MATH 140 Calculus for Business

What is MATH 140?

MATH 140 is Calculus for Business. It includes algebraic functions, limits, derivatives, integrals, and multi-variable calculus with various applications. In general, calculus is the study of change, and these concepts are applied to business fields.

Which schools does MATH 140 transfer to?

All CSU and UC schools. See a counselor to verify specific private colleges.

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Who typically* takes MATH 140?

Business-related majors.

*Note: For some Business-related majors, some transfer schools may accept MATH 140 (Calculus for Business) or other Mt. SAC math courses. Please meet with a counselor about the specific school you intend to transfer to determine your math requirement.

What can I do to be successful in MATH 140?

Plan to study outside of class at least 8 hours each week, or more if it has been a while since you have taken a math class.
Study actively by doing practice problems, making note cards, and making study guides.
Attend professor's student hours (office hours) and math support centers regularly.
Form study groups with other students in class and try to explain problems as you do them.

Where can I get help if I am struggling with MATH 140 topics?

First off, remember that you are not alone! Many students find MATH 140 challenging, so here are the supports you have available here at Mt. SAC.

Your Instructor

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Tutoring Centers on Campus

$MARCS logo - Mt. SAC Mathematics Resources$

MARCS

$STEM Center logo - Mt. San Antonio College$

STEM Center

$ASAC logo - Academic Support and Achievement Center. Your one-stop shop for success! In-person and online support available.$

ASAC

We want to remind you that when it comes to learning math… mindset matters! Believe in yourself and know that asking for help is strongly encouraged. In fact, data shows that if you use the support resources on campus, you will be more successful in your classes, so start visiting them early rather than right before a big exam.

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

Calculus is a powerful branch of mathematics built upon many different mathematical concepts. It involves more than just memorization, algebraic and trigonometric manipulation, and deriving proofs! It will help you combine these skills with an understanding of how things change, so that you can apply mathematical concepts in any field you are interested in, from engineering to economics.

Math concepts frequently used in MATH 140?

Basic arithmetic and algebra, including simplifying expressions and factoring
Logarithmic and exponential functions and their properties
Solving equations and inequalities involving polynomial, rational, root, exponential, and logarithmic functions

Where can I brush up on math concepts frequently used in MATH 140?

Join the MATH 140 Math Jumpstart Canvas page, created by Mt. SAC math faculty, with topic-based modules that include 5-10 minute refresher videos and practice problems to review at your own pace.
Enroll in a free faculty-led noncredit math prep class through AIME (Academic Instruction for Math and English) in Mt. SAC’s School of Continuing Education.

Math Support Options

Remember, we want you to successfully complete your math requirements as you head toward your educational goal! If you feel that you would be better served in a different math class, we want you to know that it might be possible to find an open math class to switch to right now, or you can join a 12-week or 8-week class that starts late. However, don’t wait to make this change! You need to make the switch within the first few days of the semester to avoid a W on your transcript.

Here are the classes along the BSTEM path that you have access to:

MATH MATH 140+14 Business for Calculus w/ Support [6 units]
MATH 180 Calculus I [4 units] or MATH 180+18A Calculus I w/ Support [6 units]
MATH 110 Elementary Statistics [3 units] or MATH 110+11 Elementary Statistics w/Support [5 units]

Note that course numbering does not indicate difficulty of course content. If you have further questions about which course is right for you, please speak to a counselor.

Anyone can learn calculus! It is not a skill set that one is either born with or not. YOU are capable not only of learning calculus, but also of excelling in calculus!

For additional calculus help, please visit the Math Activities Resource Centers (MARCS) or the Academic Support and Achievement Center (ASAC).