SFU Math 154 is the first course in a two-part calculus sequence designed specifically for life sciences students. It introduces differential and integral calculus with applications tailored to biology, chemistry, and health sciences—covering population models, drug concentration, enzyme kinetics, and ecological systems. Unlike Math 151 (which focuses on physics and engineering), Math 154 connects calculus directly to the biological world. If you're studying biology, biochemistry, or health sciences, Math 154 gives you the mathematical tools you'll use throughout your degree.
What is covered in SFU Math 154?
Math 154 introduces calculus with applications to life sciences. Topics include:
- Functions and models: Exponential, logarithmic, and logistic functions commonly used in biology
- Limits and continuity: Understanding behavior of biological functions
- Derivatives: Definition, differentiation rules (power, product, quotient, chain rule)
- Applications in life sciences: Population models, drug concentration curves, allometric scaling, enzyme kinetics (Michaelis-Menten)
- Optimization: Finding maximum or minimum values in biological contexts (e.g., optimal foraging, dosage)
- Related rates: Modeling how rates of change interact in dynamic biological systems
- Integration: Antiderivatives, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Applications of integration: Total drug amount, cumulative growth, and bioavailability
- Differential equations: First-order equations including exponential growth, decay, and logistic models
Math 154 is typically followed by Math 155 and is required for many biology, biochemistry, and health sciences programs.
Common challenges students face in Math 154
Biological context feels unfamiliar
You're not just learning derivatives—you're applying them to Michaelis-Menten equations, logistic growth, and pharmacokinetics. If you don't understand the biology, the math feels disconnected.
Word problems dominate exams
Unlike pure math courses, Math 154 exams are heavy on applied problems. You need to read a biological scenario, extract variables, set up equations, and solve—all under time pressure.
Exponential and logarithmic functions
These functions appear constantly in life sciences (bacterial growth, pH, drug clearance). If you're shaky on logarithm properties, you'll struggle throughout the course.
Balancing two halves
Math 154 covers both differential calculus (derivatives) and integral calculus (integration) in one semester. The pace is fast, and mastering both requires consistent effort.
How Learn4Less helps you succeed in Math 154
Our tutors understand both the calculus and the life sciences applications.
Step-by-step problem solving
We walk you through applied problems from start to finish: reading the problem, identifying variables, setting up equations, and solving. You'll learn how to approach unfamiliar scenarios confidently.
Contextual understanding
We explain the biology behind the math. When you're working with drug concentration models or population dynamics, you'll understand why the equations make sense—not just how to manipulate them.
Integration of derivatives and integrals
We help you see how differentiation and integration connect, especially in biological contexts (e.g., rate of change vs. total change).
Math 154 exam and midterm preparation
Math 154 typically has midterms and a final exam. Here's how we prepare you:
Practice with life sciences applications
We focus on the types of problems that appear most often: population models, optimization in biological contexts, and drug concentration curves.
Past exam walkthroughs
We work through previous years' exams so you know what to expect. You'll practice reading biological scenarios, extracting key information, and solving efficiently.
Conceptual fluency
We drill you on explaining derivatives and integrals in context: "What does this rate represent?" and "What does this integral calculate biologically?" These questions appear on every exam.
Why choose Learn4Less for Math 154 tutoring?
First-year specialization
We focus on SFU's first-year calculus courses, including life sciences calculus. Our tutors have guided hundreds of Math 154 students successfully.
Experience with SFU curricula
We know SFU's Math 154 syllabus, typical textbooks, and exam formats. We tailor our sessions to what SFU professors emphasize: biological applications and conceptual understanding.
Flexible formats
Choose in-person tutoring near UBC or online sessions that work for SFU students. Need help before a specific midterm? Book a targeted prep session. Want ongoing support? Weekly tutoring keeps you on track.
Video study packages
Prefer self-paced learning? Our video packages cover key Math 154 topics with biological examples—perfect for reviewing before exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Math 154 and Math 151?
Math 154 is designed for life sciences students, with applications like population growth, enzyme kinetics, and drug concentration. Math 151 is for physical sciences and engineering, focusing on mechanics and physics. The core calculus is similar; the applications differ.
Can I take Math 151 instead of Math 154?
Check your program requirements. Math 151 is often accepted as equivalent, but Math 154's biological applications will be more relevant and useful for life sciences majors.
Do I need high school calculus to take Math 154?
Not necessarily. Math 154 assumes some familiarity with functions, but many students succeed without prior calculus. If you've never seen derivatives before, review exponential and logarithmic functions before the course starts.
Does Math 154 cover both derivatives and integrals?
Yes. Unlike the standard two-course sequence (Math 151/152), Math 154 covers both differential and integral calculus in one semester. The pace is faster, but the material is tailored to life sciences.
When should I get a tutor for Math 154?
As soon as you feel confused or fall behind. The course moves quickly, covering both derivatives and integrals in one semester. Falling behind makes catching up very difficult. Proactive tutoring from week one is the smartest strategy.