As a requirement for graduation, Blue Mountain College requires students to demonstrate proficiency in three areas of the core including English, Mathematics and Computers. English Proficiency: Students demonstrate proficiency in English by earning at least a grade of “B” in both semesters of Freshman English Composition or by passing the English Proficiency Examination. The English Proficiency Examination requires the student to write a well-organized essay within a time frame of 1 and ½ hours. The student selects from four given prompts to devise a thesis to support with details, examples, or reasons. Essays are scored by two members of the Language and Literature Department. Students of junior classification are required to take the examination if they earned a grade lower than “B” in either semester of Freshman English Composition.   Mathematics Proficiency: Students demonstrate proficiency in Mathematics by earning at least a grade “C” in the mathematics course required in the core. The Mathematics Proficiency Examination is a 20 problem test on basic skills in mathematics. Students are required to receive tutoring in the CAL prior to registering to take the examination. A study guide is provided when the student attends tutoring in the CAL.  The test is given by a member of the mathematics faculty. Any student who scores below a “C” in MA 105 Contemporary Mathematics, MA 110 College Algebra, or MA 140 Elementary Statistics is required to take the examination.   Computer Proficiency: Students demonstrate proficiency in Computers by either passing a course in computers or by passing the Computer Proficiency Examination. Students choose the means of meeting proficiency in this area. The Computer Proficiency Examination consists of 60 multiple choice questions on Microsoft Office and 40 points based on “hands-on” performance at the computer. The test is given by a member of the Business faculty.