How old is too old for an Algebra class

SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP · Mar 6, 2015

It depends entirely on the school. My credits were nearly 20 years old when I went back to school. Some credits they accepted (English, Algebra, Humanities, etc.). I was required to re-take Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology & Psychology because my credits were older than 5 years. Because I had taken Trig & Calculus, they rated me proficient enough in math not to have to re-take Algebra. However, this is just my school. Each institution varies in their admission & transfer criteria.

jensjo · Mar 6, 2015

Thanks for sharing. It sounds like you have no issues with Algebra or math in general. I wish I was more like that. I think my body just naturally rejects it lol. I have done accounting and chemistry courses with no trouble (granted it is not the same type of math). Throw Algebra in the mix and just puts me in a very negative mind set for some reason. It always has.

aarnigo, ADN, RN · Mar 6, 2015

Hello! I have not really experienced what you're going through, so I'm really for that. I would say automatically that if you're hesitating about it right now, then you should really retake them. You wouldn't want to go for Statistics and withdraw/drop the course in the middle of the semester (which I did for my chemistry)--it feels terrible! You also said that you hate Algebra and sort-of lacks time, so there's that to worry about.

If you ever decided to go for Statistics right away, there's always the college's learning center and tutors you can ask for help. I don't think students can get by any courses by taking it lightly. You should at least put a little effort in it.

jensjo · Mar 6, 2015

Definitely not lack of trying. I work hard in everything I do. It was very difficult for me to get a C the first time around. It worries me not because I want to work less, but because I would hate it if it lowers my GPA and it turns out I didn't need to retake it. I would gladly take an extra biology or chemistry instead. the other reason I thought I would be fine is (and I don't know this for sure) I've heard that there is not a lot of algebra in statistics. God I hope that's true.

aarnigo, ADN, RN · Mar 6, 2015

Oh no.. I'm sorry if I offended you. I think the best way to know is ask people from the math department, this way you wouldn't surprise yourself over the course. Best of luck!!

feeneishia · Mar 6, 2015

I agree with an earlier post, ask your school. I have some old lower math that was transferred, but one school wants me to take a higher math and I have two previous degrees and do not like math. So I am applying to my dream school which is taking my Statistics. I really think asking the schools is the best way to go. And personally, I don't think math really has anything to do with Stats. So don't let that bother you either. Good luck!

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Mar 6, 2015

Statistics is basically applied Algebra - there is no way to understand the basic principles or make sense of statistical measurement techniques without it. You also need Algebra for Chemistry - lots of math required.

If the "TWU" in OP's post means Texas Woman's University - they are pretty hard core when it comes to math. FYI, all BS degree programs in public/state schools in Texas require college Algebra, no matter what the major.

caliotter3 · Mar 6, 2015

Look at the requirements for the programs that you are interested in. Sometimes the algebra course has a time limit, although with most programs, it does not. Each program sets their own requirements.

tnmater · Mar 6, 2015

I went back to school at 46. My last algebra class was 20 yrs prior, made a C back then. I found a used algebra book to review the basics before taking Probs & Stats. I grew up with the stereotype that girls are bad at math, so I was. But later, I told myself that isn't true and told myself I could do it. I took just that class in the summer to give my full concentration. Summer classes are smaller (more instructor attention) plus they cut right to the basics. I utilized the free tutoring service at the college. I also was lucky enough to have a friend who uses P&S for their work all the time. I made a B, took it and ran. Now I'm in my 3rd semester of nursing school. Sounds like you're a great student already making As in science. Don't hesitate, just jump right in. You can do it!

Biscuits&Cheese · Mar 6, 2015

First, taking algebra over may give you all sorts of benefits, especially if it has been that long since you have really used it and you struggled with it the first time around.

I don't think it is 100% necessary though. A couple of options if you are well motivated:

- Audit the class if your school will allow it.

- Check out an "adult learner - continuing ed" class for no credit, but extra help.

- Go through Khan Academy's math program. This will require dedication, but if you do the whole thing through Algebra, it will be a good review. www.khanacademy.org

- Pay someone to tutor you through the algebra book.

Think about if you need a professor to help teach math to you or if you are able to teach yourself concepts that are difficult to you.

You do need to brush up on your math/algebra before you do statistics. You are concerned about your GPA. Don't risk the statistics grade later.

:) Good luck!! I bet you will be surprised when some of the algebra looks familiar, even after so long!

northmississippi · Mar 6, 2015

algebra will be alot easier if you learn on your own before going to the class, especially if you learn from reading "act for dummies" math section so you can relearn all those little rules. Take the intermediate algebra class first also. don't accept anything below a b.