Overview of the calculus courses
This page is a broad overview of the calculus sequences here at UW-Madison. Questions about these courses as well as affiliated courses at the 100 and 200 levels should be directed to our placement specialists.
The standard calculus sequence: 221-222-234
The standard calculus sequence is Math 221, 222, and 234. These courses cover all of the standard content of differential and integral single and multivariable calculus. The target student body for these courses are any student interested in any area of mathematics, engineering, and the biological, natural, and social sciences.
The calculus with precalculus sequence: 171-217-222-234
Students who place into precalculus, but wish to be exposed to calculus concepts sooner may register for the Math 171 and Math 217 sequence. These classes together cover the content of our own math 221 with just in time' precalculus review. Upon passing math 217, students can progress into math 222. Note that:
- Math 171 is offered ONLY in the Fall.
- Math 217 is offered ONLY in the Spring.
- For the purposes of program requirements and/or prerequisites, students who complete both math 171 and 217 will be considered to have completed math 114 (precalculus) and math 221 (calculus 1)
- This means that a student who has passed only 171 and not 217 may not enroll in a class which has either 114 or 221 as a prerequisite.
The following diagram indicates the prerequisite paths for our calculus courses together with all related courses below 300. For a clickable version please visit this page.
