Why should I learn pre-calculus?

If you want to pursue a career that requires knowledge of calculus, learning pre-calculus can be a good place to start. Learning pre-calculus can also prepare you for advanced study since it is sometimes a prerequisite for calculus courses.

What's the best way to learn pre-calculus?

The best way to learn pre-calculus depends on your time constraints and goals. Courses can be an effective way to learn pre-calculus concepts at your own pace. If you want more in-depth training to help prepare you for a calculus-heavy career, a degree program that offers pre-calculus and calculus courses may be the best fit.

How long does it take to learn pre-calculus?

Learning pre-calculus may take you anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the program you choose and your existing knowledge of mathematics.

How hard is it to learn pre-calculus?

Many people consider calculus and pre-calculus difficult to learn. That being said, the difficulty of learning pre-calculus depends on your existing knowledge of math and how quickly you are able to pick up new concepts.

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What is pre-calculus?

Pre-calculus is a branch of mathematics designed to prepare students to understand calculus. In precalculus courses, you'll learn about complex numbers, sequences, limits, and simple and complex functions.

Depending on the learning environment, learning pre-calculus may take several weeks to several months. With pre-calculus knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to learn general calculus theories such as differential equations, vector calculus, multivariable calculus, integral calculus, and more.

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Choosing the right pre-calculus program for you

When choosing the right pre-calculus course, asses your existing mathematics knowledge and preferred learning environment. If you're new to advanced math, you may want to choose a learning option that gives you direct access to an instructor.

If you already have extensive math knowledge and a knack for grasping mathematical concepts, an accelerated course or track that leans more readily into calculus concepts may be a better fit.

Here are some options you have for learning pre-calculus.

Courses

Online pre-calculus courses allow you to learn the fundamentals of calculus, often at your own pace. Courses typically last a few weeks.

Certifications

While there are limited certifications available in pre-calculus, there may be options to earn related certifications that show your command of pre-calculus concepts. These may include options like certified financial analyst (CFA) for working with financial modeling or design certifications like AutoCAD that utilize geometry and basic calculus.

Executive education programs

For busy executives who need to understand the fundamentals of calculus, executive education programs offer a chance to learn while balancing other commitments.

Degrees

Bachelor's or master's degree programs in engineering, physics, business administration, architecture, or economics may include instruction in pre-calculus to prepare you for higher-level courses. If you want to pursue a career that relies heavily on calculus, enrolling in a program in one of these areas could help prepare you.

Jobs in pre-calculus

Calculus is used in many industries, such as computer science, engineering, economics, finance, physics, healthcare, and construction. Careers in these sectors may require you to expand your knowledge beyond pre-calculus in order to understand and implement more complex concepts.

Here is a look at a few of the jobs available that require knowledge of calculus.