Western New Mexico University offers two levels of pre-college level, developmental mathematics courses.  The first level is called Fundamentals of Mathematics (DSM101) and reviews basic concepts and computations of arithmetic.  The second level is Fundamentals of Algebra (DSM102) and is an entry level course in pre-algebra and algebra concepts.  Because these courses cover material that is traditionally covered in high school courses, they do not count for degree credit, either for general education requirements or as electives.  However, they do count as "institutional" credit, meaning that they count for financial aid purposes, and the grades are figured into your overall GPA.  Students who need to take several developmental courses should plan on taking more time to graduate than students who do not need developmental coursework.
Students are placed into these courses on the basis of their COMPASS placement test score.  The COMPASS test is a computerized placement test that most entering freshmen are required to take before they register for classes at WNMU.  It measures basic skill levels in mathematics, reading and writing.  For the math portion of the test, calculators are allowed.   If you know that you will be taking the COMPASS test, it is a good idea to "brush up" on your basic skills, so that you are placed into the correct course level, and are neither unchallenged nor "lost" in the course you enroll in.  This is especially important when enrolling in mathematics courses, which are rather sequential in nature.
    Below are some skills you should review in order to pass these portions of the COMPASS math test.

Level 1 (DSM101)
    - Add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers, fractions and decimals
    - Understand and work with ratios
    - Use equations to solve percent and proportion problems
    - Convert between fraction, decimal and percent forms of numbers
    - Convert between different units of measurement.
    - Solve one or two-step word problems of adding, subtracting, multiplying and   dividing
    - Develop, interpret and use simple tables and graphs.

Level 2 (DSM102)
    - Add, subtract, multiply and divide positive and negative numbers.
    - Evaluate algebraic expressions
    - Simplify variable expressions by using the distributive property and
       combining similar terms.
    - Solve linear equations containing one variable.
    - Solve quadratic equations by factoring.
    - Add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials
    - Factor polynomials over the set of integers.

For more information on COMPASS testing, including dates and times of upcoming tests, contact Academic Support Services at 505-538-6400.