What Are the Math Requirements for College Graduation?

So, you're preparing to enroll in college, but maybe mathematics isn't your strongest subject.

The thought of taking college-level math courses may feel overwhelming if you barely passed your high school math classes.

College math requirements vary widely depending on your school and degree program.

At a minimum, some math is usually required as part of your general education courses, but this isn't always the case.

Keep reading to learn more about the math requirements to graduate college.

What Are the Math Requirements to Graduate From College?

When you were in high school, you likely had to complete at least three to four math to graduate.

These requirements are determined by your state and apply to all accredited secondary schools.

However, once you get to college, the requirements are not quite as straightforward.

That's because math and other course requirements are determined by the school instead of the state.

All college-level degree programs consist of general education courses, core courses, and electives.

However, the exact classes required may vary from school to school.

For example, Harvard University requires 12 general education courses, three of which must be in STEM-related subjects.

Meanwhile, Stanford University's requirements focus more heavily on arts, humanities, language, and writing.

Generally speaking, students at most schools will be required to complete a college algebra course (or similar) in the first couple of years, when they are completing their general education credits.

Again, though, each school sets its standards.

Some schools may require additional math courses, while others may require no math courses for students enrolled in certain degree programs.

Aside from your school, your chosen major may determine the number of math courses you have to take.

Some degrees, such as computer science, engineering, and finance will require a greater number of math courses.

If you're concerned about being able to handle the math requirements in college, check out the core courses at the schools you are considering to find out what their specific requirements are.

Additionally, you'll want to find out about the required courses of any degree program you are considering.

Do You Have to Take Math Classes in College?

As noted in the section above, most schools require students to complete at least one basic math course in college.

Some schools and programs require more than that.

Interestingly, though, many schools do not require students to take any math classes if they are enrolled in certain degree programs.

Strong math skills are not a major requirement for many fields and career paths; as such, some schools don't require students to take general education or core math courses, effectively allowing them to complete a degree without having to study math.

There are quite a few degree programs you may be able to complete without ever taking a math course.

Some of these programs include:

• Communications
• Musical Arts
• Sociology
• Library Studies
• Cultural Studies

Remember, though: different schools have different requirements. Just because you enroll in one of these degree programs doesn't mean you'll never have to take another math course.

Always check the course requirements at your school before assuming that you won't have to take any math courses.

Talking with an academic advisor or looking at the school's list of required courses online will help you discover the specific prerequisites for graduating from your chosen school.

What Are Some Common Math Courses You May Have to Take in College?

If your school requires you to complete some math courses to graduate, there are a few common courses you can expect to take.

Common college math courses include:

• Business Math
• Algebra
• Calculus

Depending on your major, additional math courses may be required.

For example, many computer science degree programs require students to complete several calculus classes and other advanced math courses.

Some of the more advanced courses you may need to take for certain degree programs include:

• Linear Equations
• Statistics and Probability
• Discrete Structures
• Differential Equations
• Advanced Algebra

If math isn't a good subject for you, it might be a good idea to steer clear of as many of these math courses as possible.

On the other hand, many schools provide academic resources to help struggling students.

If you're having trouble meeting the math requirements, it might be a good idea to explore what resources are available to you at your school.

Why Are College Math Classes Important?

If your school has math requirements, there is probably a good reason for those requirements.

Though many students struggle with math, it can help them develop or strengthen skills that will serve them well in their personal and professional lives.

Some of these skills include:

• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Financial literacy

So, as you work your way through challenging required math courses in college, don't give up.

Understand that the math classes are helping to build character and broaden your skill set.

Fulfill Math Requirements to Graduate College Today

Most colleges and universities require students to complete at least a basic college algebra course; however, requirements vary by school and degree program.

Find out the math requirements at your school of choice so you can start working toward your degree today.