What Is Upper Level Math?

Upper level math is the final plateau in the basic study of mathematics.  Building on mathematical foundation principles learned in junior high, high school, and the early years of college, upper level math expands into the realm of conceptual visualization and abstract application. Usually reserved for college juniors and seniors, upper level math prepares the student for life outside the classroom. Job-specific upper level math courses are also available through many technical and community college programs.

In the college curriculum, the progression to upper level math begins with lower level math courses. These courses tend to be comprehensive in scope, designed to provide an overview of mathematics and its relationship to other fields. Lower level math courses develop essential skills, like critical thinking and problem solving, and establish a strong foundation of principles, terms, and methods that will be used in the more advanced, upper level math studies.

Upper level math courses narrow the scope, providing a more in-depth approach. At the upper level, courses become more abstract and are designed around specific goals. Upper level math encourages focus on the theory and method of specific disciplines in order to understand applications and limitations. The challenging contexts introduced at this level specialize and refine math skills to enable successful transition to real-world applications.

Why Bother With Upper Level Math

Many of us have heard that upper level math is irrelevant and no purpose in everyday life. The TV crime/drama series “Numb3rs,” put that idea to rest by introducing the use of extensive mathematical equations in the behavior analysis and apprehension of criminals.  In addition to forensic applications, upper level math plays an integral role in many good paying occupations in our modern, high-tech world.  

Real-world applications of upper level math fall into three categories. Theoretical math deals with analytical applications that are essential to agricultural scientists, architects, biologists and chemists, systems analysts, engineers, foresters and conservationists, meteorologists, physicists, astronomers, and statisticians. Applied math makes use of specialized mathematical methods to solve practical problems. Professions that require a strong foundation in applied math include accountants and auditors, aircraft pilots and flight engineers, computer programmers, doctors and dentists, electrical technicians, financial managers, insurance actuaries, landscape architects, sociologists, surveyors, urban planners, and veterinarians. Practical or shop math is, as its name implies, hands-on mathematical application. Careers in this category include auto mechanics, bricklayers and stonemasons, broadcast technicians, carpenters, electricians, jewelers, machinists, millwrights, plumbers and pipefitters, sheet-metal workers, tool and die makers, and welders.

The Value of a Good Graphing Calculator in Upper Level Math

Meeting the demands of these technologically enhanced careers requires some high-tech help. The small but mighty graphing calculator should be a staple in every upper level math student’s technological tool kit. A good graphing calculator expedites problem solving by eliminating tedious manual calculation and complex point-to-point graphing. To enhance conceptual understanding, the graphing calculator adds dimension to problem solving through table building, curve tracing, and critical point determination. By significantly reducing the time needed for problem solving, use of the graphing calculator allows time for dynamic dialogue which, in turn, encourages critical thinking. Finally, the graphing calculator supports the integration of mathematical concepts into other disciplines and, ultimately, into real-life applications.

Proficiency in upper level math concepts can dramatically improve employment opportunity in careers from Agriculture to Zoology. For an upper level math student empowered by his faithful companion, the graphing calculator, the possibilities are endless.

SellYourCalculators.com wants to pair you with the perfect graphing calculator to meet your upper level math needs.  We also buy back graphing calculators that are no longer needed. Contact us today for more information.