Our Probability Theory course differs from a classroom/textbook-based course in that we employ Mastery Learning so that you complete all assignments at 100% to assure competancy, as well as our curriculum shifting the course to a laboratory-style course, where theorem/lemma/proof type exposition is replaced by running experiments in Mathematica as you would in a science laboratory to empirically deduce the concepts and behaviors of Probability Theory, both solvable (classically) via hand-based techiques, as well as studying Probability Theory that can only be solved and investigated graphically and numerically using a computer. The Probability Theory curriculum is highly visual and based upon observations of experiments run in Mathematica or LiveMath.

Calculus-Based Statistics - Probability Theory - Distance Calculus Course Information

Calculus-Based Statistics course can best be described as a "first course in the study of Statistics and Probablity Theory using Calculus".

This course has many names, all being equivalent:
  • Probablity Theory
  • Calculus-Based Statistics
  • Second Course in Statistics for STEM


Our Probability Theory course differs from a classroom/textbook-based course in that we employ Mastery Learning so that you complete all assignments at 100% to assure competancy, as well as our curriculum shifting the course to a laboratory-style course, where theorem/lemma/proof type exposition is replaced by running experiments in Mathematica as you would in a science laboratory to empirically deduce the concepts and behaviors of Probability Theory, both solvable (classically) via hand-based techiques, as well as studying Probability Theory that can only be solved and investigated graphically and numerically using a computer. The Probability Theory curriculum is highly visual and based upon observations of experiments run in Mathematica or LiveMath.


At Distance Calculus, we call our "Calculus-Based Statistics" course as Probability Theory - DMAT 311 - 3 credits.

Below are some links for further information about the Calculus-Based Statistics course via Distance Calculus @ Roger Williams University.






Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

Cristian Mojica★★★★★
Posted: Jan 8, 2021
Courses Completed: Probability Theory
A fantastic course! I was able to complete it in about half a year (with a few gaps) alongside other coursework I was completing. There are no deadlines except the one-year mark after registering, so you work at your own rate and schedule.

Probability Theory is required for me to apply to Master's programs in Statistics, so I was glad when I found Distance Calculus. While the course was slightly less difficult than I originally expected, there were parts that definitely slowed me down and made me think. (Also, although calculus is not everywhere in the course, it is everywhere in normal and exponential variables and beyond, so make sure to review derivatives and integrals (single and double)!) I used Mathematica for my software, and it helped speed along calculations and proved to be the perfect stage and tool for this material. I think visual learners will absolutely revel in how the material is presented in this course. (I know I did!) As there is plenty of writing and calculation to do, you have many opportunities to develop and strengthen your voice as a mathematician. The modern format of 80% electronic notebook work and 20% handwritten work is an excellent mixture for studying probability theory and grasping its core ideas. Dr. Curtis is clear in his answers to any questions and concerns you may have and is highly responsive to email and chat, and to responses you leave in your notebooks. He truly wants to help you and to see you succeed, and he is always on your side.

I highly recommend Probability Theory with Distance Calculus!
Email: comojica@ucdavis.edu
Anonymous★★★★
Posted: Jan 12, 2020
Courses Completed: Calculus I, Calculus II
I needed to brush up on my high school calculus and finally take Calc II before starting a graduate program that needed them as prereqs. This was perfect choice to fit in that summer. Got done at fast pace that I wanted and needed. Also had added bonus of one on one feedback and help when needed. Video lessons were better than many on campus instructors in large lecture settings. Recommend for anyone needing to satisfy prereqs at home institution.
Transferred Credits To: University of Michigan
Brian Finley★★★★★
Posted: Jan 12, 2020
Courses Completed: Calculus II
I took Calculus II through Distance Calculus and can't recommend it enough. Being able to take the course at my own pace while I was working full time was tremendously helpful, especially since I hadn't taken a math course for 5 years prior. The instruction was excellent and the software they used to teach the course was intuitive and facilitated the learning process very well. This calc II class enabled me to take multivariable calc, linear algebra, and real analysis at Harvard University's extension school, which ultimately qualified me for the economics PhD program that I will graduate from next year. 8 years on, I'm still grateful to Professor Curtis and Distance Calculus.
M M.★★★★★
Posted: Feb 8, 2026
Courses Completed: Precalculus, Calculus I
The courses were excellent. Very flexible and engaging and the platform offers a lot of upper-level courses. Dr. Curtis is an outstanding professor and very responsive. I would take again.
Transferred Credits To: None yet
Tanja B.★★★★★
Posted: Jan 28, 2026
Courses Completed: Calculus I
After two failed attempts at my university, this course helped me understand Calculus. The live maths tool along with Dr. Curtis were especially helpful, allowing me to visualize concepts and expand my understanding. The explanations were clear, the examples practical, and I could learn at my own pace, which built my confidence. Thank you.
Transferred Credits To: University of Namibia
Henry F.★★★★★
Posted: Dec 18, 2025
Courses Completed: Differential Equations
Transferred Credits To: Saint Joseph High School
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