Mathematics 222

Background:
The Mathematics Department has changed its prerequisites for the B.S. and A.B. degree in Mathematics. Previously Math 212 (Intermediate Calculus) and Math 221 (Linear Algebra) were prerequisites for the major.  We now allow the course, Math 222 (Advanced Multivariable Calculus) to replace Math 212 as a prerequisite for the Math major. Note that Math 222 has Math 221 as a prerequisite.

Recommendation for math majors: We strongly encourage prospective Mathematics majors to take Math 221 followed by Math 222, instead of Math 212 followed by Math 221.   Thus, prospective math majors who enter with advance credit for Math 21 and Math 22 would take Math 221 in their first semester, and they would take Math 222 in their second semester.

This sequence is also recommended for students who are curious about the math major, or who are interested in getting a more solid mathematical foundation.

Why the Change?
Vector calculus naturally depends on concepts and techniques of linear algebra. Hence,  a vector calculus class which assumes linear algebra as a prerequisite can offer a more sophisticated treatment of the material.

Note for engineering students:
The usual math sequence for engineering students-- Math 212, 216, 353 -- would be replaced by Math 221, 222, 356, and 453 (or 551). Of course, an engineering student should make sure that the choice of math courses is approved by the department of the student's engineering major.

Special note on scheduling:
A student completing second-semester calculus (Math 112L or Math 122L) in a fall semester should not take the Math 221/222 sequence, because Math 222 will be offered only in spring semesters. Students completing a second-semester calculus course in the fall should either take Math 212 in the spring and Math 221 in the following fall--or take Math 221 in the spring and Math 212 in the following fall.

FAQs:
1. Can a math major still follow the previous plan of taking Math 212 followed by Math 221?
Yes.
 
2. As an engineering major, does getting a double major with math mean that in effect Math 216 is being replaced by two courses, Math 221 and Math 356?
    Math 221 and Math 356 together cover everything in Math 216, and quite a bit more; but neither one alone covers everything in Math 216. This is because Math 216 covers some of both linear algebra and differential equations. In addition to completing the material of Math 216, Math 356 also covers part of Math 353. Math 453 then covers most of the remainder of Math 353, and goes into more depth on partial differential equations.
     Math majors should have the depth and thoroughness contained in Math 221, Math 356, and Math 453.
 
3. What if I take Math 221 and then decide I do not want to take Math 222? May I still take Math 212?
Yes; however, you cannot take Math 216 after getting credit for Math 221.
 
4. What if I'm an engineering student, and after completing Math 216, I decide I want to be a math major?
You'll need to meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies in Mathematics concerning the missed material in linear algebra.
 
5. As an engineering student who is considering majoring in math, suppose I take Math 221 and then decide that I do not want to get a double major with math. Am I locked into taking Math 356 and Math 453?
Probably yes, but you should consult with your major advisor or the Director of Undergraduate Studies in your engineering department about your plans.

Math 222. Advanced Multivariable Calculus. QS Partial differentiation, multiple integrals, and topics in differential and integral vector calculus, including Green's theorem, Stokes's theorem, and Gauss's theorem for students with a background in linear algebra. Not open to students who have taken Mathematics 202 or 212. Prerequisite: Mathematics 221. Instructor: Staff. One course