Which OCCC general education math class is best for you?

The OCCC math department currently offers four classes that satisfy the college’s general education requirement: College Algebra, Precalculus, Contemporary Math, and Introduction to Statistics. Each of these courses was developed to satisfy particular needs. To decide which one is best for you, compare each class’s design to the needs of your degree program.

Math 1503 – Contemporary Mathematics

Prerequisite: (R) (W), MATH 0403 or adequate Math Placement Test Score, either within the last year.

3 CREDITS A study of the mathematics needed for critical evaluation of quantitative information and arguments (including logic, critical appraisal of graphs and tables); use of simple mathematical models, and an introduction to elementary statistics.

This course is meant for students who plan to enter degree fields that will require little (if any) formal mathematics. It is a survey of the modern use of mathematics. It is often taught through hands-on projects.

Example degrees: English

Performing and Visual Arts

History

Math 2013 – Introduction to Statistics

Prerequisite: (R), MATH 0403 or equivalent or adequate Math Placement Test Score, either within the last year.

3 CREDITS The student will solve problems applying the concepts of random sampling, elementary probability, testing hypotheses, descriptive measures, chi-square, regression andcorrelation, and analysis of variance.

This course is a survey of the use of statistical methods in the modern world. It is best for students entering fields where the main mathematical techniques used are statistics and/or probability.

Example degrees: Psychology

Journalism

Political Science

Important: Whichever course you choose, check that it will transfer to the four-year school of your choice. For the Oklahoma Regents Transfer Grid, go to:

If you plan on transferring to OU, OSU, OCU, UCO,ECU, or the University of Arkansas, go to:

For other schools, look on their websites.

Math 1513 – College Algebra

Prerequisite: (R), MATH 0403 or adequate Math Placement Test Score, either within the last year.

3 CREDITS The student will demonstrate an understanding of the general concepts of relation and function and specifically of polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions; the ability to solve systems of equations by utilizing matrices and determinants; and the ability to solve practical problems using algebra.

This course was designed to prepare students for a degree in fields that require some mathematical knowledge beyond that usually taught in the developmental math sequence, but does not require any of the engineering calculus sequence (Math 2014, Math 2214, Math 2314). It is a preparatory class for Calculus for Business, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences (Math 1743), as well as many science courses.

Example degrees: Business

Biology

Chemistry

Math 1533– Precalculus and Analytic Geometry

Prerequisite: (R) (W), MATH 0403, or adequate Math Placement Test Score, either within the last year.

3 CREDITS This course is intended to serve students for whom Calculus and Analytic Geometry I is a requirement. Topics will include conic sections, systems of equations (both linear and nonlinear), and a general discussion of functions with emphasis on polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

This course was designed to prepare students for success in the engineering calculus sequence (Math 2014, Math 2214, Math 2314).

Example degrees: Math

Engineering

Physics