UMTYMP Handbook

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1. UMTYMP Program Description

UMTYMP provides a challenging alternative for Minnesota’s talented mathematics students in grades 6-12. The highly accelerated courses are specially designed to provide these students with an intense academic experience that will stimulate their mathematical interest and abilities. The program, offered through the University of Minnesota, School of Mathematics Center for Educational Programs (MathCEP), is partially supported by the State of Minnesota.

Students in grades 5-7 are identified and recommended as eligible for entering UMTYMP at the Algebra level. Many of these students then register to take the UMTYMP Algebra Qualifying Examination. Over 800 students test annually in February through April; of which approximately 150 are admitted to the Twin Cities and, depending on the year, up to 20-25 each in Duluth and Rochester. Each year, UMTYMP enrolls over 600 students throughout the state.

The Program has two components. The two-year high school component covers the traditional high school mathematics curriculum (through Pre-calculus). The courses stress critical problem-solving skills and comprehension of important concepts. Each two-hour UMTYMP class covers the equivalent of about three weeks of regular high school mathematics content. Successful students achieve the high school Algebra, Statistics, Trigonometry, and Geometry standards set by the MN Department of Education. The 3-year calculus component allows students to complete up to 12 semester credits of honors-level college calculus, covering single- and multi-variable calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra. Faculty members carefully develop, teach, and monitor the UMTYMP calculus curricula (syllabi, assignments and examinations), and students receive University of Minnesota credit for the calculus courses. Each successfully completed UMTYMP high school course (4 possible) and full year of UMTYMP Calculus (3 possible) is equivalent to one full year of high school credit.

Each of the five years of UMTYMP is a 33-35 week sequence held during the academic year. During this time, UMTYMP participants attend a two-hour class once a week after school. On exam weeks students may be required to come to campus twice, in order to ensure that new material is introduced at the required pace.  Small classes allow students to participate actively in class discussions, to have close contact with exceptional teachers, and to present their discoveries to peers with similar mathematical interests. Based on recent surveys, students report spending an average of 6-8 hours a week working independently on UMTYMP homework.

In addition to UMTYMP courses, MathCEP occasionally offers enrichment programs during the school year and summer for students in grades 4-12. Each year hundreds of students learn and enjoy mathematics, gain information about educational and career goals, and build positive relationships with role models in science, engineering, and mathematics.

For additional information, see the About UMTYMP page.


This section last updated on 1/12/2023. (Updated old links.)

2. UMTYMP Course Catalog

High School Component

The UMTYMP high school component is two years long.  In the first-year students take Algebra 1 and Algebra 2.  During the second, students take Geometry in the fall semester and Math Analysis (PreCalculus) in the spring.

Algebra 1

Number systems and properties.  Polynomials and factoring.  Equations and inequalities involving linear functions, polynomials, multiple variables and/or absolute values.  Rational expressions and functions.  Exponents and radicals.  Distance, slope and equations of lines.  

Algebra 2

Functions and graph transformations.  Combining functions.  Polynomial division, remainder and factor theorem.  Graphing rational functions.  Exponential functions, inverse functions and logarithms.  Linear and nonlinear systems of equations.  Matrices, matrix algebra, matrix multiplication and inverse matrices.  Conic sections.  Sequences and Series.  Probability and statistics.  Permutations, combinations.  Binomial Theorem.  Mathematical Induction.

Geometry

Proof based geometry course with emphasis on problem solving.  Points, lines, and planes.  Angles, triangles and congruency theorems.  Perimeter and area.  Similar triangles.  Right triangles and Pythagorean theorem.  Triangle centers, including centroid, orthocenter, incenter and circumcenter.  Quadrilaters and polygonals, including classification, properties and areas.  Circles and power of a point.  Polyhedra and other 3D solids.  Isometries.  Analytic geometry.  Right triangle trigonometry.  Compass and straightedge constructions are used throughout.

PreCalculus

Equations and inequalities.  Polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions.  Unit circle trigonometry, including graphs, inverse trigonometric functions, trigonometric equations and trigonometric identities.  Polar coordinates and graphs.  Parametric functions and graphs.  Vectors with both algebraic and geometric approaches.  Conic sections.  Factoring polynomials.  Linear and nonlinear systems of equations.  Matrices and matrix algebra.  Sequences, series and mathematical induction.  (Many of these topics are covered in algebra; in Precalculus we review and extend that material.)


Calculus Component

The Calculus component lasts for three years.  Courses are named by year, not by content.  This can be confusing when comparing to other calculus sequences.  At most colleges and universities, for example, Calculus 1 and Calculus 2 refer to the first and second semesters of single-variable calculus.  In UMTYMP, single-variable calculus is covered during the fall and spring semesters of Calculus 1, sometimes referred to as UMTYMP Calculus 1A and UMTYMP Calculus 1B.   In UMTYMP, Calculus 2 refers to the second-year course, which actually covers linear algebra and other topics.

The UMTYMP Calculus courses cover the following material, with minor variations from year to year:

UMTYMP Calculus I

Fall (Math 1471): functions of one variable; limits; continuity; derivatives, including applications and the geometric interpretation of first and second derivatives; mean value theorem and extended mean value theorem; extreme values; linear approximations; optimization.  Proofs of major results, such as the product rule, chain rule, and L’Hospital’s rule.

Spring (Math 1472): integration, including definitions, applications, and techniques, with more exposure to proofs and formal reasoning. Rigorous treatment of sequences and series.

UMTYMP Calculus II

Fall (Math 1473): introduction to differential equations, including first and second-order linear differential equations; systems of linear equations; logic, set theory, and methods of proof; precise definition of limits of sequences and functions; 3D coordinates; dot and cross products; equations of lines and planes in 3D; linear transformations.

Spring (Math 2471): theoretical course in linear algebra, including Euclidean space and general vector spaces, including function spaces; eigenvalues and discrete dynamical systems.

UMTYMP Calculus III

Fall (Math 2472): multivariable functions; differential geometry of curves in Euclidean space; parametric surfaces; partial and directional derivatives; total derivative matrix and linear approximations; chain rule; quadratic forms, Sylvester’s Theorem, Taylor’s Theorem, and multivariable optimization; Lagrange multipliers.

Spring (Math 2473): multiple integration; integrals on parametric curves and surfaces; classical theorems in vector analysis, stressing a conceptual and geometric approach.

In addition, we occasionally offer UMTYMP Advanced Topics (Math 4990) for students who have completed Calculus III but are still in high school.  Recent Advanced Topics courses have covered Complex Analysis, Introduction to Abstract Algebra, Enumerative Combinatorics, and Discrete Geometry at a level comparable in difficulty to our department’s regular courses for math majors in those areas. 


This section last updated 6/4/2022. (Minor updates; "UMTYMP Math Analysis" is now called "UMTYMP Precalculus" to match common usage.)

3. Calendars and First Day of Class

 Schedules

Finalized class schedules with class dates, location, and times will be sent in August.  The most up-to-date versions of our course calendars will be posted to the UMTYMP Schedules page as soon as they are available. 

Students who are registered for UMTYMP Algebra, Precalculus and Calculus I will receive information in August about our Back to School night, typically held on the Tuesday before Labor Day, i.e. the week before classes start.  Students can come to campus, locate their classrooms, and get class information.  By Calculus II, students are well acquainted with campus, so there is no Back to School night for Calculus II and III students. 

Please note: during the pandemic, Back to School night has been held online instead of in-person on campus.  Families could choose to come to campus on their own to locate buildings and classrooms.  For the Fall 2023 semester, we anticipate the Back to School night will be in-person again.


Class Days

Classes will typically meet 1 day per week. During exam weeks there are two class sessions: one for the test and one for review or new material, depending on the course.  Course days are as follows:  (For the 2023-24 school year, instructors are discussing possible changes to the schedule during exam weeks.  We will communicate any changes to families as soon as possible.)

Algebra and Geometry/Precalculus are offered on Thursdays, with occasional Tuesdays.

We generally run two sections of Calculus I; students choose between Wednesday or Thursday; during exam weeks all students will attend the exam review on Monday and take the exam on Thursday. 

We generally run two sections of Calculus II; students choose between Wednesday or Thursday; during exam weeks all students will attend the exam review on Monday and take the exam on Wednesday. 

Calculus III is held on Wednesday; during exam weeks all students will attend the exam review on Monday and take the exam on Wednesday. 

Please note: during Thanksgiving and MEA weeks, some classes are moved to Monday or Tuesday.  See the schedules for each course for more details.


First Day of Class

On the Twin Cities campus, fall semester UMTYMP courses always begin the week of Labor Day in September.  The University's spring semester begins the day after Martin Luther King Day, but UMTYMP begins earlier:

  • Calculus II & III typically start one week earlier.
  • Calculus I, Algebra, and Precalculus typically start two weeks earlier.

See UMTYMP Schedules for current schedules.


This section last updated 6/5/2023. (Updated information about Back to School night and schedules.)

4. Homework, Exams, and Grades

Homework Policy

Homework is a major component of a student’s work in UMTYMP, and successful completion of all assigned homework is vital to maintaining a good grade in UMTYMP.  Students are encouraged to work with each other on homework, but should be sure that they can complete the problems on their own and are not overly reliant on help from others.  Understanding how to do the homework problems is the best way to prepare for exams.

In some courses, students receive a class syllabus at the beginning of each class with the assigned homework for the entire semester.  Any changes to the syllabus will be announced in class and posted to the course's Canvas website.  In other courses, homework assignments are distributed each week after class.

The following policies are the default for any UMTYMP course, but each class might incorporate some modifications.  Students should make sure to pay attention to the policies for their class.  

Due Dates and Late Homework.  Homework handed in after the due date will be considered late, except in documented cases of illness.  If students know they will miss a class, for any reason, they must plan ahead and turn their homework in on time.  Exceptions for late homework can be made when there is a family emergency or a student illness accompanied by a doctor’s note.  Please contact the UMTYMP office directly if this situation occurs.  (mathcep@umn.edu, 612-625-2861).

UMTYMP students have a lot to keep track of, and we know life happens; occasionally students have a very busy week, or forget an assignment at home, or leave it in their locker at school.  For those situations, students are allowed one "free" late homework assignment per semester, with no penalty.  This policy can be used for both the written and online homework, but only during the same week.  For example, if a student uses their free late assignment for the Class 3 homework, both the online and written portions for that week can be turned in late.  If a student completes the online portion and uses the free late assignment for the written portion, they cannot get a free extension on a later online assignment.

If the free late assignment has already been used, late homework will be accepted but at a reduced score:

  • High School Level Courses:  Scores on late homework will be reduced by 5 points.  This applies to both written and online homework, so if both are late, the total reduction is 10 points.
  • Calculus Level Courses:  Scores on late written or online homework assignments will be reduced by 25%.  

In some UMTYMP classes, late homework must be turned in within one week of the original deadline.  In others, late homework will only be accepted until the day of the exam which covers the corresponding material.  (Hence an assignment from September must be handed in before Exam 1 in October; it cannot be submitted in December for credit.)  Students should make sure to pay attention to the policies in their class.

Alternate Days: If a student in Calculus I-III has a conflict on their regular class day, it may be possible for them to switch days on a one-time basis.  For example, if a Wednesday Calculus I student has a band concert during their regularly scheduled UMTYMP class, they can arrange with the office to attend Calculus I on Thursday that week; see our Attendance Policy for details.  Their homework must still be turned in online by their original due date.

Homework Labeling and Presentation: Your name should appear in the upper right hand corner of each page.  In the high school level courses, write your instructor's name.  In the calculus courses, write your workshop leader's name, not the lecturer. For example:

High School Level Calculus Level

First Last
Algebra
Teacher's Name
Section 6.3

First Last
Calculus II
Workshop Leader's Name
Section 3.4

 

(Homework policies last updated 6/5/23 for Fall 2023, with minor rewording about late homework deadlines.)


Exams

Students are expected to take their exams on their scheduled days.  Students will receive a class calendar at the beginning of the year; schedules are also posted at https://cse.umn.edu/mathcep/umtymp-schedules.

Students who will miss an exam due to a conflict MUST take it ahead of time.  This is university policy.  Contact the UMTYMP office at least two weeks in advance to schedule your alternate exam time.  (mathcep@umn.edu, 612-625-2861)

Exceptions can be made for documented family emergencies or student illness.  A student who misses an exam for illness will be required to provide a doctor’s note.  Please contact the UMTYMP office directly if this situation occurs.


Course Grades

UMTYMP grades are determined by performance on both written and online homework, exams and class participation.  By default, each component is weighted as follows, although the percentages may be adjusted in some classes:

  • 45% Exams
  • 45% Homework (30% written and 15% online)
  • 10% Class participation

Students are expected to earn a “B” or better, in order to progress to the next level of UMTYMP courses.  If students fall below this level, they are subject to the following policies:

  • For Algebra I/II and Geometry/Math Analysis:

Students who end the semester with a "B‑" may be allowed to continue under academic probation, with an approved learning agreement.  Any students below this level will receive a grade of “W” (withdrawn) and receive no credit for that semester.  Students who receive a “W” have the option of repeating their UMTYMP course the following year or returning to their home school to take the class.

  • For all Calculus courses:

Students with a final college grade of “B-” or below will not be allowed to progress to the next UMTYMP Calculus course.  These students may request a “W” (withdrawn) on their transcript in place of a letter grade. Taking a “B-” will affect a student’s college GPA, but the student will receive credits towards graduation.  A “W” grade will not lower a student’s college GPA, but the student receives no credit towards graduation.


Reporting Grades to a Student's School

Students receive a grade report at the end of each completed UMTYMP semester. Grade reports are also submitted to the student's home school at the beginning of January and the end of May.

  • Algebra I/II and Geometry/Math Analysis grades are reported to a student’s home school as is.  For example, if a student receives a “B+”, that is the grade we report.
  • A student in the Calculus component receives a grade which is recorded on their University of Minnesota transcript.  We also report a “high school grade” to the student’s home school.   The high school grade is one full letter grade higher than the official college grade recorded.  For example, if you get a grade of “B” in UMTYMP Calculus, your University transcript will say “B”, but a high school grade of “A” is reported to your school.  Any college grade of “B+” or higher is reported as a high school grade of “A+” to schools. 

Please note: In the past we have only reported the high school grade back to a student's home school, but in many cases it would be advantageous to report the University grade, which would be weighted more than the high school grade. Conversely, some schools have been mistakenly weighted our high school grade as if it were a college grade.  We have been discussing this situation with some schools and districts, and our plan is to begin reporting both the high school and the college grades for Calculus 1-3 students back to students' home schools beginning in Fall 2023.

As noted in the next section, we have no control over how a school chooses to weight UMTYMP Calculus grades. 

This subsection last updated 6/5/2023. (Updated information about reporting grades to schools.)


Credit at a Student's School

Per Minnesota State Statute 120B.14, mathematics credit must be granted to UMTYMP students enrolled in public school, regardless of student grade-level or age, provided that the overall test scores on the standardized final examinations are sufficiently high (at least the 87th percentile) and the final course grade is a "B‑" or higher.  Most private schools will also grant credit, but you should discuss the program with your institution in order to see how they treat the granting of credit.  

Please Note: The state law affects only the granting of credit to UMTYMP students.  Neither UMTYMP nor the state statute control the local school's grading or GPA policies.  It is each individual school’s responsibility to determine how it uses UMTYMP grades in calculating a student's GPA.  If parents have questions regarding the school's grading policy or how items will be recorded on the middle/high school transcript, please contact your home school directly.


Academic Dishonesty

We encourage students to collaborate on assignments; however, homework should reflect a student’s own thoughts and ideas and be in their own words.  Cheating, or misrepresentation of student work, violates the University of Minnesota’s Academic Code of Conduct. This includes submitting an examination or assignment that is not a student’s own work.  Any act of scholastic dishonesty is regarded as a serious offense and can result in consequences up to and including expulsion from UMTYMP. 

Anecdotal evidence suggests that our standards in this regard are higher than the students experience in their regular courses.  To help students with the transition we describe to them what is appropriate and inappropriate behavior, but ultimately it is the responsibility of the student to act in an ethical manner.

Each student will receive a handout describing this policy at the beginning of the fall semester, which must be signed and returned to the MathCEP office.  Depending on the course, this may be done on paper or as an online form.


Academic Probation

UMTYMP may place a student on probation due to lack of attendance, low homework scores, low test/exam scores, or other issues.  Probation requires a learning agreement, which may include required attendance at study sessions, or other measures designed to increase the student’s chance for success.  If a student on probation does not improve, UMTYMP may require the student to withdraw from the program.

5. General Policies and Procedures

Program Contacts

Parents with questions, comments, or concerns may contact the UMTYMP office directly by emailing mathcep@umn.edu or by calling 612-625-2861.

Students will be given contact information for their Instructor and/or Teaching Assistant at the beginning of each semester.  Please retain this information for your student’s use.


Student Attendance

Our face-to-face time with students is limited in UMTYMP, making each hour of class very valuable.  Attendance is critical to success in UMTYMP, and missing any class sessions greatly reduces student success rates. Repeated absences may be grounds for dismissal from the program.  To reflect the importance of being in class, class participation counts for 10% of your final course grade.  Excused absences, such as observance of religious holidays, will not decrease your participation score.

Students who miss class for any reason are required to notify us prior to the date of absence.  If a student is ill, please report the absence before the start of class.

If a student is absent, you must make arrangements to turn in homework or reschedule exams, as appropriate. Makeup exams must be taken before the scheduled exam time, and be arranged two weeks prior to the absence.  In the case of sudden illness, a doctor’s note is required before the exam can be made up.  This is University policy.

Calculus I-III courses run on multiple days; for example, a student might attend Calculus I on Wednesdays, or on Thursdays.  If a student has a one-time conflict on their regular UMTYMP day, it may be possible to attend class on the other day during that week.  This option is for occasional use only, and should not be used on a regular basis.

To report an absence or request a one-time switch from one day to another, please email MathCEP at mathcep@umn.edu.


Textbooks

Textbook information can be found at on this webpage.

The cost of UMTYMP textbooks is included in the Program fees; we negotiate a volume discount with the publishers and pass the books on at cost.  In recent years the textbooks have been electronic.  If you wish to have a paper copy of the book, you can search online for a used copy of the textbook.


Calculators & Supplies

Students should bring blank paper and functioning pencils and erasers to class each week.  A folder for any handouts is also useful.

Calculators (all levels)

UMTYMP students are no longer required to purchase a graphing calculator, but must have an “equivalent” device for calculations.

Students should bring this device to every class and be ready to do computations as directed by their instructor. 

A scientific calculator with trigonometric functions will suffice; in some semesters functions to compute combinations and permutations (e.g. nCr and nPr buttons) could be helpful.  Common choices cost less than $15 and include the Casio fx-300ES Plus, TI-30XS, or an equivalent.  Students can also use a personal or school-issued tablet or Chromebook with GeoGebra or Desmos installed.  Before making any purchases for UMTYMP, you may wish to consult with your school to see if a certain device is required for science courses.

Geometry

During the geometry course in the second year of the program, students will need a straightedge, compass, protractor, and graph paper.


Snow Day Procedures

If UMTYMP class is cancelled due to inclement weather, notice will be posted on our main website, https://cse.umn.edu/mathcep. We generally try to make up missed classes very quickly. Notification of when classes are to be made up will also be listed on the main website.

UMTYMP classes will not meet if closings occur at either the University of Minnesota, or a majority of metro area schools. PLEASE NOTE: if metro area schools close due to extreme weather in the morning, but conditions have improved by the afternoon, we may still hold class.

If severe weather in your area makes travel hazardous (but UMTYMP has not been officially cancelled), please use discretion regarding class attendance. If you decide your child cannot attend class due to the weather, please make sure to follow our homework guidelines, and call the office to report the absence.


Withdrawal from UMTYMP

We understand that occasionally a student is not able to continue in UMTYMP.  We want students to succeed in their mathematics education and will work with families to figure out the best way forward for students who are leaving the program. 

After the given drop deadline for any given semester, we cannot offer refunds for any course or textbook fees.   You are encouraged to contact MathCEP with any further questions.

If a student plans to withdraw from UMTYMP at any time during the academic year, parents must send written documentation of the student’s withdrawal to the UMTYMP office. UMTYMP may also request a parent conference prior to the student’s withdrawal.


Lost & Found

Students are responsible for their personal possessions.  UMTYMP uses a variety of classrooms in several University buildings.  Items left behind, especially books and calculators, are not always retrievable—even the next morning.

If a student or instructor finds an item during or after an UMTYMP class, they may be brought to the MathCEP office (Vincent Hall, Room 4) lost & found box.


Individualized Education Plans

UMTYMP attempts to make reasonable accommodations for all students with special needs.  Parents should be aware that University guidelines and regulations related to special needs often differ from what can be expected at a student’s regular school.  UMTYMP is bound by University policies and works closely with the University’s Disability Resource Center to determine what accommodations are available and appropriate.

If your student has an IEP you should contact the UMTYMP office well before the semester starts so that there is time to make any arrangements.  In many cases our staff will refer you to the University’s Disability Resource Center, which may require documentation of your student’s special needs before approving accommodations.


Food & Health Concerns

Because our classes take place in the late afternoon, many students bring snacks to class.  This is generally fine, as long as students clean up after themselves and do not cause a distraction for the rest of the class. 

Allergies and Health Concerns

Please notify us as soon as possible of any health concerns which the UMTYMP staff should be aware of—for example, any allergies which could be triggered by food in the classroom.

6. Study Sessions & Additional Resources

UMTYMP Resources

UMTYMP has a variety of resources available to students who need extra help outside of class to learn a concept, finish a homework problem or study for an exam:

  • Instructors and TAs share email and/or phone numbers with students so they can be contacted with questions.  Certain hours of the week may be designated as “office hours,” especially for phone calls.  Please respect those schedules.
  • Students can post questions on their course’s Canvas website forum and get responses from other students and instructors.
  • Students may come to campus for in-person study sessions, which are described below. 

Study Sessions

Our instructional staff offers study sessions throughout the semester.  The location of and dates for study sessions will be given to students at the beginning of each semester.  On those scheduled dates, study sessions are held from 4:00pm until 5:00pm or 5:30pm.  These sessions used to be held on campus, but since 2020 they have generally been online.

Students who plan to attend but know they will arrive late (after 4:30pm), should contact the UMTYMP office (mathcep@umn.edu or 612-625-2861) before 4:00pm on the day of the study session.  We need to inform the Teaching Assistant or Workshop Leader of their late arrival.  If no students are present at 4:30pm, and the TA or Workshop Leader has not been notified to expect late students, the TA or Workshop Leader may leave.  (This is very rare, especially for Calculus I-III.)

Study sessions are for all students. Students may ask general or theoretical questions as well as homework questions.  The ideal approach to a study session is to consider it a cooperative learning effort. Do as much of your homework as you can prior to the session.  You may then request assistance at the study session with problems that were difficult or unclear, or share information with your peers.  For many students, study session attendance greatly enhances comprehension and improves grades.  All students can benefit and are encouraged to attend regularly.


Tutors

UMTYMP does not maintain a list of tutors and does not endorse any particular tutor or tutoring service.  When families contact us about tutoring for a student struggling in an UMTYMP class, we nearly always find it is a student who is not taking advantage of the resources described above: not contacting instructors or TAs for help, not posting on Canvas, and not attending study sessions.  We therefore highly encourage students and families to make use of those resources which are already available to them at no extra cost before considering a tutor.  Our instructors and TAs are also better situated to give help specifically for UMTYMP courses.

Please keep the following points in mind regarding tutors:

  • Students should find our courses challenging and difficult and may struggle at times.  However, if a student can only achieve a passing grade in UMTYMP with the continual assistance of an outside tutor, it may be worth discussing with our staff whether or not UMTYMP is an appropriate program for them.
     
  • There are many fantastic tutors in the Twin Cities area, including some who have been involved with UMTYMP in the past.  However, families should always be careful to verify any credentials.  We have seen instances of advertisements which exaggerate a tutor’s connections to UMTYMP: “former UMTYMP” students who were only in the program for a few semesters – or of whom we have no records; former clerical staff who advertise themselves as previous members of our instructional team; and so on.
     
  • UMTYMP instructional staff cannot accept extra payments for “extra instruction” outside of class; we are already paid to teach our students and an additional tutoring arrangement would be unethical.

Last updated on 6/7/22. (Minor updates about study sessions)

7. Other University Resources

University Registration

UMTYMP calculus students are registered through the University of Minnesota's College of Continuing and Professional Studies (CCAPS).  UMTYMP requires payment of course fees payment in order for students to be officially enrolled.  Because UMTYMP students do not pay University of Minnesota student fees (over $600/semester), they do not have full use of all University facilities, e.g. the Recreation Center.


University of Minnesota Transcripts

The UMTYMP office cannot process transcript requests.  Students in the Calculus component must request a transcript from the University of Minnesota Registrar’s Office.  Please visit their website for further details.  A recorded message is also available at 612-624-1111.


Letters of Recommendation

Requests for UMTYMP letters of recommendation should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the date when the letter is due.  See our Letters of Recommendation page for more information.

Please Note: Policy requires MathCEP to release letters only to the institutions to which the student is applying for admission or financial aid.  Letters will NOT be released to students or high school administrators.  If you have any questions, please contact our office.

8. Transportation Information

Parking and Drop-off Locations

(The information in this section applies to courses on the Twin Cities campus.  Families in Rochester or Duluth should contact their local UMTYMP administrators for information about those campuses.)

Campus maps are available online.

UMTYMP courses meet on the East Bank of the University of Minnesota.  The approved location to drop off and pick up students is the Northrop Turnaround, which is directly east of Northrop Memorial Auditorium

Parking or waiting in the turnaround is not allowed.  Parking is available in the Church Street Garage, the Washington Ave Ramp, the 4th Street Ramp or the East River Road Garage.  As of 6/7/22, the current parking rate at University of Minnesota parking ramps, garages and lots is $1.00 per hour during UMTYMP class times.  (Rates are considerably higher earlier in the day, during "peak" hours.) However, prices will vary, especially if special events are taking place.  See the University's Parking Facilities page for more information and the locations of the each ramp. 

The MathCEP office understands that the limited number of drop-off places is a source of frustration and concern, but we have no control over parking and transportation on the University campus.  You may contact the University's Parking and Transportation Services at 612-626-PARK if you have questions or concerns.

Carpools and Buses

Many UMTYMP families arrange carpools, and some parents arrange for buses which run from certain schools or geographic areas to the UMN campus and back.  When you register for courses, you have an opportunity to "opt-in" to share your information with other families who are interested in carpools or buses.


Last updated on 6/7/22. (Updated parking rates, links, and carpool information.)

9. Rules & Classroom Behavior

Rules & Classroom Behavior

UMTYMP supports activities that enhance and enrich classroom instruction and expects all students to behave maturely and responsibly.  The following rules of conduct outline the Program’s expectations.  UMTYMP faculty, workshop leaders, and teaching assistants will immediately report all violations of the conduct rules to the UMTYMP administration.  UMTYMP refers students engaged in unacceptable behavior to an UMTYMP administrator assigned to handle guidance, counseling and behavioral matters.  The administrator will place the student on probation and monitor their behavior.  Disruptive or disorderly behaviors that interfere with classroom instruction and/or the educational activities of UMTYMP will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and could result in a suspension or dismissal from UMTYMP.  Continued unacceptable behavior could also result in dismissal, even if the behavior is not disruptive toward other students.  Examples of unacceptable behaviors include:

  1. We will not permit threats to, physical abuse of, physical aggression toward, or harassment of UMTYMP staff, students, and/or faculty. Students will demonstrate respect in words and actions to other students, staff, and faculty. 
  2. Students will not cheat or misrepresent their work.  This includes submitting an examination or assignment that is not a student’s own work, aiding and/or encouraging another student in an act of scholastic dishonesty.  This includes sharing one's homework solutions with another student. Scholastic dishonesty is defined as “the violation of rules under which an examination is given or homework is assigned.” While we encourage students to collaborate on assignments, homework should reflect a student’s own thoughts and ideas and be in their own words.
  3. Students will arrive to class, and return from breaks, on time.
  4. During breaks, students will demonstrate responsible behavior.  Running in halls, unnecessary use of the elevator, throwing debris and food, spraying water, spilling pop on floors, screaming and disrupting other classes, damage to, theft, destruction of, or unauthorized use or possession of property belonging to the University are NOT tolerated.
  5. Students must dispose of food or beverage debris in wastebaskets.  If students abuse the privilege of bringing food into classrooms, we will revoke the privilege.
  6. Students will keep their electronic devices silenced at all times, and stowed away except while being used for tasks related to mathematics. Texting, watching videos, listening to music, playing chess, and other such behaviors are not permitted in class and may result in the confiscation of the device.
  7. While in class, students will refrain from reading material that is not related to the course (e.g. novels, webcomics, manga, etc.).

Please Note:

UMTYMP students in the Calculus component are registered as University students and as such are also required to follow the Standards of Student Conduct of the University of Minnesota.

(Last Updated 6/5/23; minor changes to policies)

10. Family Contract

Dear Parents and Students,

UMTYMP is a commitment that requires time and effort similar to that of a varsity sport. Our intent with this contract is to ensure that both students and parents/guardians are aware of the UMTYMP standards and expectations, as well as their respective responsibilities, and that parents will provide the necessary support to enable students to succeed.

Student Responsibilities: 

  • UMTYMP is a major priority in my schedule. I will attend each scheduled class, as attendance is critical to my progress.
  • If I cannot attend a class for any reason, I will work with my classmates and instructional staff to complete assigned work.
  • I will complete all assigned work, recognizing that this may involve more than 10 hours of weekly study time.
  • I will contact my course instructor and/or teaching assistant if I have questions concerning coursework content, or grading.
  • I will maintain a “B” grade or better. If I do not, and am placed on probationary status, I will complete my learning agreement assignments to improve my grade.
  • I understand that although UMTYMP is offered at a post-secondary institution, due to the nature of the program I waive the rights offered to me under the FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) guidelines and agree that the program has the right to disclose information about my performance and grades to my parents/guardians, including by email.  In particular, my grade report may be emailed at the end of each semester, to my email address and the primary and secondary contact addresses provided during registration.
  • I understand that scholastic dishonesty (see “Rules of Classroom Behavior”) is considered a serious offense and may result in dismissal from UMTYMP.

Parent Responsibilities:

  • I will discuss time management with my student and review their academic-year activities before they accept a position in the class.
  • I will ensure my student has transportation to UMTYMP classes and exam sessions.
  • If my student cannot attend a class for any reason I will notify the UMTYMP office in advance.
  • I will help my student prioritize their time for successful completion of weekly assignments.
  • I may withdraw my student from UMTYMP at any time. I will contact the UMTYMP office to discuss any plans to withdraw my student from the Program, prior to submitting a request for withdrawal.
  • I will pay all Program costs and book fees in accordance with the fee schedule. I understand that I must pay the fees for the academic year when my student enters the Program. I understand that I am responsible for all fees, paid or outstanding, regardless of my student’s attendance, progress, or withdrawal from the Program.
  • I agree that MathCEP has the right to photograph my student for promotional materials.

Last updated on 6/7/22. (Minor edits to student responsibilities.)

11. Registration & Financial Information

Registration

Registration links and instructions are emailed to students and families, typically in June (for the fall semester) and December (for the spring semester).  Students who miss the registration deadline may forfeit their spot in the class, but can petition the UMTYMP office to request late registration.

Payments Due

The fees below are valid for the 2022-23 academic year and include the cost of the textbook for each course.  Fall payments are generally higher than the spring because the fall tuition includes the textbook and other administrative fees.  Most courses have one book per year, but students in Geometry / Precalculus use a different book each semester.

Date Action Algebra Geometry / Precalculus Calculus 1 Calculus 2 Calculus 3
6/26/2023

Register and pay for fall semester courses online using a link emailed by the office.
 

$705 $705 $800 $800 $800
12/31/2022

Register and pay for spring semester courses online using a link emailed by the office.

$580 $645 $675 $675 $675
  Total Course Fees: $1,285 $1,350 $1,475 $1,475 $1,475

Scholarships

UMTYMP offers a limited number of scholarships at all levels of the Program.  Their purpose is to provide partial or full support for students who have demonstrated the ability to do well in the Program and have genuine financial need. The first round of decisions will be made according to Minnesota state guidelines shown below. Due to reduced availability of scholarship funds, eligibility on the table below does not guarantee you will receive a scholarship.  Students requesting a scholarship must request it at time of registration.

The amount of the award will be based on several factors, including the requested amount, the evidence supporting this request, and Program funds available.  Some allowances may be made based on individual circumstances.

All scholarship requests must include a letter providing the following information:

  1. Amount of the request.
  2. Past academic performance of the student, and plans for the current year.
  3. Financial reasons for the request.  These should be stated clearly and concisely.  Financial documentation must be attached to the letter.  A copy of your most recent federal income tax form is required.  Special financial circumstances or situations should be noted.
  4. Additional information that might be helpful, such as health concerns, unemployment, etc.

All application material may be either scanned and uploaded to https://z.umn.edu/umtymp-scholarships or mailed to our office.  It is recommended that Social Security numbers be blacked out before scanning or mailing.  If you are sending the application by mail, the address is:

UMTYMP Scholarship
4 Vincent Hall
206 Church St. SE
Minneapolis, MN  55455

Each approved request will be valid for 1 year.  Subsequent requests are required for additional years. Award notifications are e-mailed to the primary contact on file in the UMTYMP office.

Percentage of Program Course Fees/Books that Scholarship Funds May Cover

Gross  Household Income

Family Size

 

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

<$26,436

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

$26,437-$33,264

75

100

100

100

100

100

100

$33,265-$40,104

50

75

100

100

100

100

100

$40,105-$46,932

25

50

75

100

100

100

100

$46,933-$53,760

0%

25

50

75

100

100

100

$53,761-$60,588

 

0%

25

50

75

100

100

$60,589-$67,428

 

 

0%

25

50

75

100

$67,429-$74,256

 

 

 

0%

25

50

75

$74,257-$81,084

 

 

 

 

0%

25

50

$81,085-$87,912

 

 

 

 

 

0%

25

>$87,913

 

 

 

 

 

 

0%

For each additional household member add $6,828

 


 

This section last updated 6/4/2022. (Updated fees for 2022-23)

12. Printable Forms

Fill out this form and submit it to your school's counselor as soon as possible.

A reference sheet for phone numbers and other contact information.