Be a tutor

Tutor application

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 a University of Nevada, Reno student enrolled in at least six credits
• Have completed Calculus I (Math 181 at the University of Nevada, Reno)
• 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 exams. 

University Math Center tutor exams

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

Exams are not timed and they should not be taken on the same day. Typically applicants take about 1.5 - 2 hours per exam, please plan accordingly. Books, notes, and calculators are not allowed on either exam. Students are encouraged to show as much work as possible on both exams: 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 portion of tutor exam

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 portion of tutor exam

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 scores, we will call you for an interview.  If you have any questions please e-mail mathcenter@unr.edu