A widely used textbook is “Multivariable Calculus: Concepts and Contexts” by James Stewart.
Is Math 55 only at Harvard?
Math 55 is a two-semester long first-year undergraduate mathematics course at Harvard University, founded by Lynn Loomis and Shlomo Sternberg….Historical instances of Math 55.
| Year | Instructor | Course materials |
|---|---|---|
| 2015–2016 | Yum-Tong Siu | |
| 2016-2018 | Noam Elkies | 55a |
| 2018-2020 | Joe Harris | |
| 2020–2022 | Denis Auroux | 2020 55a , 2021 55b |
How hard is Math 55 at Harvard?
Math 55 is like a full-time job—plus overtime. According to a freshman guide to Harvard’s Mathematics Department, there are two first-year math courses, the hardest one being Math 55. You could take Math 21, which is taught by graduate students and where homework usually takes a reasonable three to six hours per week.
What are the prerequisites for Math 55?
The formal prerequisites for Math 55 are minimal, but this class does require a commitment to a demanding course, strong interest in mathematics, and familiarity with proofs and abstract reasoning.
Is Honors Math 55a worth it?
The two-semester-long-course—which is made up of “Honors Abstract Algebra” (Math 55a), in the fall, and “Honors Real and Complex Analysis” (Math 55b), in the spring—is far tougher than its unimposing name might have you believe. But, by all accounts, it’s totally worth going through the ordeal.
What happens when you find out You’re a math 55er?
And a 55er (that’s what Math 55 students call themselves) could confirm: When people find out, they “just spontaneously combust, swoon, faint, turn bright red, start giggling.” Or they just ask for help on homework. Math 55 is like a full-time job—plus overtime.
