[NUC Core] GET 209: Engineering Mathematics I
153 hrs
Learning Track Courses
Functions and Their Graphs - Single-Variable Calculus (Undergraduate Foundation)This course provides a rigorous foundation in the concept of functions, the building block of calculus. We begin with the real number system - rationals, irrationals, intervals, and infinity - before defining real-valued functions, their domains, and ranges. You will systematically study all key function families: polynomial, rational, algebraic, piecewise-defined, and transcendental, including exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and hyperbolic types.
A command of functions is essential for all technical and quantitative disciplines. These principles are directly applied in physics to model motion, in economics for supply-demand curves, in engineering for signal processing, and in computer science to analyse algorithm complexity. This course delivers the core mathematical tools required for effective modelling and problem-solving in these fields and beyond.
By the end of this course, you will be able to: calculate the domain and range of any given function; classify functions and identify their fundamental properties; analyse functions for key characteristics like symmetry (odd and even); and accurately construct graphs for a wide range of standard and piecewise-defined functions directly from their equations.
This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and economics. It is also critical for any student preparing for advanced calculus or for professionals who require a solid mathematical base for roles in finance, data science, or technical research.
This course provides a rigorous foundation in the concept of functions, the building block of calculus. We begin with the real number system - rationals, irrationals, intervals, and infinity - before defining real-valued functions, their domains, and ranges. You will systematically study all key function families: polynomial, rational, algebraic, piecewise-defined, and transcendental, including exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and hyperbolic types. A command of functions is essential for all technical and quantitative disciplines. These principles are directly applied in physics to model motion, in economics for supply-demand curves, in engineering for signal processing, and in computer science to analyse algorithm complexity. This course delivers the core mathematical tools required for effective modelling and problem-solving in these fields and beyond. By the end of this course, you will be able to: calculate the domain and range of any given function; classify functions and identify their fundamental properties; analyse functions for key characteristics like symmetry (odd and even); and accurately construct graphs for a wide range of standard and piecewise-defined functions directly from their equations. This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and economics. It is also critical for any student preparing for advanced calculus or for professionals who require a solid mathematical base for roles in finance, data science, or technical research.
Limits of Functions - Single-Variable Calculus (Undergraduate Foundation)This course provides a rigorous introduction to the concept of the limit, the theoretical bedrock upon which all of calculus is built. We will move from an intuitive understanding of what it means for a function to 'approach' a value to the algebraic techniques required for precise evaluation. The course covers the limit laws, methods for handling indeterminate forms, and the behavior of functions at infinity.
Understanding limits is non-negotiable for any serious study of calculus. The principles developed here are not merely abstract; they are the tools used to formally define the core concepts of calculus that are used to model the mechanics of change that govern engineering, physics, economics, and computer science.
By the end of this course, you will be able to: evaluate limits graphically, numerically, and algebraically; apply the Squeeze Theorem and L’Hôpital’s Rule; analyse the end-behavior of functions; and identify vertical and horizontal asymptotes.
This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in STEM fields who are beginning their calculus sequence. It is an essential prerequisite for subsequent courses on continuity and differentiability and is also invaluable for any student or professional seeking to rebuild their mathematical foundation from first principles.
This course provides a rigorous introduction to the concept of the limit, the theoretical bedrock upon which all of calculus is built. We will move from an intuitive understanding of what it means for a function to 'approach' a value to the algebraic techniques required for precise evaluation. The course covers the limit laws, methods for handling indeterminate forms, and the behavior of functions at infinity. Understanding limits is non-negotiable for any serious study of calculus. The principles developed here are not merely abstract; they are the tools used to formally define the core concepts of calculus that are used to model the mechanics of change that govern engineering, physics, economics, and computer science. By the end of this course, you will be able to: evaluate limits graphically, numerically, and algebraically; apply the Squeeze Theorem and L’Hôpital’s Rule; analyse the end-behavior of functions; and identify vertical and horizontal asymptotes. This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in STEM fields who are beginning their calculus sequence. It is an essential prerequisite for subsequent courses on continuity and differentiability and is also invaluable for any student or professional seeking to rebuild their mathematical foundation from first principles.
Continuity of Functions - Single-Variable Calculus (Undergraduate Foundation)This course provides a focused and rigorous examination of continuity, a fundamental property of functions that underpins the whole of differential and integral calculus. We move from an intuitive understanding of "unbroken" graphs to the formal, limit-based definition of continuity. The course systematically explores the different types of discontinuities and the powerful theorems that apply only to continuous functions.
A command of continuity is essential for understanding why calculus works. This concept ensures that functions are predictable and well-behaved, a necessary condition for modeling real-world phenomena and for the validity of the major theorems of calculus. It is the bridge between the concept of a limit and the concept of a derivative, explaining why a function must be continuous to be differentiable.
By the end of this course, you will be able to use the three-part definition to test for continuity at a point, identify and classify removable, jump, and infinite discontinuities, and apply the Intermediate Value Theorem and the Extreme Value Theorem to analyse function behavior on a closed interval.
This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics who have completed a course on limits. It is a critical prerequisite for the study of differentiability and is essential for any student seeking a deep understanding of calculus theory.
This course provides a focused and rigorous examination of continuity, a fundamental property of functions that underpins the whole of differential and integral calculus. We move from an intuitive understanding of "unbroken" graphs to the formal, limit-based definition of continuity. The course systematically explores the different types of discontinuities and the powerful theorems that apply only to continuous functions. A command of continuity is essential for understanding why calculus works. This concept ensures that functions are predictable and well-behaved, a necessary condition for modeling real-world phenomena and for the validity of the major theorems of calculus. It is the bridge between the concept of a limit and the concept of a derivative, explaining why a function must be continuous to be differentiable. By the end of this course, you will be able to use the three-part definition to test for continuity at a point, identify and classify removable, jump, and infinite discontinuities, and apply the Intermediate Value Theorem and the Extreme Value Theorem to analyse function behavior on a closed interval. This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics who have completed a course on limits. It is a critical prerequisite for the study of differentiability and is essential for any student seeking a deep understanding of calculus theory.
Differentiability of Functions - Single-Variable Calculus (Undergraduate Foundation)This course provides a rigorous, theoretical introduction to differential calculus. We will move beyond computation to understand the fundamental nature of the derivative, beginning with its formal definition as the limit of a difference quotient. The curriculum is designed to build a deep conceptual understanding of what it means for a function to be differentiable and the profound consequences of this property.
The primary focus is on formal proofs and theoretical results. We will systematically derive the rules of differentiation, including the product, quotient, and chain rules, directly from first principles. This course emphasizes the "why" behind the mechanics of calculus, establishing the logical framework upon which all applications are built, including the cornerstone theorems of Rolle, the Mean Value Theorem, and Taylor's Theorem.
By the end of this course, you will be able to: explain the derivative from its limit definition; prove the relationship between differentiability and continuity; formally derive all major differentiation rules; and understand the theoretical significance of the Mean Value Theorem and Taylor's Theorem.
This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in mathematics, physics, and engineering who require a deep theoretical foundation for their studies. It is the ideal precursor to subsequent courses on differentiation techniques and applications, providing the essential logical underpinnings for those more practical subjects.
This course provides a rigorous, theoretical introduction to differential calculus. We will move beyond computation to understand the fundamental nature of the derivative, beginning with its formal definition as the limit of a difference quotient. The curriculum is designed to build a deep conceptual understanding of what it means for a function to be differentiable and the profound consequences of this property. The primary focus is on formal proofs and theoretical results. We will systematically derive the rules of differentiation, including the product, quotient, and chain rules, directly from first principles. This course emphasizes the "why" behind the mechanics of calculus, establishing the logical framework upon which all applications are built, including the cornerstone theorems of Rolle, the Mean Value Theorem, and Taylor's Theorem. By the end of this course, you will be able to: explain the derivative from its limit definition; prove the relationship between differentiability and continuity; formally derive all major differentiation rules; and understand the theoretical significance of the Mean Value Theorem and Taylor's Theorem. This course is designed for first-year undergraduates in mathematics, physics, and engineering who require a deep theoretical foundation for their studies. It is the ideal precursor to subsequent courses on differentiation techniques and applications, providing the essential logical underpinnings for those more practical subjects.
Partial Differentiation and Its Applications - Multivariable Calculus (Undergraduate Advanced)This course provides a complete guide to the calculus of several variables. It builds from the foundational concepts of multivariable functions, limits, and continuity to the core techniques of differentiation, including partial derivatives, the chain rule, and implicit differentiation. The material culminates in advanced topics such as Taylor's theorem for several variables and the use of Jacobians.
Multivariable calculus is the language of modern science, engineering, and economics. Its principles are used to model complex surfaces, analyse thermodynamic systems, create 3D computer graphics, and solve critical optimisation problems in business and finance. This is the mathematical toolkit for working with systems that have multiple interacting variables.
By the end of this course, you will be able to calculate partial derivatives, apply the multivariable chain rule, and find directional derivatives using the gradient vector. You will also be able to solve both unconstrained and constrained optimisation problems by finding extreme values and using the method of Lagrange multipliers, and apply these derivatives to find tangent planes to surfaces.
This course is for students who have completed a full single-variable calculus sequence. It is the standard curriculum for a multivariable calculus (Calculus III) module and is a direct prerequisite for the study of vector calculus, differential equations, and advanced courses in physics, engineering, and economics.
This course provides a complete guide to the calculus of several variables. It builds from the foundational concepts of multivariable functions, limits, and continuity to the core techniques of differentiation, including partial derivatives, the chain rule, and implicit differentiation. The material culminates in advanced topics such as Taylor's theorem for several variables and the use of Jacobians. Multivariable calculus is the language of modern science, engineering, and economics. Its principles are used to model complex surfaces, analyse thermodynamic systems, create 3D computer graphics, and solve critical optimisation problems in business and finance. This is the mathematical toolkit for working with systems that have multiple interacting variables. By the end of this course, you will be able to calculate partial derivatives, apply the multivariable chain rule, and find directional derivatives using the gradient vector. You will also be able to solve both unconstrained and constrained optimisation problems by finding extreme values and using the method of Lagrange multipliers, and apply these derivatives to find tangent planes to surfaces. This course is for students who have completed a full single-variable calculus sequence. It is the standard curriculum for a multivariable calculus (Calculus III) module and is a direct prerequisite for the study of vector calculus, differential equations, and advanced courses in physics, engineering, and economics.
Matrices, Determinants, and Systems of Linear Equations - Linear Algebra (Undergraduate Advanced)Do you want to learn how to work with matrices and their properties, operations, and applications? Do you want to understand the concepts of determinants, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, diagonalization, quadratic and canonical forms? Do you want to master the skills of solving systems of linear equations, finding inverses, and computing matrix functions using different methods and tools?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you!
This course covers the fundamentals of matrix theory and its applications in mathematics and science. You will learn how to:
- Define and classify matrices and their special types, such as symmetric, orthogonal, diagonal, and identity matrices
- Perform matrix addition, subtraction, multiplication, and scalar multiplication using the algebraic properties of matrices
- Find the transpose, conjugate, and adjoint of a matrix and use them to simplify matrix operations and expressions
- Perform elementary row and column transformations on matrices and use them to find the row echelon form, reduced row echelon form, rank, and nullity of a matrix
- Find the minors, cofactors, and determinants of matrices and use them to calculate the area, volume, and orientation of geometrical figures
- Find the inverse of a matrix using the adjoint method or the row operations method and use it to solve systems of linear equations
- Find the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix using the characteristic polynomial and the Cayley-Hamilton theorem and use them to analyze the behavior and stability of dynamical systems
- Diagonalize a matrix using the eigenvalues and eigenvectors and use it to compute matrix functions, such as polynomials, exponentials, sines, and cosines of matrices
- Find the quadratic and canonical forms of an equation using the coefficient matrix and the transformation matrix and use them to classify and graph conics and quadrics
- Use computer software, such as MS-Excel, MATLAB, and Python, to perform matrix operations and computations efficiently and accurately
This course is suitable for anyone who wants to learn or review the basics of matrix theory and its applications. It is especially useful for students and professionals in algebra, calculus, differential equations, linear programming, optimization, cryptography, computer graphics, data science, machine learning, and other related fields.
By the end of this course, you will have a firm grasp of the theory and applications of matrices and determinants. You will also be able to apply the knowledge and skills you gain to solve real-world problems and challenges that involve matrices.
Once enrolled, you have access to dynamic video lessons, interactive quizzes, and live chat support for an immersive learning experience. You engage with clear video explanations, test your understanding with instant-feedback quizzes and interact with our expert instructor and peers in the chat room. Join a supportive learning community to exchange ideas, ask questions, and collaborate with peers as you master the material, by enrolling right away.
Do you want to learn how to work with matrices and their properties, operations, and applications? Do you want to understand the concepts of determinants, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, diagonalization, quadratic and canonical forms? Do you want to master the skills of solving systems of linear equations, finding inverses, and computing matrix functions using different methods and tools? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you! This course covers the fundamentals of matrix theory and its applications in mathematics and science. You will learn how to: - Define and classify matrices and their special types, such as symmetric, orthogonal, diagonal, and identity matrices - Perform matrix addition, subtraction, multiplication, and scalar multiplication using the algebraic properties of matrices - Find the transpose, conjugate, and adjoint of a matrix and use them to simplify matrix operations and expressions - Perform elementary row and column transformations on matrices and use them to find the row echelon form, reduced row echelon form, rank, and nullity of a matrix - Find the minors, cofactors, and determinants of matrices and use them to calculate the area, volume, and orientation of geometrical figures - Find the inverse of a matrix using the adjoint method or the row operations method and use it to solve systems of linear equations - Find the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a matrix using the characteristic polynomial and the Cayley-Hamilton theorem and use them to analyze the behavior and stability of dynamical systems - Diagonalize a matrix using the eigenvalues and eigenvectors and use it to compute matrix functions, such as polynomials, exponentials, sines, and cosines of matrices - Find the quadratic and canonical forms of an equation using the coefficient matrix and the transformation matrix and use them to classify and graph conics and quadrics - Use computer software, such as MS-Excel, MATLAB, and Python, to perform matrix operations and computations efficiently and accurately This course is suitable for anyone who wants to learn or review the basics of matrix theory and its applications. It is especially useful for students and professionals in algebra, calculus, differential equations, linear programming, optimization, cryptography, computer graphics, data science, machine learning, and other related fields. By the end of this course, you will have a firm grasp of the theory and applications of matrices and determinants. You will also be able to apply the knowledge and skills you gain to solve real-world problems and challenges that involve matrices. Once enrolled, you have access to dynamic video lessons, interactive quizzes, and live chat support for an immersive learning experience. You engage with clear video explanations, test your understanding with instant-feedback quizzes and interact with our expert instructor and peers in the chat room. Join a supportive learning community to exchange ideas, ask questions, and collaborate with peers as you master the material, by enrolling right away.
Vector Algebra and Foundational Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)This course provides a comprehensive, first-principles guide to vector analysis. We begin with the essential definitions, distinguishing between scalars, vectors, and various vector types. You will then master the core rules of vector algebra—including the triangle and parallelogram laws of addition and scalar multiplication—before applying them to prove geometric properties of polygons. The curriculum progresses logically through key concepts such as position vectors, resolving vectors into Cartesian components, the division of lines, vector projections, and the calculation of centroids.
The true power of vectors lies in their ability to connect abstract algebra to tangible geometry. This course is built around that connection, with a heavy emphasis on practical application. Through dozens of meticulously worked examples, you will move beyond theory and develop a deep, intuitive understanding of how to represent and solve complex geometric problems, building the confidence and skill needed for more advanced study.
This programme is designed for students in late secondary school (such as A-Level or IB) and first-year university students in physics, engineering, mathematics, and computer science. It is the perfect starting point for anyone new to the subject and an invaluable refresher for those who need to solidify their foundational knowledge before tackling more advanced topics like linear algebra or vector calculus.
This course provides a comprehensive, first-principles guide to vector analysis. We begin with the essential definitions, distinguishing between scalars, vectors, and various vector types. You will then master the core rules of vector algebra—including the triangle and parallelogram laws of addition and scalar multiplication—before applying them to prove geometric properties of polygons. The curriculum progresses logically through key concepts such as position vectors, resolving vectors into Cartesian components, the division of lines, vector projections, and the calculation of centroids. The true power of vectors lies in their ability to connect abstract algebra to tangible geometry. This course is built around that connection, with a heavy emphasis on practical application. Through dozens of meticulously worked examples, you will move beyond theory and develop a deep, intuitive understanding of how to represent and solve complex geometric problems, building the confidence and skill needed for more advanced study. This programme is designed for students in late secondary school (such as A-Level or IB) and first-year university students in physics, engineering, mathematics, and computer science. It is the perfect starting point for anyone new to the subject and an invaluable refresher for those who need to solidify their foundational knowledge before tackling more advanced topics like linear algebra or vector calculus.
Calculus of Scalar and Vector Fields (Undergraduate Advanced)Do you want to learn how to manipulate and analyze scalar and vector fields using advanced calculus techniques? Do you want to understand the concepts and methods of scalar and vector products, gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian operators? Do you want to apply the principles of vector analysis to solve problems in physics, engineering, and other disciplines?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you!
In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of calculus of scalar and vector fields, which is the branch of mathematics that deals with functions and operators that map points in space to scalars or vectors. You will learn how to use different notations and conventions to express scalar and vector fields, such as Einstein's summation, Kronecker delta, and Levi-Civita symbols. You will learn how to perform scalar and vector products of vectors, which are useful for measuring angles, areas, and volumes. You will learn how to compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field, which measures the rate and direction of change of a scalar function. You will learn how to compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field, which measure the sources and vortices of a vector field. You will also learn how to use the Laplacian operator, which combines the divergence and the gradient, and is useful for studying heat conduction, electrostatics, and fluid dynamics.
This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to solve various problems involving scalar and vector fields. You will be able to apply the concepts and methods of calculus of scalar and vector fields to fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, and more. You will also be able to appreciate the power of vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, which relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Define and explain the meaning of scalars, vectors, and tensors
- Identify and use different notations and conventions for scalar and vector fields
- Perform scalar and vector products of vectors and calculate angles, areas, and volumes
- Compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field and its properties
- Compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field and their properties
- Compute and interpret the Laplacian of a scalar or a vector field and its applications
- Use different coordinate systems and bases to express scalar and vector fields and operators
- Compute and interpret the gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates
- Recognize and use some special curvilinear coordinates, such as cylindrical and spherical coordinates
- Apply the vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, to relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains
Created for students, engineers, scientists, and anyone passionate about learning the calculus of scalar and vector fields, this course assumes a basic background in calculus, linear algebra, and vector algebra. With engaging video lessons, interactive quizzes, practice problems, and supportive peer interactions, you'll embark on a journey of discovery and mastery like never before.
Seize the opportunity to advance your mathematical skills and unlock new problem-solving possibilities with an enrolment right away!
Do you want to learn how to manipulate and analyze scalar and vector fields using advanced calculus techniques? Do you want to understand the concepts and methods of scalar and vector products, gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian operators? Do you want to apply the principles of vector analysis to solve problems in physics, engineering, and other disciplines? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this course is for you! In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of calculus of scalar and vector fields, which is the branch of mathematics that deals with functions and operators that map points in space to scalars or vectors. You will learn how to use different notations and conventions to express scalar and vector fields, such as Einstein's summation, Kronecker delta, and Levi-Civita symbols. You will learn how to perform scalar and vector products of vectors, which are useful for measuring angles, areas, and volumes. You will learn how to compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field, which measures the rate and direction of change of a scalar function. You will learn how to compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field, which measure the sources and vortices of a vector field. You will also learn how to use the Laplacian operator, which combines the divergence and the gradient, and is useful for studying heat conduction, electrostatics, and fluid dynamics. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to solve various problems involving scalar and vector fields. You will be able to apply the concepts and methods of calculus of scalar and vector fields to fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, and more. You will also be able to appreciate the power of vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, which relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains. By the end of this course, you will be able to: - Define and explain the meaning of scalars, vectors, and tensors - Identify and use different notations and conventions for scalar and vector fields - Perform scalar and vector products of vectors and calculate angles, areas, and volumes - Compute and interpret the gradient of a scalar field and its properties - Compute and interpret the divergence and curl of a vector field and their properties - Compute and interpret the Laplacian of a scalar or a vector field and its applications - Use different coordinate systems and bases to express scalar and vector fields and operators - Compute and interpret the gradient, divergence, curl, and Laplacian in orthogonal curvilinear coordinates - Recognize and use some special curvilinear coordinates, such as cylindrical and spherical coordinates - Apply the vector analysis theorems, such as Gauss', Green's, and Stokes' theorems, to relate the integrals of scalar and vector fields over different domains Created for students, engineers, scientists, and anyone passionate about learning the calculus of scalar and vector fields, this course assumes a basic background in calculus, linear algebra, and vector algebra. With engaging video lessons, interactive quizzes, practice problems, and supportive peer interactions, you'll embark on a journey of discovery and mastery like never before. Seize the opportunity to advance your mathematical skills and unlock new problem-solving possibilities with an enrolment right away!