Calculus Preparation and Placement

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Calculus Placement Policy

The Department recommends that students do not skip any calculus courses, and that students start a calculus sequence at the beginning unless they have credit (possibly AP or transfer credit) for calculus courses.

Students who just need a one semester survey of calculus should consider Math 140. The regular calculus sequences are Math 150a-b-170-175 and Math 155a-b-175, which cover the same material but at different speeds. Students with a 5 on the Calculus BC Advanced Placement exam may consider the advanced sequence Math 205a-b as well as one of the regular sequences.

  1. Calculus placement policy (includes description of AP credit)
  2. More information on Math 205a-b

Calculus Preparation

This section contains review material on algebra and trigonometry. Students can use this material for review before beginning a calculus sequence (Math 150a-b-170-175 or Math 155a-b-175).

  1. Topics for Algebra and Trigonometry Review
  2. Study Material
  3. Typical Problems:
    1. Algebra problems and their solutions
    2. Trigonometry problems and their solutions
  4. Sample Tests:
    1. Exam I
    2. Exam II
    3. Answers to each Exam

Calculus Textbooks

Calculus Course Descriptions

This section contains detailed descriptions of the material covered by the usual first-year calculus courses.

  1. Overview of Math 150a-b-170-175 and Math 155a-b-175 sequences
  2. Credit overlap for calculus courses.
  3. Math 150a
  4. Math 150b
  5. Math 155a
  6. Math 155b

For further information, contact the Calculus Coordinator for the Department of Mathematics, Dr. John Rafter, john.rafter at vanderbilt.edu, or the Director of Undergraduate Studies.

Updated GS, May 21, 2010