Students will have to think critically and analyze what they learn in class and in their outside reading, and present their ideas in a clear and persuasive manner. Students who plan to attend the University must take English courses in high school that require the development and practice of these skills. Mathematics Many students are unaware of the large number of fields that require preparation in mathematics beyond the three years necessary for admission to the University. Courses in calculus are included in all majors in engineering and the physical, mathematical, and life sciences, as well as in programs leading to professional degrees in fields such as medicine, dentistry, optometry, and pharmacy. Moreover, many majors in the social sciences, business, and agriculture require statistics or calculus, and sometimes both.
Most students take calculus or statistics, if required, during the freshman year.
The University strongly recommends that students take four years of mathematics in high school, including pre-calculus in the senior year. Students who are not prepared to take calculus or statistics during the freshman year will have to take one or more preparatory mathematics classes at the University. This could affect their success in other courses and delay their entire undergraduate program. The University requires two years of laboratory science in high school, but many majors require additional science courses. Programs in the biological sciences and some natural resource fields require high school biology, chemistry, and physics.