“Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.” — Albert Einstein

A basic understanding of mathematics is essential to daily life. Juggling your finances, calculating the mileage on a tank of gas, doubling a recipe or figuring your odds at the poker table depend directly on your skill with mathematics. 

Beyond the practical applications of mathematics are the skills that it promotes: problem-solving, critical observation, analysis and interpretation, logical thinking, reasoning, thoroughness and the ability to understand both concrete and abstract problems. The field of mathematics forms the basis of advanced studies in business, engineering, physical and life sciences, social sciences, computer science and even fine arts.

DCCCD’s courses in mathematics are designed to give you the foundation that you’ll need to succeed in your college studies, your career and your life. In small classes, our highly qualified professors integrate the practical study of mathematics with the ability to think critically and solve problems far beyond the classroom.

Whether you come to study mathematics for yourself, your job or as part of a transfer plan to a four-year institution, DCCCD can give you the solid foundation you will need for the future.

DCCCD Faculty: Why the Study of Mathematics Is Important

“Mathematics is incredibly useful in allowing us to explain, model and predict phenomena of our world. Besides all the practical applications, studying mathematics makes us better thinkers. There is no better way to develop logical skills than through an understanding of mathematics.” — Andrea Xeriland, Math faculty, Cedar Valley College

“Mathematics is the basic skill required in all the sciences and in business and technological fields. Students sometimes ask, ‘What will I need this for?’ I respond that I can almost certainly tell them what their job will be like if they do not learn mathematics, but I cannot tell them what it will be if they do — because the job world is without limits if they have learned the concepts and skills of mathematics. Almost everyone can be successful in mathematics classes. It takes focus, time and hard work, but it pays great dividends!” — Dr. Barbara Branum, Developmental Math faculty, Richland College

“Mathematics is important for understanding all that is about us whether it be nature, science or something as practical as our finances. We do use mathematics when we know mathematics, and it is important that we educate students to the point where they recognize this.” — Dr. Shelba Jean Morman, Math faculty, North Lake College

“I feel that education at the college level should be focused on improving the reasoning and critical thinking skills of students. Part of a teacher’s responsibility is to provide students with the background knowledge needed to solve problems, but educators should also help students build confidence in their ability to use the things that they have learned to tackle difficult ‘real-world’ problems.” — Saeid Darabadey, Developmental Math faculty, Richland College

Math and Developmental Math Courses

Check DCCCD’s catalog for a full listing of our Mathematics courses and Developmental Mathematics courses, and find out how to get started with assessment testing to help determine which math classes you are qualified to take at any of our seven colleges.

Math: Part of Our Core Curriculum

Every college graduate should be able to apply basic mathematical tools to solve real-world problems. DCCCD’s Core Curriculum of 48 credit hours requires three credit hours of a mathematical component.

Find out how you can “Get More With the Core” to build a solid academic base for your college education. Our catalog notes which Math courses can be used to fulfill the Mathematics component of the Core.

Emphasis Degree in Mathematics

If you already know you want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, you might want to consider obtaining an Associate in Sciences degree with an Emphasis in Mathematics, available at all seven DCCCD colleges. An Emphasis degree includes the Core Curriculum required in all academic degree plans, plus courses within a specific major. An academic advisor can help you determine if this degree plan is right for you. You should also contact the four-year college or university you plan to attend for information about their requirements.

Other Degree and Certificate Options

DCCCD offers nearly 350 career and technical degrees and certificates, plus 36 academic degrees. For more information, see a chart of our degree plans by location.