What topics are usually studied in college algebra?

mob: What topics are usually studied in college algebra?
I’ve listened to people who’ve been to different colleges. Some of them say that it’s alot like high school algebra 2, but others talk like it involves more advanced topics and is much harder. Does anyone know if college algebra can be different that much at different colleges?

Answers and Views:

Answer by fda a
Both the people you have talked to is correct in their own ways. It comes down to what algebra you are referring to. For example, I can be talking about “elementary algebra” (high school or even middle school algebra). It would then be a lot similar to high school algebra if you are taking it in college. However, I can be talking about linear algebra, and it would be much more advance than the elementary algebra. As far as I know, I am going to take linear algebra right after I am done studying multivariable calculus — and my friends said it was much more difficult than multivariable calculus!

Answer by Pisces Apple Lady
It does vary from college to college. I went to several in trying to find the one I would like best, plus I took some general studies at the cheaper community colleges. I think you should see if the college you are thinking of attending has a website. There will probably be a course description or outline given. Most will have solving of two equations systems, word problems and quadratics, log functions, complex numbers, absolute values, and the first week will likely review what you learned in high school.