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Do You Need Multivariable Calculus for Linear Algebra - Distance Calculus

Short answer: No, you do not need to take Multivariable Calculus before you take Linear Algebra.

Distance Calculus - Freshman Courses
Freshman Mathematics Courses
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Credit
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Distance Calculus - Soph Courses
Sophomore Mathematics Courses
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Distance Calculus - Lower Courses
General Mathematics Courses
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Credit
Hours
Distance Calculus - Math Major Courses
Mathematics Major Courses
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Credit
Hours
You may take these course concurrently. They do not share any course material at all.

We recommend to students that they consider completing Multivariable Calculus first, then engaging Linear Algebra, but it is not at all necessary to complete these courses in that order. Many students find great success by taking both courses together, or taking Linear Algebra first, then completing Multivariable Calculus.

Some students appreciate the "cognitive break" that Linear Algebra provides from the study of calculus, and returing to Multivariable Calculus after completing Linear Algebra is sometimes a nice walk through the sophomore level subjects.
Here are some videos to explore our Multivariable Calculus and Linear Algebra courses.



Linear Algebra Course Introduction

Multivariable Course





Calculus 2 Introduction



CourseInfoCourse Information

FAQFrequent Questions

Distance Calculus - Freshman Courses
Freshman Mathematics Courses
Semester
Credit
Hours
Distance Calculus - Soph Courses
Sophomore Mathematics Courses
Semester
Credit
Hours
Distance Calculus - Lower Courses
General Mathematics Courses
Semester
Credit
Hours
Distance Calculus - Math Major Courses
Mathematics Major Courses
Semester
Credit
Hours




Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

Brian Finley★★★★★
Posted: Jan 12, 2020
Courses Completed: Calculus II
I took Calculus II through Distance Calculus and can't recommend it enough. Being able to take the course at my own pace while I was working full time was tremendously helpful, especially since I hadn't taken a math course for 5 years prior. The instruction was excellent and the software they used to teach the course was intuitive and facilitated the learning process very well. This calc II class enabled me to take multivariable calc, linear algebra, and real analysis at Harvard University's extension school, which ultimately qualified me for the economics PhD program that I will graduate from next year. 8 years on, I'm still grateful to Professor Curtis and Distance Calculus.
Mark L.★★★★★
Posted: Sep 6, 2020
Courses Completed: Applied Calculus
Great course. Because of this class I was able to meet the entry requirements for my EMBA program on a tight time window in addition to sharpening math skills from classes taken over 15 years ago!
Transferred Credits To: MIT
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
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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