Calculus-Based Statistics with Calculus 2 Prerequisite

What are the course prerequisites for Calculus-Based Statistics = Probability Theory?

The only prerequisite for Calculus-Based Statistics is: Calculus II (Calculus 2) (and recommended Multivariable Calculus!)

As the name suggests, this is not the lower "baby statistics" course without Calculus. You need a very firm understanding of differential and integral Calculus to be able to engage Probability Theory.

Most of the topics in Probability Theory course are also found in the lower Statistics course, but the higher Probability Theory course uses derivatives and integrals to analyze the probability and statistics concepts and computations.

Multivariable Calculus is a good idea before Probability Theory, because some topics in Probability Theory use partial derivatives and multiple integrals - topics in Multivariable Calculus. While Multivariable Calculus is recommended, it is not required - learning these two differential and integral calculus constructions is not that difficult in the context of Probability Theory topics. So we keep Multivariable Calculus as a recommended course only.

So, for those students wishing to get ahead and get Probability Theory in their completed column in their academic plan, you do need to complete Calculus II first, which means also completing Calculus I first.

Here is a video about our Probability Theory course via Distance Calculus @ Roger Williams University:

Probability Theory Course

Multivariable Calculus & High School

After AP Calculus for High School Students

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

Daniel Marasco★★★★★

Posted: Jan 13, 2020

Courses Completed: Multivariable Calculus

This course was more affordable than many, and the flexible format was terrific for me, as I am inclined to work very diligently on tasks on my own. It could be dangerous for a person who requires external discipline more, but it works well for self-starters, allowing you to prioritize when you have other pressing work. I was a full time teacher adding a math certification, and this course allowed me to master the math while working around my teaching schedule and fitting work into moments here and there when I had time. I was able to transfer the credits to Montana State University, Bozeman for my teaching internship program without a hitch. The instructors were all very helpful and patient, even when I failed to see a ridiculously simple solution on one problem after 20 emails back and forth. Overall, I was more pleased with my experience in this class than I was with any of my other 9 courses.

Transferred Credits To: Montana State University, Bozeman

Trevor★★★★★

Posted: Jun 19, 2025

Courses Completed: Calculus I

POSITIVES:
One of the best math classes I have ever taken. The lessons made the failures of my previous professors very apparent. In a few short minutes, things that I used to struggle with just clicked. This professor is top notch and really wants you to understand how to use the material.
NEGATIVES:
The SOFTWARE is extremely frustrating. Even after taking the time to learn, there are countless glitches. You learn to work around them, and overall, the software makes the math convenient, but its failures are sorely felt throughout the course. Make sure you save often as it crashes regularly, especially with graphs.
The assignments are easy enough but some of them don't line up with the taught material. Be prepared to do some of your own independent research to get a deeper understanding of why things are the way they are.

Transferred Credits To: US Army

Abdul J.★★★★★

Posted: Jun 21, 2020

Courses Completed: Applied Calculus

This was the best class! So much more interesting doing the computer math than a boring lecture class. Diane was so responsive and helpful. I recommend this course.

Transferred Credits To: Villanova University

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

John ★★★★★

Posted: Nov 20, 2025

Courses Completed: Precalculus, Applied Calculus

Great course. Professor Curtis and the TAs graded quickly and gave really helpful feedback that made the class feel smooth and manageable. Definitely recommend it.

Transferred Credits To: Binghamton University (School of Managment)