Information
Mathematical Sciences Programs
General Information
Mathematics courses range from liberal arts mathematics and statistics to differential equations and linear algebra.
Many mathematics courses provide students the opportunity to use popular technology including graphing calculators, GeoGebra and Mathematica, WebAssign, MyMathLab, and online statistical software.
Computer science courses offer students experience working with C++, Java, Python, assembly language, and MATLAB just to name a few. Students finishing these courses are prepared to transfer into to four-year computer science programs. Engineering courses offer students an introduction to engineering fields. The Department of Engineering also offers an additional statics course, and the debut of a circuits course with circuits lab.
Available Support
Students can get mathematics support two ways. The Tutoring Hub, located on the second floor of the Library, provides one-to-one tutoring on a drop-in basis remotely and in person. The Math Study Center also provides embedding tutors for most of our mathematics courses. Supplemental Instruction offers coaches that provide additional group study practices to students in mathematics courses.
Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program
The Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement Program (or MESA) is a mentoring program involving faculty, upper division students, and science/health professionalshelp to help underserved and underrepresented students achieve success in math- and science-based degrees. All STEM-based majors (mathematics, computer science, engineering, biology, physics, chemistry, to name a few) are strongly encouraged to get connected with MESA.
Computer Science Learning Communities (CSLC)
El Camino College is also one of four institutions of the Computer Science Learning Communities (CSLC) program. Th CSLC is a scholarship-based program for computer science majors that provides "support and structure" to "succeed in college and be prepared for job opportunities after college". For more information about the CSLC, click here to watch a video. Students also get connected with internship opportunities as well. All computer science majors are strongly encouraged to apply.
Frequently Asked Topics
You can be successful learning mathematics online! When deciding to learn mathematics online, here are factors to consider:
- Commitment. For online classes, you will need to spend more time practicing and reading math on your own.
- Time Management Skills. You need to get organized and plan to complete coursework at least two to three times a week.
- Self Discipline. You need to stick to your study plans and seek help immediately when you have questions.
- Engagement. Utilize the tools in Canvas to communicate with your online math instructor and fellow classmates. This will help you feel connected with your class and provide learning opportunities.
When you have questions, make sure to reach out to your online math instructor and regularly attend the instructor’s office hours.
For a math, computer science, or engineering prerequisite clearance, please call our division office at 310-660-3200 to speak with the dean. For any other course outside of this division, you can call the respective division office or the Counseling Office.
Starting Fall 2025, students can opt in to register for MATH 187 (Transition to Calculus) focuses on the essential algebra and trig skills you need to succeed in MATH 190 (Calculus I)! Learn key study success strategies, concepts, graphing, and problem-solving methods to streamline your readiness for transfer-level first-semester calculus. Click here for more details.
Complete the Repeat Petition Form from the Admissions & Records (A&R) Office. Repeat petitions are processed through Counseling Office and not through the division. After completing the form, you may email them at [email protected] to check on the status of it.
Section transfers are for students who need to switch to a different section due an extenuating situation or circumstance. It is the student's responsibility to get permission from the instructor that he or she wants to transfer into. Once this has been established, complete the Section Transfer Form.
Complete the Online Ed Form. You can follow-up by sending an email to [email protected].
Do you want to strengthen your math skills? Here are some options that are absolutely free to use:
- For guided practice, sign up for the Math Academy. It's a non-credit course to prepare you for transfer-level mathematics coursework. Plus, if you complete the academy, you receive a free TI-84 Plus Calculator and a framed certificate of completion. Click here for more information on the Math Academy.
- For self-guided practice, sign up for the Practice Your Math Skills supplement. Click here to download the instructions.
The following software is available to students free of charge:
- Mathematica: Click here to download installation instructions.
If you are interested in auditing a course, please complete the Student Request to Audit a Class form. If the form is disabled, please go to the Admissions & Records Office for a paper copy. Please note the following details regarding audits:
- Audit forms are not processed or accepted until after the add/drop deadline.
- After your audit form is approved, please contact the Cashier's Office to pay the audit fee.
- Course audits are performed through the Admissions & Records (A&R) Office and not in this division. So, please follow up with the A&R Office on the status of your submitted audit form.
Have a concern and need to speak with the dean? Complete the Meet with the Dean form. After submitting it, a division office staff member will contact you to schedule a meeting.