Quantitative & Symbolic Reasoning
Although many students meet the requirement with a mathematics course, either because their intended majors require math or because they enjoy it, other students prefer to take a course that emphasizes reasoning or mathematical applications rather than traditional math.
Many students, for example, take economics to gain some insight into the world of business and finance. Many economic principles are expressed in mathematical terms, and in an introductory economics course you will apply simple mathematical principles to real-life situations.
Students interested in the study of language — students who may major or minor in a foreign language, English, communications, a behavioral science, or speech, for example — may wish to take linguistics, which sharpens awareness of verbal reasoning through the study of the history, nature, and structure of language.
We also offer courses entirely devoted to the study of reasoning and logical argument: PHIL 115: Practical Reasoning, and PHIL 120: Introduction to Logic.
Grade required
Any passing grade (0.7 or higher) is acceptable. The course may not be taken on the satisfactory/not satisfactory (S/NS) grading option.
Placement
A passing score on a placement test (or college credit for the prerequisite math course) is required for registration in MATH 111, 120, and 124. For the prerequisites and registration restrictions of other Q/SR courses, consult the Course Descriptions.
Overlaps with other requirements
You may also count your Q/SR course toward the Areas of Knowledge requirement, in whichever Area it is listed. (A few Q/SR courses do not count toward Areas of Knowledge.) If your Q/SR course happens to be a W-course and/or is part of your major or minor, it can count toward those requirements as well.
AP and IB
There are several AP scores that can be used to satisfy the Q/SR requirement and can also be counted toward Areas of Knowledge. See the AP tables for more information.
There are several International Baccalaureate Higher Level exams that can be used to satisfy the Q/SR requirement and can also be counted toward Areas of Knowledge. See the IB tables for more information.
For transfer students
Any course that transfers as a "Q" course (for example, PSYCH Q-1XX), or any MATH X or STAT X course, will satisfy the Q/SR requirement if the course transfers as at least 4 credits. Other courses must be petitioned at UAA Advising. Bring a copy of the course syllabus or the description from the catalog of the college offering the course.
You can check the UW Equivalency Guide for Washington Community and Technical Colleges to determine which courses from Washington community colleges count toward the UW's Q/SR requirement; they are marked in the lists with a Q.
Postbaccalaureate students
Postbaccalaureate students are not required to complete the Q/SR requirement.
Registering for Q/SR courses
You can generate a complete list of Q/SR courses with space still available using the MyPlan course search.