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

Bradley R.★★★★★

Posted: May 18, 2025

Courses Completed: Probability Theory

A great way to learn probability theory through visualizations, code, and math. Rather than just solving equations through pencil and paper, this course helped me to see how how probability distributions form and behavior through simulations and visuals. I would recommend this course to anyone looking for a way a more interactive way to learn mathematics and at their own pace.

Transferred Credits To: none yet

Louisa A.★★★★★

Posted: Dec 9, 2019

Courses Completed: Calculus I

My microeconomics class required college-level calculus as a prerequisite, and I didn't want to wait until next year to take the class. So, I took DC's Calculus I class over the summer, so I could register for econ when I got back to school this fall. I actually think I got more help taking the class online than I would have in the huge lecture classes here. Prof. Curtis was really clear in explaining concepts and talking me through the topics that I was having trouble with. It took me about 10 weeks to finish the class, which didn't seem too long and didn't feel rushed. My friends who are in calculus now, trying to finish the prereq, are pretty jealous!

Quinn M.★★★★★

Posted: May 17, 2025

Courses Completed: Linear Algebra

Online learning for math is certainly a different way of learning than most are used to in school - However, Distance Calculus does a great job of providing valuable feedback and tips on each assignment, and the professor is always available for detailed instruction and help. Tools like Mathematica provide an environment for learning with a lot more freedom and opportunity for exploration of concepts than the regular classroom setting.

Transferred Credits To: Chaminade University of Honolulu

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