For more information about all math courses, please visit Math Courses.
Coming SPRING 2025!
MATH 135 Precalculus Algebra
What is MATH 135?
MATH 135 is Precalculus Algebra, a course intended to prepare students for the algebra
in the calculus sequence. It includes polynomials, exponentials, and logarithms, functions
including their graphs and applications. It also covers conics, sequences, series,
partial fraction decomposition, and more.
Which schools does MATH 135 transfer to?
All CSU and UC schools. See a counselor to verify specific private colleges.
Who typically* takes MATH 135?
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) majors who need to take MATH 180
Note: Please check your Assessment Questionnaire (AQ) results to determine your eligibility
for this course.
What can I do to be successful in MATH 135?
- Plan to study outside of class at least 8 hours each week, or more if it has been
a while since you have taken a math class.
- Study actively by doing practice problems, making notecards, and making study guides.
- Attend professor's student hours (office hours) and math support centers regularly.
- Form study groups with other students in class and try to explain problems as you
do them.
Where can I get help if I am struggling with MATH 135 topics?
First off, remember that you are not alone! Many students find MATH 135 challenging,
so here are the supports you have available here at Mt. SAC.
Tutoring Centers on Campus
We want to remind you that when it comes to learning math… mindset matters! Believe
in yourself and know that asking for help is strongly encouraged. In fact, data shows
that if you use the support resources on campus, you will be more successful in your
classes, so start visiting them early rather than right before a big exam.
"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein
Precalculus algebra lays a foundation for the many mathematical concepts, problems,
techniques, and applications that appear in the calculus sequence. It covers a wide
array of topics that involve computation, memorization, and critical thinking.
Math concepts frequently used in MATH 135?
- Basic arithmetic, including fractions
- Basic algebra, including simplifying expressions, factoring, and solving equations
- Rules of exponents
- Graphs of functions
- Solving systems of linear equations
Where can I brush up on math concepts frequently used in MATH 135?
- Join the MATH 135 Math Jumpstart Canvas page (Coming Fall 2025!), created by Mt. SAC
math faculty, with topic-based modules that include 5-10 minute refresher videos and
practice problems to review at your own pace.
- Enroll in a free faculty-led noncredit math prep class through AIME (Academic Instruction
for Math and English) in Mt. SAC’s School of Continuing Education.
Remember, we want you to successfully complete your math requirements as you head
toward your educational goal! If you feel that you would be better served in a different
math class, we want you to know that it might be possible to find an open math class
to switch to right now, or you can join a 12-week or 8-week class that starts late.
However, don’t wait to make this change! You need to make the switch within the first
few days of the semester to avoid a W on your transcript.
Here are the classes along the STEM path that you have access to:
- MATH 135+13A Precalculus Algebra w/ Support [6 units]
- MATH 180 Calculus I [4 units] or MATH 180+18A Calculus I w/ Support [6 units]
Note that course numbering does not indicate difficulty of course content. If you
have further questions about which course is right for you, please speak to a counselor.
Anyone can learn precalculus algebra! It is not a skill set that one is either born
with or not. YOU are capable not only of learning precalculus algebra, but also of
excelling in precalculus algebra!
For additional precalculus algebra help, please visit the Math Activities Resource Centers (MARCS) or the Academic Support and Achievement Center (ASAC).
