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Quantitative Literacy

Quantitative Literacy represents the ability to understand and effectively communicate in the language of numerical data, patterns, and structures. Whether in the form of election polls, weather forecasting, projections of economic growth, or trends in household income, a large proportion of the information that we receive every day has an underlying quantitative nature. To distinguish between solid facts and fake news, fluency in this language is required. One needs to understand its rules, its uses, and the logic behind it as well as possess the ability to recognize inappropriate or flawed uses. The Quantitative Literacy requirement provides students with the tools necessary to achieve this objective, in a way that is compatible with their field of interest. Students who successfully fulfill this requirement will be able to demonstrate that they possess the numerical and mathematical skills needed to develop solid ideas and reach valid conclusions.

Students fulfill the Quantitative Literacy requirement by successfully completing two mathematics courses (6 credits):

One of the following*:

MAT 103College Algebra

3
MAT 104Mathematics of Inequality

3
MAT 107Ideas in Mathematics

3
MAT 109Introduction to Game Theory

3
MAT 115TMeasuring the Alps

3

Plus one of the following:

MAT 180Mathematics for the Humanities and Social Sciences

3
MAT 200Calculus

3
MAT 201Introduction to Statistics

3

Notes:

  1. Students pursuing a major that requires MAT 201 and/or MAT 200 must still successfully complete these courses (with any associated prerequisites)
  2. If the results of the math placement test indicate a student should take MAT 100, this must be taken prior to enrolling in any other math course. MAT 100 does not fulfill the Quantitative Literacy requirement.
  3. If the results of the math-placement test indicate a student is prepared for 200-level math courses, or if a student has transfer credit for MAT 103, then MAT 103, MAT 104, MAT 107, MAT 109, or MAT 115T are not required. In such cases the Quantitative Literacy requirements can be fulfilled with one of the following, MAT 180, MAT 200, or MAT 201.
  4. If a student enrolls at FUS with transfer credit for MAT 200 and/or MAT 201, they will need to take at least one quantitative course at FUS to fulfill the Quantitative Literacy requirements