Rock Valley College
Rockford, Illinois

Math Advising


It is best to talk to an RVC counselor who can advise you about what math classes you should take for your specific program of study or intended transfer school.

Who is MTH 096A (Mathematical Literacy for College Students) for?

If you know the only college-level math class you will need to take is MTH 115 (General Education Mathematics) or MTH 220 (Statistics), consider taking MTH 096A. MTH 096A is a 6-hour course focused on problem solving in real-world contexts. By taking MTH 096A you can satisfy the algebra and geometry prerequisites for MTH 115 and MTH 220 in one semester. The prerequisite for the course is grades of C or higher in MTH 088 & 089 or a sufficiently high placement test score.

Who can take MTH 096S (Combined Beginning and Intermediate Algebra)?

MTH 096S is a fast paced 6-hour course that covers all the content of both Beginning Algebra (MTH 091-092) and Intermediate Algebra (MTH 093-094) in one semester. Students who scored a 45 or higher on the RVC Placement Test (ACCUPLACER) Elementary Algebra Test or earned A's in both MTH 088 & 089 are eligible to enroll in MTH 096S.

If you take MTH 097 (Geometry), when should you take it?

Once you've earned a "C" or higher in beginning algebra, you may enroll in MTH 097. You have the option of taking MTH 097 before, in the same semester as, or after taking intermediate algebra. (Unless mathematics is a fairly easy subject for you, it is not recommended that you take both geometry and intermediate algebra in the same semester.)  If you will eventually be taking MTH 100, MTH 120 or MTH 132, it is best to take intermediate algebra in the semester right before taking those math courses.  

NOTE:  You may not have to take MTH 097 if you qualify for a MTH 097 Waiver or pass the RVC Geometry Competency Test--see Geometry Options

What should you take after completing geometry  and intermediate algebra?

Once you have satisfactorily completed geometry and intermediate algebra, there are a variety of college-level math courses that you can choose from at Rock Valley College. The class you should choose depends on your intended major.

See suggested math courses for various majors

Are you planning to get an AA or AS degree at RVC?

Then you'll need to take at least one of the following IAI-approved math courses: MTH 115, MTH 135, MTH 160, MTH 211, MTH 217, MTH 220, MTH 235, and MTH 236.


Who should take MTH 120 (College Algebra)?

MTH 120 is primarily intended for students who need it as a prerequisite for another math course such as MTH 125, MTH 135, MTH 160, and MTH 211.

Who is MTH 132 (Precalculus) recommended for?

MTH 132 is 5-hour course that is intended for students preparing for MTH 135 (Calculus I). It covers the content of both College Algebra (MTH 120) and Trigonometry (MTH 125).  Because MTH 132 covers the topics at a more rapid pace than those individual courses, it is recommended that students have earned an "A" or "B" in intermediate algebra (MTH 093 & 094 or MTH 096S) before enrolling in MTH 132. Also, if you recently took the equivalent of college algebra and trigonometry in high school and want a "refresher" before enrolling in calculus, MTH 132 would be a good option for you.