Math (online) test at university level for non-student

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for university-level math tests that can be taken online or physically, particularly for someone with a background in mechanical engineering who is considering pursuing a master's degree. Participants explore the recognition of such tests by universities and the necessity of demonstrating math competency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about available university-level math tests that are recognized by universities, expressing a desire to assess their math skills for potential master's studies.
  • Another participant suggests that there may not be a substitute for an undergraduate degree and questions the necessity of additional tests given the original poster's existing BSc in mechanical engineering.
  • Some participants propose taking practice tests for the Math GRE as a way to evaluate math skills, although it is noted that this test may be geared towards math majors.
  • There is a discussion about whether a certificate of math competency is necessary for admission into a master's program, with one participant indicating that it could potentially provide an exemption from certain requirements.
  • Concerns are raised about the relevance of the Math GRE for someone with a BSc in mechanical engineering, particularly regarding the suitability of the test for their background.
  • One participant mentions that in the Netherlands, a bridging program is mandatory for entering a master's program, raising questions about what such programs entail.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and relevance of additional math tests and certificates for someone with a BSc in mechanical engineering. There is no consensus on whether such tests are essential or beneficial for pursuing a master's degree.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the potential limitations of the Math GRE for evaluating competency in the context of a mechanical engineering background, and the discussion includes references to specific requirements for master's programs in the Netherlands.

Mech_LS24
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Hi all!

During the weekend I exercise with math problems from the Calculus book (LINK - Calculus). Are there any tests which I can take on university level (online or physically)? It would be nice if the tests are recognized/accepted by universities as I consider doing a master-study in the future. My background is within mechanical engineering.

Thanks!

 
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I don't think there is any set of tests that would be considered an acceptable substitute for doing an undergraduate degree. Do you have one and are just trying to get more into math right now? What kind of masters degree are you hoping to get?
 
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Mech_LS24 said:
Are there any tests which I can take on university level (online or physically)? It would be nice if the tests are recognized/accepted by universities as I consider doing a master-study in the future.
Maybe take some practice tests for the Math GRE, and then take the actual Math GRE?

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct...ook_math.pdf&usg=AOvVaw3TushzvEVEocFKmxWKWr0d

But as @Office_Shredder says, you probably need an undergraduate math degree to get into a graduate math program...
 
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In another post, you said you have a BSME. Didn't you already take intro calculus years ago then? I ask because reading the reviews for the book you linked to, it seems like it is intended for intro calculus.

What subject do you want to get a master's in? Math?
 
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vela said:
In another post, you said you have a BSME.
That.s correct, I have a Bsc in ME :).

But I would like to extend it to master-level, therefore I am exercise with the calculus book as mentioned which is used at the University. It would be nice if I could take a (more or less 'general') test indicating at what level I am. A test with added a certificate is preferred, which can substantiate the level of knowlegde gained.

berkeman said:
Maybe take some practice tests for the Math GRE, and then take the actual Math GRE?
Looks good! Is this Math test only for US citizens? Wikipedia says:
"Scores on this exam are required for entrance to most math Ph.D. programs in the United States"

With some practice, is this feasible for me with a Bsc?

vela said:
What subject do you want to get a master's in? Math?
If so, I would like to get Mechanical Engineering masters.

Thanks for your replies!
 
Mech_LS24 said:
That.s correct, I have a Bsc in ME :).

But I would like to extend it to master-level, therefore I am exercise with the calculus book as mentioned which is used at the University. It would be nice if I could take a (more or less 'general') test indicating at what level I am. A test with added a certificate is preferred, which can substantiate the level of knowlegde gained.Looks good! Is this Math test only for US citizens? Wikipedia says:
"Scores on this exam are required for entrance to most math Ph.D. programs in the United States"

With some practice, is this feasible for me with a Bsc?If so, I would like to get Mechanical Engineering masters.

Thanks for your replies!
This is confusing. If you already have a BSc in ME and want to apply for a MSc in ME, don't you already have the requisite credentials? Why would you need a certificate showing your level of undergrad math? That should be in your transcript.

You haven't said how long ago you got your BSc. So if you just want to evaluate your current level of math competency, then the math GRE may not be suitable [ETA: doesn't hurt, I suppose; but if it's geared towards math majors, you might not do so well in some areas]. See if the university or universities you are interested in have available old tests from their undergrad math classes [that a BSc ME would take].
 
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The certificate would be 'nice-to-have', and isn't requisite for me. I am considering a master degree so the certificate could give probably an exemption (?). I got my BSc now 1 year, here in the Netherlands the BSc isn't enough for starting directly to the masters-program, an bridging program is mandatory to follow.
 
Mech_LS24 said:
The certificate would be 'nice-to-have', and isn't requisite for me. I am considering a master degree so the certificate could give probably an exemption (?). I got my BSc now 1 year, here in the Netherlands the BSc isn't enough for starting directly to the masters-program, an bridging program is mandatory to follow.
In that case, you should directly contact the universities that you are interested in for your MSc; discuss their entrance requirements; and ask whether they offer proficiency exams that would provide waivers for specific requirements.

ETA: Just curious: What does the bridging program involve? Who or what provides bridging programs?
 
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