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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
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
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

Rebecca Johnson★★★★★
Posted: Feb 19, 2020
Courses Completed: Applied Calculus
I took the Business Calculus course from Distance Calculus in 2013. I was admitted to my MBA program, but then they told me I needed to take Calculus before starting the program. I finished the Business Calculus course in about 3 weeks in August before my program started. Not the most fun thing to do over the summer, but at least I got it done. Thanks Diane and Distance Calculus team!
Transferred Credits To: Kellogg MBA Program
Sean Metzger★★★★★
Posted: Aug 23, 2020
Courses Completed: Differential Equations
A lifesaver. When I found out I needed a course done in the last weeks of summer I thought there was no way i'd find one available, but this let me complete the course as quickly as I needed to while still mastering the topics. Professor always got back to me very quickly and got my assignments back to me the next day or day of. Can't recommend this course enough for students in a hurry or who just want to learn at their own pace.
Email: seanmetzger78@gmail.com
Transferred Credits To: Missouri University of Science and Technology
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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