Which Math or Stats Course Should I Take ?

STA 108: Elementary Introduction to Probability and Statistics helps you navigate today’s data-driven world. The course covers the basics of collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to make informed decisions.

Take STA 108 if you want to:

• Evaluate the validity of surveys, polls, or studies.
• Learn why the mean isn’t always the most reliable measure.
• Understand how to read data, make predictions, and draw conclusions.

MAT 112: Contemporary Topics in Mathematics explores basic mathematics, from ancient Greek discoveries to modern applications, with a focus on practical uses today.

Following Kronecker’s idea that integers are the foundation of math, the course covers mathematical concepts built on them, with real-world applications, including public key cryptography.

Take MAT 112 if you:

• Want to understand that public key cryptography is based on math, not magic.
• Have basic knowledge of addition, subtraction, and multiplication.
• Struggle with algebra.
• Want to discover surprising applications of math and explore various mathematical fields.
• Are curious about how your computer establishes secure connections to websites.

For a better understanding of the course, explore the interactive MAT 112 notes.

MAT 118: Algebra with Business Applications introduces algebra with a focus on techniques and applications relevant to business. It also prepares students for MAT 120: Calculus with Business Applications, but is not for those planning to take MAT 196: Calculus A.

Take MAT 118 if you:

• Want to learn practical algebra applications for personal or professional use.
• Are considering a business major (MAT 118 is a prerequisite for MAT 120).
• Want hands-on experience with real-world case studies and quantitative decision-making.

MAT 120: Calculus with Business Applications covers essential math concepts like functions, limits, and derivatives, focusing on business and social science applications. It’s a terminal course and not a prep for MAT 296: Calculus B.

Take MAT 120 if:

• Your program requires it.
• You liked algebra and want a brief introduction to differential calculus.
• You are interested in how math applies to business and economics.

If you have the required background, take the MAT 120 Placement Test to determine if you need MAT 118 before enrolling in MAT 120

Mathematics for Life Sciences
These courses are designed for biology majors and are more suitable than MAT 190 Precalculus for most biology students.

MAT 183: Mathematics for Life Sciences covers basic math topics with a focus on biology applications, including quantities, units, algebra, linear and nonlinear equations, graphs, functions, and basic trigonometry.

Take MAT 183 if you:

• Are a biology major (BA or BS) without transfer credit for MAT 190 Precalculus.

MAT 184: Calculus for Life Sciences introduces calculus applications in the life sciences and offers computational training for advanced biological studies.

Take MAT 184 if you:

• Are a biology major (BS).

MAT 196 Calculus A, MAT 296 Calculus B, and MAT 396 Calculus C form the core of our calculus sequence. MAT 190 Precalculus prepares you for MAT 196, and MAT 181 Foundations of Calculus can be taken alongside MAT 196.

Take Calculus if you:

• Program requires it.
• Need it for graduate or professional school.
• Want to enhance your degree with a Math or Statistics Minor.
• Enjoy mathematics.

All students planning to take Calculus should take the Calculus Diagnostic Test to determine the best path for them.