It's required now, at least (1) course.
I finished up Intermediate Algebra this past few weeks, and the first attempt at it last Summer I failed with a 64; then I was made to re-take the same course again and passed with a 94 this past March.
If you need Books or CDs on the course, send me a PM I may be able to help you on that; all my text/lab books and CDs here.