UMC Placement FAQ

• I did not score high enough on my SAT (ACT or Compass) to get into Math 101 so how do I know what math class to take?
• I am a freshman advisor. Where do I find advising information on SAT/ACT scores as they relate to math placement?
• The SAFARI system tells me I need a permission code to get into a math class. Where do I go or who do I call?
• What is the difference between Math 100A, B, and C?
• I have registered for a Math 100 class. Is there any way to know specifically what's expected of me so I can brush up before classes begin?
• My SAT/ACT/Compass test scores were not high enough for me to get into Math 101 but I need to take a lot of math for my major. Do I have to take Math 100B?
• My major requires Math 153, Pre-Calculus. How do I get in that class?
• I had Pre-calculus in high school. Why can't I register for it at Central?
• I am taking Math 130, Finite Math. Why won't SAFARI let me sign up for Pre-Calculus?

I did not score high enough on my SAT (ACT or Compass) to get into Math 101 so how do I know what math class to take?

To estimate the correct course placement and the SAT/ACT/Compass test scores needed to be admitted to a particular class level, a student should see the placement page. All Math 100 level classes require registration through the University Math Center (UMC). To be advised regarding placement and/or to register for a Math 100course, please see the UMC secretary in Hertz 101. Through a short discussion of past math performances and future goals, the best placement may be found for each student. For Math 100C pre-requisites and eligibility please see section on Math 100C placement.

I am a freshman advisor. Where do I find advising information on SAT/ACT scores as they relate to math placement?

The placement page should give you the needed information as well as charts to help you advise your students on their math placement. Please remember that with the exception of Math 101 and 130, all other math classes have permission numbers. For admittance to Math 100A, B, or C, see the the UMC secretary in Hertz 101. For all other math courses, see the math department secretary in Bouillon Hall room 107 or 108.

The SAFARI system tells me I need a permission code to get into a math class. Where do I go or who do I call?

Because there are three levels of Math 100 and proper placement is essential, advising from a UMC advisor is important. This is part of the reason for the permission code. Please stop by Hertz 101 for information regarding advising appointments and registration.

What is the difference between Math 100A, B, and C?

Please view the syllabi for each of these courses. In general, Math 100A is Pre-algebra, Math 100B is Introduction to Algebra, and Math 100C is Intermediate Algebra.

I have registered for a Math 100 class. Is there any way to know specifically what's expected of me so I can brush up before classes begin?

Please see the syllabi for the Math 100 classes. By reading through the documents, you should get a 'feel' for the subject matter being covered.

My SAT/ACT/Compass test scores were not high enough for me to get into Math 101 but I need to take a lot of math for my major. Do I have to take Math 100B?

Building a foundation of basic mathematic functions and algebra is your best option especially if you are going to need more than Math 101 for your major. Math 100B is a good place to start and if your scores do not qualify you for 101, that would suggest this is the appropriate level for you. If you feel you have better math skills than your test scores indicate, you are welcome to speak with a UMC advisor about placement options.

My major requires Math 153, Pre-Calculus. How do I get in that class?

The placement chart will explain the three ways to get into pre-calculus. If you have not satisfied the second two options (acceptable score on the Math Placement Test or one year of high school Calculus with a 'B' or better) then placement in Math 100C is your only option. If you satisfy the pre-requisites and eligibility for Math 100C, see the UMC secretary in Hertz 101 for admission to the course. If you do not qualify, see the UMC secretary, in Hertz 101 for advising.

I had Pre-calculus in high school. Why can't I register for it at Central?

Before enrolling a student in Pre-calculus or Calculus, the math department wants to test a student's skills before placing them in the appropriate class. This is done through the Math Placement Test. For more information on test dates and requirements, contact the Testing office at 509-963-1847 or pedersoc@cwu.edu.

I am taking Math 130, Finite Math. Why won't SAFARI let me sign up for Pre-Calculus?

The placement chart will explain the three ways to get into pre-calculus. If you have not satisfied the second two options (acceptable score on the Math Placement Test or one year of high school Calculus with a 'B' or better) then placement in Math 100C is your only option. Please see Pre-requisites and eligibility for Math 100C. Having completed Math 130 is not an avenue to eligibility for this class.