Students
Understanding the value of math
Whatever you plan to do in your life, at school, at home or in your future career, you need mathematical skills to succeed in our society.
Mathematical concepts are present in everything you do. Knowing and understanding these concepts will serve you well in college or university, apprenticeships, and other learning situations.
Mathematics is more than just learning about numbers or memorizing formulas. Through mathematics, you are developing valuable skills such as problem solving, spatial visualization, analysis and abstract thinking. These skills are valued by today’s employers and will give you greater flexibility in your future career paths.
Math opens many doors
Mathematics is an interesting and creative subject. It opens many doors to other areas of study such as medicine, engineering, and computer science, as well as the study of commerce, economics and other social sciences.
Even in areas of study that do not appear to be related to mathematics, like fine arts, graphic and interior design, languages and literature, mathematical concepts are present in varying forms. For example, it is through mathematics that we know about the perfect ratios shown in Renaissance paintings and the use of iambic pentameter in Shakespearean sonnets.
Whether you decide to pursue a trade or an apprenticeship program or to study a diversity of careers from carpentry to landscaping to fashion design, mathematics is an important component of your chosen field of study.
Your math options in high school
The revised senior high school mathematics courses have been designed with you in mind!
The ministry along with its education partners has designed mathematics courses that offer many options to meet your needs for the future - between grade levels, into the post-secondary, technologies and trades system, and into the workforce.
The following web pages offer you detailed information about course selection and describe various options you can choose in high school.
Life after high school
As you are thinking about life after high school and considering future studies and career paths, start planning ahead. Ask yourself, what mathematics courses will I need to reach my goals?
There are several things you can do:
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Ask your mathematics teacher or your guidance counsellor for their advice.
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Talk to people who are working in your field of interest or who have similar goals.
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Learn about what mathematics requirements* you may need for post-secondary studies, apprenticeships or possible employment.
A good starting point is to check out the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS)* website which outlines the most recent information regarding mathematics requirements at post-secondary institutions and programs in Alberta.
*In some cases, not all post-secondary programs and institutions are listed. This site will be updated on a regular basis as new information is made available. It is always recommended that you check directly with post-secondary institutions about entrance requirements to ensure accuracy and completeness of information.
