College Algebra is a very popular math option with dual enrollment programs, but parents see the word “Algebra” and think it might be the same as high school algebra. Well, it is, but it also isn’t. So, how much high school algebra does your student really need to finish before taking College Algebra?
Path 1: High School Algebra 1 → High School Algebra 2 → College Algebra
Path 2: High School Algebra 1 → College Algebra
I write a lot about the intersection of high school and college math because I’ve gone through the same dilemma with two of my four sons. In both cases, they started dual enrollment before finishing Algebra 2. So as a math sequence, they weren’t far enough to be ready for the jump.
college courses generate a permanent college record, when in doubt, wait it out until you’re sure they are ready for the course.
With my first example (son number 2) he struggled considerably learning math. We repeated Pre-Algebra so many years in a row that he had 90 college credits of his business degree when he graduated high school, but still wasn’t finished with Algebra 2. He kept at it, and he took his required math courses during college and finished his bachelor’s degree. In the HS4CC community, this sounds crazy- but remember that most people don’t do college classes until they go to college, so saving classes for college is ok! Especially if doing so allows you to keep strengthening essential skills.
Several years ago, my other son (number 4) was working on a welding degree at our local community college. He finished his entire welding degree and extra welding courses by the end of 11th grade. His advisor kept trying to schedule his general education, but I saved those until 12th grade. I knew he wasn’t ready, and I wanted to keep homeschooling until he could be successful. For 12th grade, he took all his general education courses (including math) and finished his high school diploma and welding degree at the same time. Parents make the best guidance counselors!
In contrast, my other two sons learned math easily and quickly. My oldest learned all algebra (1, 2 and College) in 1 school year. He easily flew into Calculus. We hear “every kid is different” but do we really believe that?
We Need College Algebra
For teens who need College Algebra for their degree, finishing high school Algebra 2 first is the best plan. While some quick learners can jump from Algebra 1 “over” Algebra 2, and onto College Algebra, they are not following the math sequence recommendation given by the college when they do that. Remember college classes last 1 semester, not 1 year, so skipping Algebra 2 requires your student to learn a year of Algebra 2 AND a new course (College Algebra) in half a school year. This won’t work for everyone.
Wait, We Need College Algebra?
Maybe not! If your student has finished Algebra 2 and is planning a STEM major in college, College Algebra is an added class that may be unnecessary. If your student’s degree requirements begin with Calculus 1 (likely) the following math sequence at the bottom of this page below can be followed. Since College Algebra is more accurately called “Algebra 3 with Precal” you can see that going directly into Precalculus wil probably serve your student much better.
Help Me Choose
Path 1: High School Algebra 1 → High School Algebra 2 → College Algebra
Path 2: High School Algebra 1 → College Algebra
For the pace and speed of the learner:
- I prefer a slower, more structured progression through topics. → Path 1
- I prefer moving ahead quickly and enjoy a challenge. → Path 2
With respect to earning college credit in math during high school:
- The highest / last math I need for my degree is College Algebra → Path 1
- This allows you to accumulate 3 high school credits in math and frees up space for other courses needed for high school or college credit.
- I need to take Precalculus or higher for my degree → Path 2
- With the caveat that you need College Algebra as a bridge to Precalculus. If you’re very strong in math, you can skip College Algebra entirely and enroll directly in College-level Precalculus.
I like this article and I’m trying to understand what you’re saying, but the 2nd sentence under We Need College Algebra! seems to not be a complete sentence? I’m trying to parse out what you mean.
” We Need College Algebra. For teens who need College Algebra for their degree, finishing high school Algebra 2 first is the best plan.”
This means your student should finish high school Algebra 2 if they will need College Algebra in their college degree. Not all students do, but if yours does, then have them complete Algebra 2 first. Does that help?
Thank you for replying: this is the sentence that I am struggling with.
While some quick learners can jump from Algebra 1 over Algebra 2, and on to College Algebra are not following the math recommendations given by colleges.
Thank you, I see now what happened. “they” was left out of the sentence, which is a typo on my part. I’ve edited for clarity, but separately from that, were you able to find the best path for your teen?