Summer Math Program
Most students will benefit from extra preparation in math during the summer before coming to Clarkson. We have lots of ways for you to get some help.
Calculus Readiness Assessment
In the spring a diagnostic test is distributed to all incoming first-year students. In excess of 90% of the students respond to this. Based on their individual performance they are advised (by email to students and letters to parents) as to whether they need further practice during the summer.
We are in the process of evaluating those scores and will be sending students recommendations for actions to take over the summer to lead toward college success. In response to COVID-19, we are considering several bridge options and are waiting for finalized NYS guidance to implement those plans. Once those opportunities are in place, we will notify students of those opportunities.
Springboard to Calculus: An on-campus bootcamp
All Springboard students will be able to move in early on Friday, August 15, 2025, nine days before the semester begins, to the residence hall room that they will live in during their first year.
Students will learn refresher coursework during their boot camp, related to the subject in which they enroll. When not in class, students will be able to explore the campus and local community, participate in group activities, learn about life on campus, and more.
Students enrolled in this boot camp complete calculus coursework for about four hours per day. We familiarize students with the books, software, and system they will use in first-year calculus, while allowing them to work with instructors and graduate teaching assistants, exposing them to the college approach to learning. While reviewing essential topics from algebra, trigonometry and geometry, students acclimate to campus before fall classes begin.
This program is a pay program. TRiO - Student Support Services (SSS) has scholarships available to assist income-eligible students to offset this cost. Students can enroll in this program through Clarkson Portal.
CUMath: an Online Math Refresher for STEM majors
CU Math
This is a web-based program open to any student. Go here for details from last year.
Books
There are many books for pre-calculus courses. Here are some inexpensive ones that have lots of exercises.
- Cliffs Quick Reviews (Algebra II, Trigonometry)
- Schaum's Outline Series (Precalculus, College Algebra, Trigonometry)
- Bob Miller's Calc for the Clueless: Precalc with Trigonometry
- Barron's Trigonometry the Easy Way, Barron's Algebra the Easy Way
Private Tutoring
You may be able to find a private tutor. It doesn't have to be a math teacher, just someone who knows whether you're doing a problem right or wrong and can explain the right way. This can be a great way to get ready. Here are some pointers.
Get a book and do exercises, about one hour daily, five days a week. The important thing is to get lots of practice. Don't use a calculator for anything. Calculators are not allowed on Calculus tests at Clarkson.