Mathematics Placement

For Incoming Students

Department of Mathematics

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Almost every degree program offered at Kutztown University requires that you take at least one college-level mathematics course.  The mathematics course(s) you take depends on which degree you wish to obtain.  Another factor to consider when choosing your mathematics class(es) is how well prepared you are to succeed in that class, since different mathematics courses require different skills and different levels of preparation. 

Your Math SAT or ACT score is not always an effective measure of your mathematical ability. Therefore the Department of Mathematics requires every incoming freshman to take a mathematics placement exam in order to better determine how well you are prepared to succeed.  Each incoming freshman will take the COMPASS test during Connections (summer orientation).  The subject areas tested include Pre-Algebra, Algebra, College Algebra, and Trigonometry. More information about the test, as well as a set of practice items, can be viewed at http://www.act.org/compass/tests/math.html.  Please review this material carefully and work through the practice items. 

Simple four-function calculators will be provided during the test.  You will not be permitted to use your own calculator.

It is very important that you take this test seriously.  How well you do on this test, along with your chosen major, will help determine which mathematics course you take first. 

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