What Are the JMU Math Requirements?

James Madison University (JMU) is a large public university located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

JMU is the most recommended public university in the country and has been awarded for having the seventh-best college campus in the country.

Students looking to attend this attractive institution often wonder about the JMU math requirements.

Studying math at JMU can give students strong quantitative reasoning skills and prepare them for any career imaginable.

About JMU's Math Requirements

Here is all the information you need to know about the JMU math requirements.

Entry Requirements

To be admitted into any degree program at JMU, students will need to complete one full year beyond Algebra II. The admissions department recommends the following high school math classes:

• Pre-Calculus
• Math Analysis
• Finite Mathematics
• Probability/Statistics
• Calculus
• Trigonometry

Algebra Functions, Computer Science, Consumer Mathematics, and Data Analysis do not count toward the JMU math requirements for freshmen applicants.

How JMU's Math Assessment System Works

JMU uses a math assessment system to make sure that each student is placed in math classes of an appropriate difficulty.

Taking math classes that are too easy or too difficult can lead to negative experiences. Assessments allow students to study math at a level that will be challenging but doable.

JMU utilizes the McGraw-Hill ALEKS Math Assessment tool. The ALEKS test can evaluate students' aptitudes in 314 different mathematical topics. Each test has 30 questions and usually takes around 90 minutes to complete.

Students can retake assessment tests up to three times and will have access to a review module to catch up on areas in need of improvement.

Math Requirements for Math Majors

JMU has both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) math degrees available. JMU requires completion of the following courses for all mathematics majors:

• Calculus II
• Calculus III
• Discrete Mathematics
• Computers and Numerical Algorithms
• Linear Algebra
• Elementary Differential Equations
• Advanced Calculus I
• Abstract Algebra I

Students must also select one of the following three courses:

• Introduction to Probability and Statistics
• Introduction to Applied Statistics Using R
• Introduction to Probability and Theoretical Statistics

More about JMU's Math Major

JMU's math program is a highly respected qualification that gives students a grasp of the universal language of mathematics.

All courses are taught by full-time instructors who are passionate about math education and strive to support the personal and professional development of each student.

Graduates of JMU's math program will have many career options. Common roles for math graduates include actuary, data scientist, market analyst, finance analyst, math teacher, and quantitative researcher.

Math Requirements for Other Degree Programs

Students who select a major other than mathematics will typically still have to take some math classes. Studying math is part of any comprehensive education and will allow students to thrive in the workplace.

The exact math requirements will vary for each degree but common JMU math requirements include:

• The Nature of Mathematics
• Quantitative Literacy and Reasoning
• Fundamentals of Mathematics
• Functions and Probability
• Algebra/Precalculus Gateway
• Introductory Calculus
• Elementary Statistics
• Calculus I
• Calculus II

These classes will give students the foundation to study many other topics, use software and technology, conduct research, or pursue an advanced degree.

Can I Go to JMU if I'm Not Good at Math?

Yes, students should not let the JMU math requirements frighten them from applying to the university. Each student will have different strengths and weaknesses and not every student has to excel in mathematics.

While a math-heavy degree such as mathematics or computer science may not be a wise choice for students with weak math skills, there are many degrees that require only introductory math courses.

Additionally, many students who found math difficult in high school are surprised to find it more accessible in college due to a new learning environment and expert instructors.

Is a Degree from JMU Respected?

Yes, JMU has an excellent reputation and a degree from JMU will be respected by employers and other academic institutions.

JMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Selecting an institution that is fully accredited is an important part of making sure your education is a good investment.

Students who graduate from JMU will have strong professional qualifications, positive memories, and a large professional network of JMU alumni to connect with as they begin their careers.

Find a Degree Program Today

Understanding the JMU math requirements can give you the knowledge you need to select a perfect degree. With Learn.org, you can find all the information you need to enroll in a degree program.