MATH 150 Trigonometry

What is MATH 150?

MATH 150 is Trigonometry, a branch of mathematics that studies relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. It includes memorization and use of trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations, real-world applications and more.

Which schools does MATH 150 transfer to?

All CSU schools. See a counselor to verify specific private colleges.

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Who typically* takes MATH 150?

BSTEM (Business, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) majors.

What can I do to be successful in MATH 150?

Plan to study outside of class at least 6 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 note cards, 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 150 topics?

First off, remember that you are not alone! Many students find MATH 150 challenging, so here are the supports you have available here at Mt. SAC.

Your Instructor

$Instructor writing y=x+b on a chalkboard while saying "You can do it!"$

Tutoring Centers on Campus

$MARCS logo - Mt. SAC Mathematics Resources$

MARCS

$STEM Center logo - Mt. San Antonio College$

STEM Center

$ASAC logo - Academic Support and Achievement Center. Your one-stop shop for success! In-person and online support available.$

ASAC

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

Trigonometry plays an integral role in calculus and has a wide range of applications in architecture, surveying, astronomy, physics, engineering, construction, marine biology, navigation, and crime scene investigation.

Math concepts frequently used in MATH 150?

Basic arithmetic, including fractions
Basic algebra, including simplifying expressions, factoring, and solving equations
Pythagorean theorem and similar triangles
Graphing using transformations
Inverse functions

Where can I brush up on math concepts frequently used in MATH 150?

Join the MATH 150 Math Jumpstart Canvas page, created by Mt. SAC math faculty, with topic-based modules that include under 5-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.

Math Support Options

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 BSTEM path that you have access to:

MATH 150+15 Trigonometry w/ Support [5 units]
MATH 160 Precalculus Mathematics [4 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 trigonometry! It is not a skill set that one is either born with or not. YOU are capable not only of learning trigonometry, but also of excelling in trigonometry!

For additional trigonometry help, please visit the Math Activities Resource Centers (MARCS) or the Academic Support and Achievement Center (ASAC).