Mathematics majors typically take the following courses in the fall semester of their first year:
First-Year Experience Learning Community Courses
We will register you in these courses.
- Philosophy (PHIL 201)
- English Composition (ENG 101) OR Theology (TRS 201)
Why am I taking these classes? Honors students take equivalent honors courses.
Major and Elective Courses
You will need to choose and register for these courses.
- Analytic Geometry and Calculus I (Math 121) (depending on placement; see below)
- A foreign language (see below)
- A liberal arts foundations course; a course toward a minor, certificate, or other focus area; or a free elective
Math placement
Your major requires you to take the math placement exam to determine what math course is at the right level for you.
Language placement
Your major requires you to complete the study of a foreign language through the intermediate level. Catholic University teaches the following languages that satisfy this requirement: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Greek, Irish, Italian, Latin, and Spanish. If you are interested in learning a language not listed here, consult with your advisor.
If you have previously studied a foreign language and are interested in continuing with that same language, or if you can demonstrate fluency in a foreign language, you should complete the language placement exam.
About Your First Semester Courses
At Catholic University, mathematics is studied in a broader, liberal arts curriculum. Courses in philosophy, theology, the natural and social sciences, literature, and the humanities will sharpen your writing skills, develop your capacity for critical thought, and teach you how to begin making connections among the various kinds and fields of knowledge.
Students normally take five courses.
In addition to the two First Year Learning Community courses, you will take a calculus course. Unless you scored well on an AP calculus exam, you will need to take the calculus placement exam to determine the appropriate level course. If you do not place into MATH 121, you should take the online summer pre-calc review course, MATH 11.
You should also continue or begin your study of a foreign language.
For your fifth course, you can choose what you like. You can take a liberal arts elective or a free elective course in a subject of your interest. Or, you may wish to begin study in a secondary subject area, perhaps for a minor or certificate. We especially recommend a literature course or a course in the social or behavioral sciences. Use this course as a chance to explore new interests or deepen your knowledge in a subject you already know you like.
To learn more about the Mathematics major, consult the Mathematics Department’s website.
Know which courses you want? Get registered.