Linear Algebra with Calculus 2 Prerequisite

What are the course prerequisites for Linear Algebra?

The only prerequisite for Linear Algebra is: Calculus II (Calculus 2)

Some students are a bit confused by this requirement. Does Linear Algebra do more integration theory from Calculus 2?

No, Linear Algebra turns out to be a completely different subject than is Calculus 2. So why is Calculus 2 the prerequisite?

In Math Education, the reason is explained as to requiring a "mathematical maturity" of the student enrolling in Linear Algebra. While Linear Algebra does not continue the student of integral calculus, per se, it is a conceptually more difficult subject that is not easily engaged by younger students, especially those those who have not completed the freshman calculus sequence of Calculus I and Calculus II.

So, for those students wishing to get ahead and get Linear Algebra in their completed column in their academic plan, you do need to complete Calculus II first, which means also completing Calculus I first, even though Linear Algebra has nothing to do with either course.

Here is a video about our Linear Algebra course via Distance Calculus @ Roger Williams University:

Linear Algebra Course

Multivariable Calculus & High School

After AP Calculus for High School Students

Linear Algebra course can best be described as a "first course in the study of Linear Algebra and Matrix Theory".

This course has many names, all being equivalent:

Linear Algebra
Matrix Theory
Linear Systems of Equations
Linear Spaces

Our Linear Algebra course differs from a classroom/textbook-based course in that we employ Mastery Learning so that you complete all assignments at 100% to assure competancy, as well as our curriculum shifting the course to a laboratory-style course, where theorem/lemma/proof type exposition is replaced by running experiments in Mathematica as you would in a science laboratory to empirically deduce the concepts and behaviors of Linear Algebra, both solvable (classically) via hand-based techiques, as well as studying Linear Algebra that can only be solved and investigated graphically and numerically using a computer. The Linear Algebra curriculum is highly visual and based upon observations of experiments run in Mathematica.

At Distance Calculus, we call our "Linear Algebra" course as Linear Algebra - DMAT 335 - 3 credits.

Below are some links for further information about the Linear Algebra course via Distance Calculus @ Roger Williams University.

Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

Douglas Z.★★★★★

Posted: Jun 6, 2020

Courses Completed: Multivariable Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Probability Theory

I loved these courses. So in depth and comprehensive. The mix of software and math curriculum was tremendously helpful to my future studies and career in engineering. I highly recommend these courses if you are bored of textbook courses.

Transferred Credits To: University of Massachusetts, Amherst

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

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

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)