 (Depending on Major)

Math 100 - Math Lab (3 credits)

Description: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for a university-level math class. Successful completion of Math 100 provides students with the skills and placement level needed for their next math course.

Placement Level: Students who have a PPL score that places them below Math 106, 107, 108, or 112  (depending on major) take Math 100. 

Comments: Math 100 is a review course designed to prepare students for the next U of A Math course. This course uses an artificially intelligent assessment and learning system that uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine what math topics a student knows, then instructs each student individually on the topics they are most ready to learn. 

Fall First Year Students:  Student who place into Math 100 through the scores listed below are also enrolled in UNIV 100:

• PPL 1-15
• SAT I MSS 200-450
• ACT Math 1-16
• MPLF 200-456

About UNIV 100:  UNIV 100 is a 1-credit hour course designed to provide additional support for students preparing for college level math. The purpose of this course is to complement MATH 100 with additional time to review, practice, and receive support either through help with coursework or the math placement learning mode. This course will also strengthen study skills and learning strategies that can be applied to MATH 100, future math courses, and other college level coursework.

6.3. Math 106- For Students in the College of Education

Math 106 - Exploring and Understanding Patterns, Functions, and Modeling for Elementary Teachers (3 credits)

Description: This course explores algebraic thinking from early childhood through middle school, with a focus on the different conceptions of algebra, including generalized arithmetic; patterns and functions; and modeling. Students will examine the different topics in K-8 algebra from an advanced perspective. Examinations are proctored.

Placement Level:  PPL score of 18-100% , SAT I MSS 500-800, ACT MATH 18-36, or MCLG 25 (Math 100 final) required.  SAT/ACT placement is for first year students only. 

Prerequisite: Recent Intermediate Algebra course like Pima MAT 095 or 097 completed within the last 2 years.  Math 100 is not a prerequisite, students must qualify through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level:  Take Math 100, then Math 106

Comments: This course is generally for majors within the College of Education. This course cannot be used as a prerequisite for any other mathematics courses including Math 108 or 112 (except Math 302A for Elementary Education.) If you think you might change your major to one that does not allow Math 106, you should consider Math 107 or 112 instead.

 

6.4. Math 107- For Students in SBS, PSYCBA, and a few other majors.

Math 107 - Exploring and Understanding Data (3 credits)

Description: This course helps students understand, interpret, and represent data in a useful way to prepare students for courses in statistics. The course will provide students with the knowledge of basic mathematical and software tools and concepts which they can utilize to interpret quantitative information they encounter in their daily life. With the knowledge they gain, students will be able to better understand and assess the validity of quantitative information they receive through the web, newspaper, television, etc. Course topics will include creating various data summaries and descriptive statistics, probability, normal distributions, linear and other regression models, applying techniques to real world data.

Placement Level: PPL score of 18-100% , SAT I MSS 500-800, ACT MATH 18-36, or MCLG 25 (Math 100 final) required.  Test scores expire after 2 years.  SAT/ACT placement is for first year students only.  

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Take Math 100, then Math 107

Comments: Math 107 is not a prerequisite to other MATH courses. Prerequisite to SBS 200, ISTA 116. For the following majors: Care Health and Society, Communication, Criminal Justice, Family Studies and Human Development, Information Science and Arts, Political Science, Psychology BA, Public Management and Policy, Regional Development, Sociology and some other major. Generally a Spring course for first year students. 

 

6.5. Math 108- For Architecture

Math 108 - Modeling with Algebraic and Trigonometric Functions (4 credits)

Description: Using algebraic and trigonometric functions to model real-life situations. Course topics include ratios and proportions, functions and graphs, linear and quadratic functions and equations, trigonometric functions and equations, sinusoidal curve-fitting, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, all with an emphasis on relevant applications.

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 40-100% ,  SAT I MSS 560-800, ACT MATH 24-36, or MCLG 55 (Math 100 final)  required.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Take Math 100, then Math 108

Comments: This course is designed for Architecture majors only, but Math 108 is a prerequisite to most courses that use Math 112 as a prerequisite, including CHEM 151, MCB 181L/R, Math 120R, and other courses.  

 

6.6. Math 112- College Algebra

MATH 112 -- College Algebra Concepts and Applications  (3 units)

Description:  Topics include properties of functions and graphs, linear and quadratic equations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions with applications. Students are expected to have a graphing calculator. 

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 40-100% ,  SAT I MSS 560-800, ACT MATH 24-36, or MCLG 55 (Math 100 final) required.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Take Math 100, then Math 112

Comments: U of A MATH 112 is a prerequisite to U of A Math 113 (C or higher required) , 116 (C or higher and MIS 111/BE 120 required), 119A, 120R, 163, 263 and other courses. 

 

6.7. Math 113- Overview of Calculus for Psychological Sciences, Pharmacy, Econ, Speech Language Hearing Sci, and a few other majors

Math 113 - Elements of Calculus (3 credits)   

Description: Introductory topics in differential and integral calculus. 

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100% , SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36, or U of A  Math 112 (grade of C or higher) is required for placement into this course.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Note that students cannot place into this course through Math 100. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Math 100, then Math 112 (grade of C or higher), then Math 113. Transfer prerequisites must be less than 2 years old to place a student into Math 113.  

Math 120R and Math 108 (C or higher) are also prerequisites to Math 113. 

Comments: For Pharmacy majors, Psychological Sciences,  Anthropology BS,  Economics, some majors within the College of Agriculture. Because this course is considered a survey of calculus, it cannot be used to satisfy the Math 122B/125 requirement and cannot be used as a prerequisite to additional calculus courses such as Math 122A, 122B, 125, or 129. Students who need Calculus I should take Math 120R, then 122A/B instead. 

 

6.8. Math 116- Calculus for Business and Related Majors

Math 116 – Calculus Concepts for Business Majors (3 credits)

Description:  Introductory topics in differential and integral calculus: particular emphasis on understanding the principal concepts and their applications to business. Graphing calculators are used for further understanding these concepts.

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100% , SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36, or U of A Math 112 (grade of C or higher) required for placement into this course.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Math 100, then Math 112 (grade of C or higher) (and MIS 111/BE 120), then Math 116.  

Transfer math prerequisites must be less than 2 years old to place a student into Math 116. 

Math 120R and Math 108 (C or higher) are also prerequisites to Math 116 (and MIS 111/BE 120).

Comments: This course is for all majors within Eller College and a few in  CALES.  Because this course is a survey of calculus for business related majors, it cannot be used to satisfy the Math 122B/125 requirement and cannot be used as a prerequisite to additional calculus courses such as Math 122A, 122B, 125, or 129. Students who need Calculus I should take Math 120R, then 122A/B instead. Generally available in Spring as students must also have completed MIS 111 or ABE 120 to be eligible.

 

6.9. Math 119A- Special Calculus Course with Biological Emphasis, alternative for Biology, EEB, MCB, and a few other majors

Math 119A - Mathematics of Biological Systems: A Calculus Based Approach (4 credits)

Description:  This course uses real world examples drawn from biology, ecology, and physiology to develop and study models of biological dynamical systems using concepts from calculus. 

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100% , SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36, or U of A Math 112 required for placement into this course.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 119A.  Transfer prerequisites must be less than 2 years old to place a student into Math 119A.  Math 108 or 120R are also used as a prerequisite to Math 119A. 

Comments: This course is for majors within Physiology, Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Psychological Sciences, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences and a few other majors. Consult your advisor before enrolling in Math 119A.  This course does not cover the same content as Math 122B/125 and cannot be used as a prerequisite to additional calculus courses such as Math 122A, 122B, 125, or 129. Students who need Calculus I should take Math 120R, then 122A/B. Math 119A is not a prerequisite to Math 129, Calculus II. 

 

6.10. Math 120R-Calculus Preparation

Math 120R - Calculus Preparation  (4 units) 

Description: Reviews algebra and trigonometry; study of functions including polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric. Graphing calculators are required in this course. 

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100%,  SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36  required.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level:  Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R. Transfer prerequisites must be less than 2 years old to place a student into Math 120R.  

Math 108 is also a prerequisite to Math 120R.

Comments: This course is intended to prepare students for Math 122A/B. Students who need to take Math 122A/B but do not place into it, should take Math 120R first (C or higher required).

 

6.11. Math 163- Basic Statistics

Math 163- Basic Statistics (3 credits)

Description: Organizing data: displaying distributions, measures of center, measures of spread, scatterplots, correlation, regression, and their interpretation. Design of experiments: simple random samples and their sampling distribution, models from probability, normal distributions, and normal approximations. Statistical inference: confidence intervals and hypothesis testing, t procedures and chi-square tests. Not intended for those who plan further studies in statistics.

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100% , SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36, or U of A Math 112 required for placement into this course.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

Student can qualify for Math 163 after taking Math 108, 112, 113, 116, 120R, 119A, 122B,  or 125.  

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level: Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 163.  Students who have credit for Math 108, 119A, 120R, 122B or 125 also qualify to enroll in Math 163. 

Comments: Not a prerequisite for any math or lab science (CHEM, MBC, PHYS) courses.  Students in nursing, nutritional sciences should take this instead of Math 263. Recommended as a second semester course.

Math 163 is not a prerequisite any other Math course except for students in the College of Education. 

 

6.12. Math 263- Intro to Statistics and BioStatistics

MATH 263- Introduction to Statistics and BioStatistics (3 credits)

Description: Organizing data; distributions, measures of center and spread, scatterplots, nonlinear models and transformations, correlation, regression. Design of experiments: models from probability, discrete and continuous random variables, normal distributions, sampling distributions, the central limit theorem. Statistical inference; confidence intervals and test of significance, t procedures, inference for count data, two-way tables and chi-square procedures, inference for regression, analysis of variance.

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 60-100% , SAT I MSS 640-800, ACT MATH 26-36, or U of A Math 112, 120R, 122B, or 125 required for placement into this course.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level:  Math 100, then Math 112, although students should first complete their foundation math requirement before taking Math 263.  Students who taken U of A  Math 108, 112, 113, 116, 119A, 120R, 122B or 125 also qualify to enroll in Math 263.  Transfer credit must be less than 2 years old. 

Comments: Math 263 is not a prerequisite to other math courses.  This course is a more thorough treatment of statistics for majors in the College of Science, Physiology, and a few other majors. Recommended as a second semester course or later, after foundation math requirement has been completed.   

 

6.13. Math 122A- Math 122A+122B is our Recommended Calculus Sequence

MATH 122A –Functions for Calculus (1 unit) 

Description: Elementary functions, their properties, and uses in modeling. This is a 3.5 week course where students will work with applying prerequisite concepts to the standard transcendental functions, pulling them into the mechanics, approach, and conceptual understanding of what is required for Calculus. A graphing calculator is required for this course. 

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 75-100% ,  SAT I MSS 660-800, ACT MATH 28-36 , or U of A Math 120R (grade of C or higher) required.  Test scores expire after two years. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only. Students cannot place into this course through the Math 100 final. 

If my scores are lower than the Placement Level:  Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R (grade of C or higher), then Math 122A.  Transfer prerequisites must be less than 2 years old to place a student into Math 122A. 

Comments: Enroll in both Math 122A and 122B prior to the start of the semester.  Students must complete this course with a grade of C or higher to continue on to Math 122B.  Students who do not successfully complete Math 122A with a C or higher after the first 3.5 weeks enrolled in Math 122A will be administratively switched to Math 120R.

 

6.14. Math 122B-Taken along with Math 122A

MATH 122B – First-Semester Calculus (4 units) 

Description: An introduction to first-semester calculus for engineering, science and math students, from rates of change to integration, with an emphasis on understanding, problem solving, and modeling. Topics covered include key concepts of derivative and definite integral, techniques of differentiation, and applications, using algebraic and transcendental functions. Examinations are proctored. Except as per University policy on repeating a course, credit will not be given for this course if the student has credit in a higher level math course. Such students may be dropped from the course. 

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in Math 122A 

If I did not take Math 122A or placed below Math 122A:   Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R (grade of C or higher) , Math 122A (grade of C or higher) , then Math 122B.

Comments: Enroll in both Math 122A and 122B prior to the start of the semester. This course begins during the 4th week of classes.  Math 122B gives students a solid foundation needed to continue on to other courses such as Math 129. Any colleges listing Math 125 as their math requirement will accept Math 122B.

6.15. Math 125- Accelerated Calculus for Students Who have Experience with Calculus.

MATH 125 - Calculus I (3 units)

Description: An accelerated version of Math 122B. See description of Math 122B.

Placement Level: ALEKS PPL score of 92-100% , SAT I MSS 730-800, ACT MATH 32-36 or AP Calculus credit required. Test scores expire after one year. SAT/ACT placement is generally for first year students only.  

Comments: Placement for this course is at a higher level than Math 122A/B due to its accelerated format. Any major indicating Math 125 as its math requirement will accept Math 122B. This course uses the same text and syllabus as Math 122B. This course is for independent and highly motivated students. More work is done by the student outside of class than in Math 122A/B. This course is intended for students who have had prior experience with calculus. Math 122A/B is the recommended sequence for first semester calculus students.

 

6.16. Math 129- Calc II

MATH 129 -- Calculus II (3 units)

Description: Continuation of MATH 122B or MATH 125. Techniques of symbolic and numerical integration, applications of the definite integral to geometry, physics, economics, and probability; differential equations from a numerical, graphical, and algebraic point of view; modeling using differential equations, approximations by Taylor series.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in Math 122B or Math 125 or AP AB score of 3 or higher or AP BC score of 3.
Some students take Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R (grade of C or higher) , Math 122A (grade of C or higher) , Math 122B (grade of C or higher) , then Math 129.

Are you ready for Math 129: Go to the Math 122B or 125 final exam study guide  https://calculus.math.arizona.edu/calc1/math125 to review before classes begin and to help you decide if you are ready.

 

6.17. Math 223- Vector Calc (Calc III)

MATH 223 -- Vector Calculus (4 units)

Description: The course covers differential and integral calculus of functions of several variables. Topics include vector valued and scalar functions, partial derivatives, directional derivatives, chain rule, local optimization, double and triple integrals, the line integral, Green's theorem, Stokes' theorem and the Divergence theorem. Examinations are proctored.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in Math 129, or AP BC score of 4 or 5.
Some students take Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R (grade of C or higher) , Math 122A (grade of C or higher) , Math 122B (grade of C or higher) , Math 129 (grade of C or higher) , then Math 223.

Are you ready for Math 223: Go to the Math 129 final exam study guide https://calculus.math.arizona.edu/calc1/math129 to review before classes begin and to help you decide if you are ready.

 

6.18. Math 254-Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations

MATH 254 -- Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations (3 units)

Description: Solution methods for ordinary differential equations, qualitative techniques; includes matrix methods approach to systems of linear equations and series solutions.

Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in Math 129 or AP BC score of 4 or 5.

Some students take Math 100, then Math 112, then Math 120R (grade of C or higher) , Math 122A (grade of C or higher) , Math 122B (grade of C or higher) , Math 129 (grade of C or higher) , then Math 254.

Are you ready for Math 254: Go to the Math 129 final exam study guide https://calculus.math.arizona.edu/calc1/math129 to review before classes begin and to help you decide if you are ready.

 

6.19. Phil 110 - For Majors in Fine Arts, Humanities, some SBS, and other selected majors

Phil 110 - Logic and Critical Thinking (3 credits)

Description: Students will develop rational thinking skills through a combination of theory and practice. They will discuss good and bad thinking habits, learning to apply the former and to avoid the latter. This class includes an introduction to truth-tables and rules of inference in symbolic logic. The aim is to improve students' capacity for rational reasoning, question widely held beliefs, resist empty rhetoric and propaganda, distinguish relevant from irrelevant considerations, and construct sound arguments. PHIL 110 satisfies the math requirement for some majors.

Placement Level: No placement level or score required. 

Comments: Can only be used for certain majors. If a student places into Math 100 and their major requires only a General Strand Math, they should take this or Ling 123. This course is not a prerequisite to any U of A Math course.

Majors that allow LING 123 or PHIL 110 include: All majors in the Collge of Fine Arts and  Humanities, African Studies, American Indian Studies, Anthropology BA, Applied Humanities, Ariabic, Classics, Creative Writing, East Asian Studies, English, Environmental Studies, Gender and Women's Studies, General Studies, Geography BA, Global Studies, History,   Information Science and eSociety, Journalism, Judaic Studies, Latin American Studies, Linguistics, Literacy, Learning, Leadership, Mexican American Studies,  Middle Eastern and North African Stidies, Near Eastern Studies, Philosophy, Philosophy Politics and Law, Deaf Studies, Professional and Technical Writing, Rehabilitation Studies and Services, Studies of Global Media.

Most majors in the College of Applied Science and Technology can also take PHIL 110/LING 123 except Government and Public Service. 

If you are not sure if your major will allow PHIL 110 or LING 123 to satisfy the foundation math requirement for your major, please consult your academic advisor. 

 

6.20. Ling 123 - For Majors in Fine Arts, Humanities, some SBS and other selected majors

Ling 123 - Introduction to Mathematical Approaches to Language (3 credits)

Description: This introductory course will work through concepts like set theory, basic logic, and formal language theory from the ground up to help explore and understand differences like these, which occur in our language (and any other) every day. The notions we will use are very rich and powerful, but are really intuitive and easy to work with. The course is an excellent opportunity to explore powerful tools that have mathematical power and precision (but with virtually no numbers!) to model accessible and intriguing data in the language domain. LING 123 satisfies the math requirement for some majors.

Placement Level: No placement level or score required. 

Comments: Can only be used for  certain majors with a General Strand Math foundation requirement. If a student places into Math 100 and their major requires only a General Strand Math, they should take this or Phil 110.This course is not a prerequisite to any U of A Math course. 

Majors that allow LING 123 or PHIL 110 include: All majors in the Collge of Fine Arts and  Humanities, African Studies, American Indian Studies, Anthropology BA, Applied Humanities, Ariabic, Classics, Creative Writing, East Asian Studies, English, Environmental Studies, Gender and Women's Studies, General Studies, Geography BA, Global Studies, History,   Information Science and eSociety, Journalism, Judaic Studies, Latin American Studies, Linguistics, Literacy, Learning, Leadership, Mexican American Studies,  Middle Eastern and North African Stidies, Near Eastern Studies, Philosophy, Philosophy Politics and Law, Deaf Studies, Professional and Technical Writing, Rehabilitation Studies and Services, Studies of Global Media.

Most majors in the College of Applied Science and Technology can also take PHIL 110/LING 123 except Government and Public Service. 

If you are not sure if your major will allow PHIL 110 or LING 123 to satisfy the foundation math requirement for your major, please consult your academic advisor. 

 

6.21. SBS 200 - Statistics for the Social Sciences

SBS 200 - Introduction to Statistics for the Social Sciences (4 credits)

Description: An introductory course in the fundamentals of modern statistics with applications and examples in the social and behavioral sciences. Topics include: methods for describing and summarizing data, probability, random sampling, estimating population parameters, significance tests, contingency tables, simple linear regression, and correlation

Placement Level: This course does not have any prerequisites or math placement score requirements. 

 

6.22. Other Math Courses

You can find some additional Math course information in the table below, or through the following links:

• Math Placement Overview
• Math Placement Chart with Scores and Prerequisites
• Some Math course webpages
• University Catalog
• Schedule of Classes