Choosing your Math Course
Selection of the appropriate mathematics course is somewhat involved. The usual sequence taken by entering engineering students is MATH 1300, 1301, and 2300. Math 1300 is a four-hour beginning calculus course for engineering students.
If you have earned a 5 on the BC Calculus Advanced Placement test, you will automatically be awarded eight hours of credit for MATH 1300 and 1301. Although you may start with MATH 2300, you should consider beginning calculus at Vanderbilt with MATH 1301 as good preparation for your second- and third-year courses in mathematics. If you elect to take either MATH 1300 or 1301 at Vanderbilt, the corresponding AP credit will be canceled.
If you have earned a 5 on the AB Calculus Advanced Placement test, you will automatically be awarded four hours of credit for MATH 1300, and you may start with MATH 1301.
Some deep self-evaluation should be made based on your high school math background. Adjust your starting point in mathematics based on your AP credit, the rigor of your high school math courses, and your proficiency and comfort with the material. The Department of Mathematics will evaluate student performance at the beginning of the semester and move students to a different level if warranted. If you find the course you have chosen too advanced, you may drop back to the lower level course without penalty during the first two weeks of the semester.
VU School of Engineering Calculus Placement
Class of 2027 School of Engineering students are required to take a calculus placement test through ALEKS. Please click the button below to learn more.