Calculus
Calculus is a fundamental part of a math education and can be applied to many areas of life. Please read the information below to better understand the calculus offerings and resources available to you.
Sequences | Placement | Preparation | Calculus Café
Sequences
The Department of Mathematics offers four calculus sequences, with different entry points. We recommend that students do not skip any calculus courses, and that students start a sequence at the beginning unless they already have credit (such as AP or transfer credit) for prerequisite courses.
The sequences are:
- MATH 1100. A one-semester survey of calculus that does not require knowledge of trigonometry. Includes both differential and integral calculus an introductory level. Designed for students who do not have a need for further study in calculus. No background in trigonometry is required.
- MATH 1200-1201. MATH 1200 is a slower-paced course that begins with a three-week review of algebra and trigonometry. Students who only intend to take one year of calculus can take either MATH 1200-1201 or MATH 1300-1301.
- MATH 1300-1301–2300. MATH 1300 is an accelerated course intended for especially well-prepared students who intend to take mathematics classes beyond one year of calculus. Students who intend to take a full calculus sequence or intend to take math courses beyond calculus should take MATH 1300-1301-2300 or 1300-1301-2310. Either of these sequences are strongly recommended for students who are planning to major in mathematics or a field of science or engineering in which calculus-based courses need to be taken in the sophomore year.
- MATH 1300-1301-2310. MATH 1300 is an accelerated course intended for especially well-prepared students who intend to take mathematics classes beyond one year of calculus. Students who intend to take a full calculus sequence or intend to take math courses beyond calculus should take MATH 1300-1301-2300 or 1300-1301-2310. Either of these sequences are strongly recommended for students who are planning to major in mathematics or a field of science or engineering in which calculus-based courses need to be taken in the sophomore year.
The courses in these sequences cover similar material, but at different rates, and therefore overlap in content and credit. Students should not switch from one sequence to another without approval from the department as this will result in a loss of credit.
Students who do not feel comfortable with the calculus preparation material provided above can first take MATH 1005, a semester-long course that covers the prerequisite algebra and trigonometry necessary for MATH 1200 and 1300.
Placement
We strongly recommend that students enter a calculus sequence at the beginning (MATH 1200 or 1300) unless they have appropriate AP or transfer credit. There will be a two-week period at the beginning of the fall semester when students can change from one level of calculus to another. Students should consult with their instructors and their advisers for assistance during this period.
Students with a weak background in algebra and/or trigonometry should enroll in MATH 1005: Pre-calculus Mathematics, prior to taking MATH 1200 or MATH 1300. A score of 600 or below on the MATH 2 SAT Subject test is one indication of a problematic background for calculus.
AP Scores
First-year students with test scores of 5 on the Calculus BC Advanced Placement examination, thereby earning AP credit for 1300-1301, may choose to enroll in 2500-2501. The combination of 2500-2501 is a blend of multivariable calculus and linear algebra, with an emphasis on rigorous proofs. These courses are alternatives to MATH 2300 and MATH 2600 for students with a strong interest in mathematics.
The AP calculus credit policy and appropriate starting points for students with AP credit are outlined in the table below:
| A student with a score of | On the | Receives | Of credit for | And may be placed in | Or an earlier course |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | AP Calculus AB exam | 4 hours | MATH 1300 | MATH 1301 | MATH 1200 MATH 1201 MATH 1300 |
| 3 or 4 with subscore 5 | AP Calculus BC exam AB portion | 4 hours | MATH 1300 | MATH 1301 | MATH 1200 MATH 1201 MATH 1300 |
| 5 | AP Calculus BC exam | 8 hours | MATH 1300 and MATH 1301 | MATH 2300 or MATH 2500 | MATH 1200 MATH 1201 MATH 1300 MATH 1301 MATH 2200 |
Preparation
Below is review material on algebra and trigonometry that can be used in advance of beginning a calculus sequence.
- Topics for Algebra and Trigonometry Review
- Study Material
- Typical Problems:
- Sample Tests:
Calculus Café
Join us to study calculus over coffee! The Calculus Café is a space for drop-in calculus tutoring with graduate students.
Calculus Café is held:
- Monday and Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. in SC3211
- Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. in Commons 107
- Thursday from 5-7 p.m. in SC3211
Note: Calculus Café does not meet during Thanksgiving week or on December 5.