Choosing Courses

Choosing the First Math Course at U.C. Berkeley

Q:     WHICH MATH COURSE SHOULD I ENROLL IN?

A:     That depends on your math background and your intended major (see below). Math 16A-16B covers much of the same basic topics as Math 1A-1B, but lacks in-depth calculus and so is less rigorous and demanding. Math 10A-10B covers calculus and discrete topics that are particularly appropriate for intended life science majors. Mathematics 32, Precalculus, is designed to prepare students for Mathematics 1A or 16A. Prerequisites for Math 32 is 3 years of high school mathematics.

On a side note, Math 16A-16B are referred to as a “terminal one-year calculus sequence,” because they do not prepare you to continue in math. In order to take Math 53 or 54, you must pass Math 1A-1B (or equivalent) with a letter grade of C- or better. The Math 10 series covers the calculus in the 1 series, but at a faster pace, since it also covers combinatorics and probability.

Q:     DO I HAVE TO TAKE A PLACEMENT EXAM?

A:   Students do not need to take a placement exam to enroll in their first math courses. 

• Please note that for Math 32, you should also have received:
  
  at least a score of 560 on the SAT I: Math or
  at least a score of 570 on the SAT II: Math Level I, or
  at least a score of 520 on the SAT II: Math Level II/IIC.