Do You Need Multivariable Calculus Before Linear Algebra - Distance Calculus

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

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

Multivariable Calculus course can best be described as a "the first semester course of Differential and Integral Calculus to functions of many variables".

This course has many names, all being equivalent:

Calculus III
Calculus IV
Vector Calculus
Calculus of Many Variables
Calculus of Several Variables

At Distance Calculus, we call our "Multivariable Calculus" course as Multivariable Calculus - DMAT 355 - 4 credits.

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

Distance Calculus - Student Reviews

Aileen C.★★★★★

Posted: Dec 8, 2020

Courses Completed: Differential Equations

This course may be more difficult than your average differential equations course, which better prepares you to use these skills in your degree. The self-learning does make learning some of the concepts challenging, but you get the help you need to understand these concepts.

Transferred Credits To: Johns Hopkins University

Mark Neiberg ★★★★★

Posted: Jan 12, 2020

Courses Completed: Calculus I, Calculus II, Multivariable Calculus

Curriculum was high quality and allowed student to experiment with concepts which resulted in an enjoyable experience. Assignment Feedback was timely and meaningful.

Samuel H.★★★★☆

Posted: Jun 2, 2021

Courses Completed: Linear Algebra

Nothing but praise for Dr. Curtis. He's an excellent professor who is very responsive and knowledgeable. I did this course at night while working full-time, and I often skyped him late in the evening with questions. He never took long to respond, regardless of when it was. I finished this course in about a month and a half, and I worked for it. For those looking for an easy A, this is not it. You will have to put in serious work, but you will come out of the course with a good understanding of the material, especially if you apply yourself throughout the entirety of the course.

Email: samuel.howell@g.fmarion.edu

Transferred Credits To: Francis Marion 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)