FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What math class(es) do I need to take?
Make sure you consult with an advisor to determine the class(es) required for your major. If you did not place directly into the class you need, you will want to plan out your path to make sure you can complete your math by the semester you wish to graduate.

The Math department has created a math pathways chart that shows the multiple pathways through our curriculum.

How will I be placed into my math class?
The PSC Math department uses multiple measures to correctly place you. This means that you can be placed with an ALEKS placement test score, SAT score, ACT score, or even via a high school GPA. For the specifics, please visit our Placement page.

My advisor says I need Geometry. What do I do?
Only two Math courses have Geometry as a pre-requisite: Pre-Calculus (Geometry strongly recommended as a pre-requisite) and Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II (Geometry required as a pre-requisite). If you received a C or better in both semesters of high school Geometry, all you need to do is bring in your high school transcript and you will have fulfilled the Geometry requirement. Otherwise you will need to complete an online Geometry module through ALEKS (note: this is not the same thing as the placement test). For more information about Geometry, please contact Lisa Hansen, ahansen@prairiestate.edu

After taking the placement test, I believe that I was incorrectly placed in a mathematics class. What can I do?
Your fee for the ALEKS placement test covers 5 attempts, plus an online learning module you can use to study.  If you
think you have been placed incorrectly, please use the learning module, then re-take the placement test.

How can I move through my required classes faster?
The Math department has recently modified their course sequence so that in most cases students can complete a college-level course within 2 semesters; please see the math pathways chart. If you do not qualify for the class you need for your major, you may qualify to take the class along with a 1-credit co-requisite class. In addition, Math 091 (Math Literacy) prepares students to take their Gen Ed Math after one semester of remediation.

For more information, please discuss this with your advisor.

The class I need to take is closed. What can I do?
You need instructor consent to enroll in a closed course. The classroom instructor is the ONLY person who can give you consent. To request consent from an instructor, you can find their contact information on our Faculty page. Otherwise you will need to find a section that is not closed.

I missed my departmental final exam. Can I make it up?
You must discuss this problem with your individual instructor. All of your instructor's classroom policies remain in effect through the final exam. Whether or not a make-up is allowed depends on your instructor's individual policies. No one can allow or administer a make-up exam without instructor consent.

Are there any math courses that I can test out of, yet still receive credit for?
For information on proficiency testing, please visit the testing center page.