Data Science Math Preparation - Distance Calculus Information from Distance Calculus

Data Science can best be described as a "a cross between a programmer and a mathematician/statistician".

This topic has many names, all being equivalent:
  • Data Science
  • Applied Statistics
  • Programmer+Mathematician
  • Big Data

If you wish to become a Data Scientist, you will need to develop both strong programming skills, and have a very strong mathematics background.

Distance Calculus @ Roger Williams University can help prepare you for a study of Data Science - either for a degree in Data Science or perhaps a certificate - by helping you complete the core mathematics courses necessary for starting a Data Science degree or certificate.

There are no short-cuts you can do with going into Data Science. You just can't learn Python and then pretend you are a Data Scientist because you watch a few videos on running data sets through Python! You NEED a very strong mathematics background that includes ALL of the following courses:







Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

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
Aiden B.★★★★
Posted: May 6, 2025
Courses Completed: Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus
Is the course perfect? No. However, it was by far the best option available. I have learned quite a few things not normally taught in a Calculus course. However, the course lacks a lot of paper solving and integrating, which is to be expected in an online course.
Hannah J.★★★★★
Posted: Apr 30, 2020
Courses Completed: Probability Theory
Probability Theory was a great course. Very very thorough. I thought it would never end :). I was very prepared for my coursework in economics. Excellent refereshher of derivatives and integrals - really forced me to remember that stuff from freshman cal.
Transferred Credits To: Boston 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)
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