Can You Use CAS Calculators at UMich?

An unofficial policy checker to help you determine if your calculator is likely to be permitted in your class at the University of Michigan.

UMich Calculator Policy Checker

What does “can you use CAS calculators UMich” Mean?

The question of whether you can use a CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculator at the University of Michigan is a critical one for many students. Unlike basic or scientific calculators, CAS-enabled devices can perform symbolic manipulations, such as solving algebraic equations, finding derivatives, and simplifying complex expressions. This powerful functionality raises concerns about academic integrity, leading to varied and specific policies across different departments and courses. There is no single university-wide rule; the answer almost always depends on your specific college, department, and even the professor teaching the course.

The General UMich Calculator Policy

At the University of Michigan, there isn’t a blanket “yes” or “no” for CAS calculators. The decision is decentralized. The LSA Mathematics department, for example, is famously strict, often prohibiting any calculator on exams to test foundational concepts. In contrast, the College of Engineering may be more permissive, recognizing calculators as essential tools for complex problem-solving. The core principle is ensuring a level playing field and assessing students on their understanding of the material, not their ability to operate a powerful device.

Policy by Department (General Guidelines)

This table provides a general overview and is not a substitute for official course information.

Department/College	Typical CAS Calculator Policy	Reasoning
LSA Mathematics	Often Not Allowed, especially in 100/200-level courses.	Exams are designed to test manual computation and conceptual understanding. Many proficiency tests explicitly forbid calculators.
College of Engineering	Generally Allowed, but check syllabus.	Focus is on applying concepts to complex problems where calculators are a practical tool. Some professors still restrict them.
LSA Chemistry/Physics	Varies; Graphing (Non-CAS) often preferred.	Policies are mixed. Basic graphing calculators are usually safe, but CAS might be forbidden to prevent storing information.
Ross School of Business	Varies; Financial calculators may be required, CAS often restricted.	Focus on financial functions, not symbolic algebra. Check course requirements carefully.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A First-Year Math Student

• Inputs: Calculator Type: CAS, College: LSA, Course: MATH 115
• Result: Not Allowed. Introductory calculus courses in the LSA Math department almost universally prohibit CAS calculators on exams to ensure students master foundational skills.

Example 2: An Upper-Level Engineering Student

• Inputs: Calculator Type: CAS, College: Engineering, Course: MECHENG 350
• Result: Likely Allowed, but Verify. Many upper-level engineering courses permit CAS calculators as problems are more complex. However, the final say is always with the instructor and the official course syllabus.

How to Use This UMich Calculator Policy Checker

This tool provides an educated guess based on common policies. Here’s how to interpret its results:

1. Select Calculator Type: Choose whether you have a CAS, a standard graphing calculator, or a basic scientific one.
2. Select Your College: Your primary college (e.g., LSA, Engineering) is the biggest factor.
3. Enter Course (Optional): Adding a course like “MATH 115” or “EECS 280” helps narrow the search, as rules can be course-specific.
4. Interpret the Result: The tool will give you a status of “Allowed,” “Not Allowed,” or “Conditional/Check Syllabus.” Always treat this as a strong suggestion, not a guarantee. The course syllabus is the ultimate source of truth.

Key Factors That Affect UMich Calculator Policy

• Course Level: Introductory courses (100-level) are far more likely to have restrictions than advanced (400-level) courses.
• Departmental Culture: The LSA Mathematics department is historically the strictest. Engineering departments tend to be more lenient.
• Instructor’s Discretion: The professor has the final say. Always read your syllabus and listen for in-class announcements.
• Exam Type: Proctored, in-person exams have more stringent rules than take-home assignments where software like MATLAB might be used anyway.
• CAS vs. Graphing: A “no graphing calculators” rule is different from a “no CAS” rule. A TI-84 (non-CAS) might be fine when a TI-Nspire CAS is not.
• Stored Information: The ability to store notes or formulas is a major reason why many advanced calculators are banned, regardless of CAS functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a TI-Nspire CX II CAS allowed in MATH 115 at UMich?

Almost certainly not for exams. The LSA Mathematics department’s policy for introductory calculus focuses on manual calculation skills. You should plan on not using any calculator for your exams.

2. What is the difference between a CAS and a regular graphing calculator?

A standard graphing calculator (like a TI-84) can graph functions and compute numerical answers. A CAS calculator (like a TI-89 or Nspire CAS) can also manipulate algebraic expressions, solve for variables, and perform calculus functions symbolically.

3. I’m in the College of Engineering. Can I just assume my CAS calculator is fine?

While the policy is generally more relaxed in Engineering, you should not assume. Always check the syllabus for each course. Some professors, even in Engineering, have their own specific rules.

4. What happens if I’m caught using a prohibited calculator on an exam?

This is considered academic misconduct and can lead to serious penalties, including a zero on the exam, failing the course, or even suspension, depending on the college’s honor code.

5. Where can I find the official calculator policy for my class?

The course syllabus is the single most reliable and official source. If it’s not stated there, you must ask your professor or a Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) directly.

6. My calculator can store notes. Is that a problem?

Yes, this is often a primary concern. Even if CAS is allowed, calculators with significant data storage capabilities may be banned or require a memory reset before an exam.

7. Does the Central Student Government (CSG) offer calculators?

Yes, CSG has a rental program, primarily for TI-84 graphing calculators, which are widely accepted. This can be a great option if your personal calculator is not allowed.

8. Are calculators allowed on math placement exams?

Generally, no. Placement and proficiency exams, like the A-Level proficiency test, explicitly forbid the use of calculators to assess fundamental skills.