The faculty Workgroup on Mathematics (Area C) Preparation, convened by UC’s Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools (BOARS) in fall 2023, has concluded their work and issued their Stage 2 report. The report focuses on which mathematical coursework is most appropriate and necessary to prepare students for success at UC, including courses recommended as the fourth year of math.
The Stage 2 conclusions are as follows:
- There are no changes to the Area C requirement. UC will continue to require the three lower-level (i.e., foundational) math courses covering the topics found in elementary algebra, geometry and advanced algebra (typically Algebra I-Geometry-Algebra II or Math I-II-III) as the best preparation for a diverse range of interests. This sequence allows maximum flexibility for students to explore various majors in their postsecondary studies, including STEM, social science and humanities majors. Nearly all California applicants to UC already meet this minimum requirement.
- UC recommends a fourth year of math that substantially builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the foundational sequence. Such courses should be appropriate for 12th-grade students who have already completed the lower-level coursework.
- Area C courses will fall under one of the following four categories: