Initial Placement
First-Year Math Program—Initial Math Placement
The Department of Mathematical Sciences makes all initial math placements based on a student's ACT or SAT score. We have found that these scores are a reliable indicator of a student's math skill level. First-year students should plan their entry-level math course based on the following department recommendations.
| ACT Math Score | SAT Math Score | Courses/Credits |
|---|---|---|
| below 19 | below 500 | MA1030 College Algebra 1 (3 cr.) |
| 19–25 | 500–590 | MA1032 Data, Functions, and Graphs Plus (4 cr.) |
| 26–28 | 600–640 | MA1135 Calculus for Life Sciences (4 cr.) —or— MA1161 Calculus Plus with Technology I (5 cr.) |
| 29 and above | 650 and above | MA1135 Calculus for Life Sciences (4 cr.) —or— MA1160 Calculus with Technology I (4 cr.) |
What are the exceptions?
We realize that some students feel that they have not been placed into the correct course. Your initial math placement might be changed when you
- Challenge your math placement,
- Use your College Board AP test score, or
- Transfer math credits from another university.
What if I don't have an ACT or SAT score?
If you have not submitted an ACT or SAT score to Michigan Tech, you should take the online placement test during the spring testing window. Do not wait until you come to campus to determine your math placement.
Does my major department have different requirements?
In some departments, math course placement determines a student's first semester schedule. Others offer guidelines when you have more than one option for fulfilling degree requirements. Please contact the advisor in your major department for specific course-selection recommendations.
