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:
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:
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:
- DMAT 253 - Calculus I - 4 credits
- DMAT 263 - Calculus II - 4 credits
- DMAT 355 - Multivariable Calculus - 4 credits
- DMAT 321 - Differential Equations - 3 credits
- DMAT 335 - Linear Algebra - 3 credits
- DMAT 311 - Probability Theory - 3 credits
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Distance Calculus - Student Reviews
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
Posted: Dec 8, 2020
Courses Completed: Differential Equations
This course may be more difficult than your average differential equations course, which better prepares you to use these skills in your degree. The self-learning does make learning some of the concepts challenging, but you get the help you need to understand these concepts.
Transferred Credits To: Johns Hopkins University
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)
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
Posted: Dec 18, 2025
Courses Completed: Differential Equations
Transferred Credits To: Saint Joseph High School
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.
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
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