Business Calculus Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Information

Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and policies for Mathematics 121 - 701 (Business Calculus) at SUNY Cortland. The course is designed to introduce students to calculus concepts with applications relevant to business, economics, and social sciences.

Textbook

Required Text

• Calculus with Applications, 2nd/7th/8th/9th edition by Lial, Greenwell, Ritchey (Published by Pearson)

The course will cover material from Chapters 1–6 of the text, focusing on foundational calculus concepts and their business applications.

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

• Understand the concept of a function in algebraic, graphical, and numerical forms.

• Comprehend the definition and concept of the limit of a function.

• Learn the definition and interpretation of a derivative.

• Apply rules for calculating derivatives of polynomial and rational functions.

• Use derivatives to solve business-related problems, such as optimization and marginal analysis.

• Understand the geometric significance of the first and second derivatives, including graphing and describing function concavity.

• Be able to solve "applied" problems using calculus.

Grading Policy

Assessment Breakdown

• Homework and Attendance: 10%

• Quizzes: 10%

• Test 1: 20%

• Test 2: 20%

• Cumulative Final Exam: 40%

Grade Scale

Percentage	Grade
94-100%	A
90-93%	A-
87-89%	B+
84-86%	B
80-83%	B-
77-79%	C+
74-76%	C
70-73%	C-
67-69%	D+
64-66%	D
60-63%	D-
Below 60%	E

Course Policies

Homework

• Assigned for each class; must be completed and submitted for credit.

• No credit for late or incomplete assignments.

Attendance

• Mandatory; excessive absences may result in grade penalties.

• Students are responsible for all missed material and assignments.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Refer to the College Handbook for detailed policies.

Disability Services

• Accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

• Contact the Disability Services Office for assistance.

Diversity and Inclusion

• The college is committed to providing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment.

• Support is available for students facing discrimination or harassment.

Title IX

• Protection against sex discrimination and harassment is provided under Title IX.

• Resources and reporting procedures are available for affected students.

Course Topics (from Textbook Chapters 1–6)

Key Topics Likely Covered

• Linear Functions: Definition, graphing, and applications in business.

• Nonlinear Functions: Quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

• The Derivative: Concept, notation, and interpretation.

• Calculating the Derivative: Rules and techniques for differentiation.

• Graphs and the Derivative: Using derivatives to analyze and sketch graphs.

• Applications of the Derivative: Optimization, marginal analysis, and business problem-solving.

Important Reminders

• Mathematics is an active discipline; participation and effort are essential for success.

• "You only get out of it what you put into it."