Calculus

Don't sweep it under the rug

First-year calculus may come with a lot of academic challenges, but we are here to help you successfully complete first-year calculus. Don't forget there are even some things you can do to get ready for calculus!

If you are planning on doing a degree in science, computer science, engineering or mathematics, you are more than likely required to take at least one introductory calculus course. In some cases, you may be taking more advanced calculus courses. 

Students in non-science programs (BA and BBA) may also be advised to take a calculus course. It is vitally important that all students understand the various 1000 level Math courses at UNB Saint John.

The 1000 level UNB Saint John Math courses include:

Math 1001 vs. Math 1003

Math 1001: calculus for life science: This class is the preferred calculus course for students in:

• BHS
• BSc Biology
• BSc Marine Biology
• BSc Psychology,
• BSc Biology-Psychology.

Math 1003: a traditional introductory university calculus course: Math 1003 can be used as a calculus credit for any BSc degree at UNB Saint John, but it is generally used by students in non-biology BSc majors, BSE, BScCS and BISc. 

Math 1001 is not easier than Math 1003: If you plan on taking two or more calculus courses, you should follow the Math 1003, 1013 path. A mark of B or higher in Math 1001 can be used to enter Math 1013. 

How to register for a math class

You can register for a math course once you have met the basic prerequisites, which you'll find in the academic calendar. Most math courses simply require successful completion of grade 12 mathematics.

Math 1003 and Math 1001 have specific prerequisites and conditions. To register for these classes, you need to:

• Earn at least 70% on the province-wide Math 122 or Math 120 exam written in your high school in the preceding academic year
• Your teacher needs to notify UNB
• Pass UNB's Calculus Challenge Exam
• Have a passing grade (C or better) in any math course at UNB
• Your UNB transcript shows that you once failed MATH1003.

Math 1863 – Precalculus Math

In this class, you will review Grade 12 mathematics skills which are critical for the successful completion of any intro calculus course. Some students choose to take this course or it may be part of their BSc Entrance Science plan.

This class is a regular 3ch course - however, those 3ch may not be used towards the total credit hours needed to graduate any SASE related degree (BSc, BSE, BHS, BScCS, BISc).

If your math skills are lacking, this class might be a necessary step to properly build the math foundation needed for most science degrees. Taking this class should not put you off a normal four year graduation plan.