Placement Levels

At College of the Canyons, we place students in courses that maximize the probability of success. Often times, students will be placed in courses with others who have a similar academic history. In accordance with AB 705 and AB 1705, students have the right to access transfer-level math and English coursework, along with academic credit ESL coursework. As a result, every placement level on our assessment system includes a transfer-level English and math placement course. In addition, for those students with ESL advisory placements, they may choose to optionally enroll in ESL courses up to ESL 100 or English 101, regardless of their ESL placement level. You can read through the courses comprised in each placement level for Math, English, and ESL below. For students planning on enrolling in math courses, please note that while you may choose to take courses from lower placement levels, you may not directly enroll in courses from higher placement levels without first completing the necessary prerequisite coursework.

Math

NOTE: Math Courses with an "X" you can think of as "extra" support versions of the courses. 

3.17.2025 Update: The math system has recently been updated, please refer to the placement levels shown on your assessment result page for the latest placement levels. The chart below may not reflect the most recent changes:

English

As of Fall, 2019 the English department discontinued course placements below the transfer level. As a result, all students who assess in English will place into our new English composition course (English Level 101 or the new name English C1000 4 Units).

ESL

As of Fall 2019, all students who assess will be made eligible to enroll into transfer-level English, however, our placement system will still generate advisory (optional) coursework placements for students whose first language is not English. For ESL students, we highly recommend they first meet with one of our advisors or counselors prior to enrolling into ESL 090, 100, or English 101/C1000 to get assistance with determining the best course of action.

ESL Non-Credit

In addition to credit ESL courses, College of the Canyons offers free non-credit ESL options to consider. These courses are great choices to help improve your language skills before enrolling in credit courses, and are also great for those seeking to improve their language skills without earning credit toward a college degree or certificate. Visit the non-credit ESL page here to learn more.

Chemistry

All students will now receive a course placement into either Chem 151 (Preparatory Chemistry) or Chem 201 (General Chemistry). These courses may or may not be required for your major. Speak with an advisor or counselor if you are unsure if Chemistry is a course requirements for your program or major.