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Be a tutor

Tutor applications

We are always looking for qualified tutors to work at the Math Center. You do not have to be a math major to be a tutor. 

Minimum qualifications:

  • Be currently enrolled as a Βι¶ΉΣ³»­ student
  • Have completed Calculus I (Math 181 at the Βι¶ΉΣ³»­)
  • Earned at least a B in all college math courses
  • Possess good interpersonal and communication skills

Application process: 

Interested students should submit an application form and an unofficial transcript to the Math Center. 

  • You can submit your application to the University Math Center in person -Pennington Student Achievement Center, Room 300.
  • Or email it to: mathcenter@unr.edu

If your application qualifies, you will be contacted to take the Math Center tutor exam. 

University Math Center tutor exam

In order to apply for a tutoring position in the University Math Center, a student must take a math proficiency exam. The exam contains algebraic/trigonometric topics and a review of calculus concepts.

The exam is not timed and typically applicants take about 1.5 - 2 hours to finish, please plan accordingly. Books, notes, and calculators are not allowed on the exam. Students are encouraged to show as much work as possible: partial credit is awarded for correct work. 

Below is a study guide. There is a copy of the reference texts in the Math Center Lab. You can use these books to study but they cannot leave the room.

Review for algebra/pre-calculus topics

Reference Text: Algebra and Trigonometry, 4th edition, Michael Sullivan, Ch 1-8; Sect 9.1, 9.5; Sect 12.1.

  • Algebra rules: exponents, square roots, logarithms, absolute values, fractions, order of operations, properties, domain, factoring, quadratic formula, Pythagorean Theorem
  • Equations and inequalities involving: polynomials, absolute value, rational, trigonometric, exponential and logarithm functions, systems of equations, solution sets
  • Graphing functions: circles, polynomials, absolute value, rational, trigonometric, exponential and logarithm functions
  • Setting up equations from information given in word problems

Review for calculus topics

Reference Text: Single Variable Calculus, 3rd edition, James Stewart. Ch 2; Ch 3; Sect 4.2, 4.3; Sect 5.2-5.6.

  • Limits: one-sided, two-sided, infinite, continuity, holes, asymptotes
  • Basic derivatives: polynomials, trigonometric, exponential and logarithm functions
  • Derivative rules: product, quotient, chain, implicit differentiation
  • Interpreting derivatives: relative and global maxima and minima, inflection points
  • Basic integrals: definite, involving polynomials, and trigonometric functions

Depending on your application and test score, we will contact you for an interview. If you have any questions please e-mail mathcenter@unr.edu.