Calculus-Based Statistics - Probability Theory

Probability Theory - also called Calculus-Based Statistics - is the "upper level" statistics course that uses Calculus to explore the topics of elementary statistics.

This course is a gateway course for Data Science, Economics, and any discipline that utilizes data - that really means ALL JOBS these days!!

The curriculum for our Probability Theory course is absolutely wonderful, exploring the topics of beginning statistics with a fresh approach, devoid of the "here's the next formula and here's what it means" commonly found in traditional textbook courses.

Our Distance Calculus Probabality Theory course is highly experimentation-based, so you will run simulations in either LiveMath or Mathematica, and look at the topics empirically, trying to determine what is going on with the mathematics like a good scientist would - using observation and deductive reasoning.

Probability Theory covers the all of the topics in a basic non-major Statistics course. You do not need to have taken "baby" Statistics prior to taking Probability Theory - but you will need Calculus II under your belt.

Below are some videos on our Probability Theory Course:




Probability Theory Course






Preparing for Data Science










Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

Catherine M.★★★★★
Posted: Apr 5, 2020
Courses Completed: Calculus I
Calculus I from Distance Calculus was wonderful! I took AB Calculus in high school, but I didn't take the AP Calc exam. Instead I took Calculus I with Distance Calculus, and it was so much better! It was a little review of topics, but not really. I really understood calculus when I finished!
Transferred Credits To: University of Chicago
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!
Rachel H.★★★★★
Posted: Jan 15, 2021
Courses Completed: Probability Theory
Dr. Curtis gave helpful and timely feedback, and made the teaching videos very engaging! The course model and associated software was easy to acclimate to.
Transferred Credits To: Cedarville 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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