General Education
Directed Self-Placement Math Tool
To select your first mathematics course at Central Washington University (CWU), you will use the Directed Self-Placement Survey. This survey will assist you in finding the math course that aligns with your major and ensures your success. You will answer questions that will guide you in choosing the most suitable course. Afterward, you'll receive information about our math courses, allowing you to make an informed decision on which course to enroll in.
Who Should Complete the Directed Self-Placement Survey?
The Directed Self-Placement Survey is intended for students who have never taken a math course at CWU or who have not passed any college or university math course. If you are uncertain about the math courses you have taken or if they were completed internationally, it is advisable to consult an advisor. Take the survey here.
How Can the Survey Help You Choose the Best Math Course?
- By selecting a math track that aligns with your proposed major and the last high school math course where you earned a grade of C or higher, the survey will present courses that may be a good fit for you.
- You will review various math courses and reflect on your ability to solve related problems. Additionally, consider how much time you are willing to dedicate to self-review.
- If you remain unsure about your choice after completing the survey, you will have the option to reach out to an advisor for assistance.
What Classes Can a Student Take After Completing This Survey?
The Directed Self-Placement allows students to choose among courses closely related to their high school coursework. Students wishing to pursue higher mathematics courses must consult with an advisor. If you have taken IB, AP, Running Start, or college courses while in high school, you should meet with an advisor to select your next CWU math course.
What Happens After I Complete This Survey?
After two business days, your choice of mathematics course will be recorded, provided you are fully admitted to the university. To ensure availability in math courses for enrollment in the next term, it is recommended to complete this survey before registration opens for the upcoming quarter. If you have any questions, please contact the math office at (509) 963-2103.
Step 1 - Information Required for the Survey:
- CWU ID
- CWU email
- Last high school mathematics course where you earned a C or higher
Step 2 - Select the Math Track That Aligns with Your Major
It is essential to choose one of the three tracks that correspond with the major(s) you are considering:
- If your major does not require a specific math course, select from the Quantitative Reasoning track.
- If you are an elementary education major, choose from the Elementary Education track. If your major requires a math course, it is likely within the Pre-Calculus and Calculus track.
- Your first math course may need to be a preparatory course (MATH 100A or MATH 100B), and this survey will help determine the best option for you.
You must select one of the three math tracks by clicking on one of the three rectangles that show up as you move over the image.
Step 3 - Describe Your Last or Highest High School Math Course with a C or Better
- Applied Algebra, Applied Math, CTE Math, Pre-Algebra
- Algebra 1, Integrated Math 1, Geometry, Integrated Math 2, Applied Geometry, CTE Math 2
- Algebra 2, Integrated Math 3, Bridge to College Math
- Precalculus, Advanced Math, Integrated Math 4, or any math beyond Algebra 2
- Calculus, but not for college credit
Step 4 - Selecting a Mathematics Course You Feel Comfortable With
Ask yourself if you need to take MATH 100A or MATH 100B to prepare for your required college-level course. Reflect on which of the listed courses (arranged by difficulty) you feel comfortable with regarding the required skills and knowledge. If you are uncertain, consult your advisor. Note that this survey does not enroll you in your chosen course, so if you change your mind, seek assistance from your advisor.
Step 5 - Confirm Your Enrollment Request
You will receive an email confirming the information you submitted and your chosen math course. If all your information is correct, your selected CWU math course will be recorded within two business days.
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