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CHEM 1, CSE 5, MATH 5, WRI 1 (preparatory classes)

Do I need to take a preparatory class?

Many first years need to take a preparatory course in one or more subjects before moving on to the next higher course required in that subject in their major or degree.

 

*IMPORTANT CHANGE* for MATH classes starting Fall 2024:

Starting with Fall 2024 classes, you cannot register for any introductory math class at UC Merced unless you have a qualifying math placement exam score.

Take the UC Merced math placement exam if you plan or might need to take MATH 005, 008, 011, or 021.

 

UC Merced offers four preparatory classes:

  • Chemistry:  CHEM 001, Preparatory Chemistry (3 units)
  • Computer Science & Engineering:  CSE 005, Introduction to Computer Applications (4 units)
  • Mathematics:  MATH 005, Preparatory Calculus (4 units)
  • Writing:  WRI 001, Academic Writing (4 units)

 

What is the next course after the preparatory class?

  • CHEM 001 is a prerequisite for CHEM 002 (General Chemistry I).
    • CHEM 002 is required in most science and engineering majors.
      • CHEM 002 is not required in the Computer Science & Engineering (CSE) major.
    • CHEM 002 is required for most pre-health career paths (e.g., pre-med, pre-dentistry, pre-nursing, pre-vet med)

 

  • CSE 005 is a prerequisite for CSE 022 (Introduction to Programming).
    • CSE 022 is required in the CSE major and the Applied Math--Computer Science emphasis major.

 

  • MATH 005 is a prerequisite for MATH 011 (Calculus I), MATH 021 (Calculus I for Physical Sciences and Engineering) and some statistics classes.
    • MATH 011 is required in majors that include Biological Sciences (BIO), Cognitive Science B.S. (COGS), Economics (ECON), Management & Business Economics (MBE), and others.
    • MATH 021 is required in most engineering, math, and physical science majors.
    • Some statistics classes, including PSY 010 (Analysis of Psychological Data), require MATH 005 as a prerequisite.

 

 

How can I avoid taking a preparatory class?

  • Complete the UC Merced placement exam in CHEM, CSE, MATH, or WRI before the deadline and earn a qualifying score to place in a higher class    OR

 

 

 

  • Send an official transcript from another college to UC Merced of college courses completed with a C grade or higher during high school.
    • The course from the other college must be the exact equivalent of the preparatory class or a more advanced class at UC Merced.
      • Use ASSIST to see how California community college courses transfer to UC Merced.
        • Examples:
          • Same class:  You would not need to take MATH 005 if you completed the MATH 005 equivalent at a California community college during high school, earned a C or higher, and sent the final official college transcript to UC Merced.
          • More advanced class:  You would also not need to take MATH 005 if you completed the MATH 021 equivalent at a California community college, earned a C or higher, and sent the final official college transcript to UC Merced.