College of Science

Calculus Placement Info

Calculus Placement

Many majors in the College of Science require MATH 150, but most students take MATH 130 first, depending on their previous math experience. If you believe that you are prepared to start in MATH 150, you can assess your readiness for Calculus using an online tool called ALEKS PPL (preparation, placement, and learning).The ALEKS Placement Assessment covers material from Basic Math through Precalculus and will take approximately 90 minutes to complete. After the assessment, a targeted Prep and Learning Module is available for you to review and learn material, and to improve placement and eventual course outcomes.

All students are strongly encouraged to spend several hours using the ALEKS Prep and Learning Module. Even if you have achieved placement in your desired course, time spent in ALEKS will better prepare you for your upcoming course and ultimately lead to better grades

Who has to take the ALEKS Placement Assessment?

All students who wish to enroll in Math 150: Calculus I without first taking Math 130: Precalculus (or similar class at another college/university).

Can I retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment?

Yes, you may take up to 5 placement assessments. However, to make each attempt worthwhile, it is important that you spend time working in your ALEKS Prep and Learning Module in between placement assessments so that you can improve your skills.

Must I work in my ALEKS Prep and Learning Module between placement assessments?

Yes, for 3 hours between each placement assessment.

Are placement assessments timed?

Yes, you have 48 hours to complete a placement assessment once it has begun.

How long will a placement assessment take to complete?

Placement assessments require approximately 90 minutes to complete, but the amount of time will vary by student. There will be a maximum of 30 questions.

May I use a calculator while using ALEKS?

ALEKS will provide an on-screen calculator if you need one to complete a particular problem. Otherwise, you may not use a calculator.

May I use any other resources during a placement assessment?

You may only use a pen or pencil, paper, and the resources provided by ALEKS. You may not receive assistance from friends, family, other websites, textbooks, or any other resource not provided by ALEKS. Using outside resources may lead to improper placement and ultimately course failure.

What is my placement result?

Your placement result is your percentage mastery on the best assessment. To place into MATH 150, you must score 76 or above.

How long do I have access to my Prep and Learning Module?

You will have six months of access from the time that you start using your Prep and Learning module.

What if I do not place into MATH 150?

You can use a Prep and Learning Module to review and learn, and you may take another placement assessment to improve your placement result.

I did not place into the MATH 150. Can I take it anyway?

No, you must achieve the minimum placement result to take the class.

What if I placed into MATH 150?

Congratulations! Contact an advisor to request a permission number to enroll in MATH 150.

Continue to use your Prep and Learning Module to improve your chances for success. The placement result above is the minimum preparation required for your course! Take advantage of the targeted review and learning features in ALEKS to get a better grade in your class.

How do I begin using ALEKS?

Contact your advisor/instructor for access to ALEKS for Placement.