Calculus

Overview

One of the most important factors in student success in mathematics is correct placement, so calculus at RIT begins with the Math Placement Exam (MPE). Based on the results of the MPE, students are directed to a sequence that matches their academic needs, shown in the flow chart below.

Math Placement Test Flowchart

Calculus

The final exam for each section of each calculus course is given in two parts:

  • A multiple-choice "common core" in which students are asked to demonstrate basic skills and knowledge that are fundamental to the subject
  • A free-response part written by the individual instructor in which students demonstrate skills and knowledge particular to that section and instructor

The School of Mathematics and Statistics prohibits calculators on the final exam of calculus (and other first-year) courses. Many professors prepare students for this by prohibiting calculators on exams during the term.

Common sense points to adequate preparation as an important element in student success. Particularly when courses are in sequence, demonstrated competence in one course provides the best foundation for success in the next. For this reason, students in calculus must earn a letter grade of at least "C-" before continuing on to subsequent courses.

Calculus Bridge Exam

Students bridge from MATH-171 to MATH-182 by taking the Bridge Exam as a Credit by Examination/Experience during final exam week.

A score of at least 80% on the Bridge Exam is required to receive 1 credit for MATH-180 (Calculus Bridge) and thus move onto MATH 182.

Email mecsma@rit.edu if you are interested in taking the exam.

  1. Grade level of A or A- in MATH-171.
  2. A score of at least 80% on the MATH-171 final exam.
  3. Students typically have previous exposure to the exam topics. For example, students took high school courses from which they earned no college credit.
  • Free response written exam
  • Approximately 10 questions, 90 minutes long
  • Students must show proficiency in both MATH-171 and MATH-181 content

TOPICS FROM MATH-181 THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN MATH-171:

  • Integration:
    • Estimating area
    • Sigma notation and Riemann sums
    • The definite integral
    • Antiderivatives
    • The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
    • Indefinite integrals
    • The substitution technique of integration
    • The definition of a logarithm in terms of integrals