Math & Computer Science
Mathematics & Computer Science Department: For Current Students: Placement Information
Mathematics Placement Information
Social and Natural Science Majors
Most Social and Natural Science majors are required to take Statistics (MAT52-113) and/or Calculus I (MAT52-154). It is extremely important to consult with your advisor before choosing your mathematics course.
Non-Science Majors
We recommend that non-Science majors take Mathematical Concepts (MAT52-103), Statistics (MAT52-113), Calculus I (MAT52-154) and/or Computer Science I (CSC54-183). Although Elementary Function Theory (MAT52-123) is an option, it is primarily a course designed for EC-6 and 4-8 certification education majors for which it is a requirement and also designed to prepare students with a weak background for Calculus I.
Calculus I or Elementary Function Theory?
Students who wish to take Calculus I (MAT52-154) must have acquired mastery of high school level pre-calculus. This includes high school algebra, trigonometry, and exponential and logarithmic functions. For practice and self-assessment, we recommend the following website: http://www.math.unt.edu/mathlab/emathlab/Calculus.htm At Southwestern, we do not deny any student who wishes to take Calculus I, regardless of previous experience. However, due to the high-paced, intensive, cummulative nature of the course, any student with weaknesses in any aspect of pre-calculus will struggle, since these skills will be used almost daily. It may be advisable for unprepared students to first take Elementary Function Theory before attempting to take Calculus I.
Calculus I or Calculus II?
Students who wish to take Calculus II (MAT52-254) must have a minimum of C- in Calculus I (MAT52-154) or equivalent. Transfer credit for Calculus I allows entry into Calculus II without consultation. For AP credit, see below.
Exam Placement
An AP score of 4 or 5 on the Calculus AB exam yields credit for Calculus I. An AP score of 4 or 5 on the Calculus BC exam yields credit for Calculus I and Calculus II. Those with AP scores of 3 should consult with a Calculus instructor to aid their placement.
Computer Science Placement Information
Intro to Programming or Computer Science I?It is advisable though not necessary for students with no background or a weak background in computer science to take Intro to Programming (CSC54-143) before taking Computer Science I (CSC54-183).
Exam Placement
The Computer Science A exam yields credit for Computer Science I; the B exam yields credit for both Computer Science I and II.
