MTH2010 Multivariable calculus
Faculty of Science
MTH2010 Multivariable calculus is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2026 in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites and unlocks 28 units, leading on to 76 units in all.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2026
- Semester 1, Semester 2
- Clayton
- Assessment
- Exam 50%
- and 1 other task
This is the 2026 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
Reviews
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Requisites
Before MTH2010
No prerequisites or corequisites besides the enrolment rules below.
After MTH2010
28 units list MTH2010 as a prerequisite or corequisite.
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Enrolment rules
Equivalent units
The same content under another code. Only one of them counts.
Overview
Functions of several variables, partial derivatives, extreme values, Lagrange multipliers. Multiple integrals, line integrals, surface integrals. Vector differential calculus; grad, div and curl. Integral theorems of Gauss and Stokes.
Offerings in 2026
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Clayton | On campus |
| Second semester | Clayton | On campus |
Assessment
- Continuous assessmentDemonstration50%
- Final assessment - Exam (3 hours and 10 minutes)Examination50%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Apply multivariable calculus techniques to solve problems in mathematics, physics, and related disciplines;
- 2
Explain the definition of the derivative of a multivariable function and its geometric interpretation as the tangent plane, as well as its relation to the gradient and directional derivative;
- 3
Find and classify extrema of functions of several variables, including constrained optimisation using Lagrange multipliers;
- 4
Evaluate and interpret line, surface, and volume integrals in Cartesian, cylindrical, and spherical coordinates, and apply the integral theorems of Green, Gauss, and Stokes;
- 5
Communicate mathematical reasoning effectively, both orally and in writing, and collaborate to analyse and solve problems using multivariable calculus techniques.
Workload and teaching
- Seminars36 hours
- Applied sessions22 hours
- Teaching approachActive learning
- Three 1-hour seminars;
- One 2-hour applied class (in weeks 2-12) and
- 7 hours of independent study per week.
Active learning will occur in lectures and applied classes.
Learning resources
Required resources
Calculus, Metric Version by James Stewart, Cengage Learning, 9th edition, or individual chapters.
Where it fits
MTH2010 is part of 18 areas of study in the 2026 handbook.
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Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Professor Todd Oliynyk
- Dr Julie Clutterbuck
- Chief Examiners
- Dr Julie Clutterbuck
- Professor Todd Oliynyk
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for MTH2010?
MTH2010 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
What can I take after MTH2010?
MTH2010 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 28 units, including ASP2062, ASP3012, ASP3051, ASP3162, CHE3162 and CHE3167. Those lead on to 76 units in all.
When is MTH2010 offered?
In 2026, MTH2010 runs in Semester 1 and Semester 2 at Clayton.
Does MTH2010 have an exam?
Yes. The exam is worth 50% of the final mark, alongside 1 other task.
Which majors and minors include MTH2010?
MTH2010 is part of Applied mathematics; Astrophysics; Atmospheric science; Financial and insurance mathematics; and Mathematical economics and econometrics, and 4 other areas of study.