Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

How much math is required for MATLAB Fundamentals and Simulink for System and Algorithm Modeling?
For MATLAB Fundamentals, a basic understanding of linear algebra is helpful, as is knowledge of basic matrix operations. For Simulink for System and Algorithm Modeling, a basic understanding of ordinary differential equations is required to complete the exercises.

Do I need to complete precourse work?
We do not have any precourse work scheduled for any courses. Some of our courses do have prerequisites, however. For example, to attend the communications course Communication Systems Modeling with Simulink, you should have basic knowledge of Simulink or you should have attended Simulink for System and Algorithm Modeling or Model Management and Verification in Simulink.

How do I cancel my enrollment? Will I get a refund?

Tuition is fully refundable if we receive written notification (via mail or e-mail) of cancellation on or before 7 business days prior to the course.

If you cancel less than 7 business days prior to the course, we will refund 75% of the course tuition fee. If you fail to show up to the course without providing prior written notice, you will be charged for the full tuition. You may send a substitute in your place to avoid a fee.

If a training course cannot take place as scheduled due to circumstances beyond MathWorks reasonable control, you will receive a full refund for course fees that you have already paid.

How do I obtain a certificate of completion for the course?
Certificates of completion are e-mailed to all attendees at the end of each course.

Do MathWorks classes teach programming logic or C/C++?
The relevant courses will teach you how to program using the MATLAB language constructs, work with Simulink models, and develop Stateflow systems. Although C/C++ can be used to interface with MATLAB applications and create C-Mex functions, the courses do not cover how to program in C/C++. Certain courses, including Integrating Code with Simulink, Real-Time Workshop Fundamentals, and Deploying MATLAB Based Applications – Java Edition, require some knowledge of C even though C will not be taught.

How do I provide feedback on training?
Please provide any comments or suggestions on training by using the feedback form.

Training in Public Classrooms and at Your Facility

What time do the courses begin and end?
Courses at MathWorks training facilities are held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Timing for training at your own site may differ according to your scheduling needs.

What is the difference between e-learning and traditional classroom training?
E-learning and instructor-led training courses have identical content and materials, are taught live by MathWorks instructors, and occur at set times. The only difference is that e-learning courses are taught online. Classroom training takes place at a public training facility or at your facility, and enables attendees to interact face-to-face with other attendees and the instructor. These courses require one, two, or three full days' concentrated participation.

What is the difference between training at MathWorks and training at my company site?
Training courses at MathWorks are scheduled at fixed dates throughout the year, and are available to individuals and small groups. We provide the training facility and all the materials for attendees. MathWorks also offers customized training courses that can be taught at your own facility. This option is ideal for groups of 10 more attendees who want to optimize their use of MathWorks products, for example, when they have a project deadline looming. MathWorks instructors often incorporate company-specific or industry-specific examples into onsite training.

How do I schedule a course at my site?
1) Find out approximately how many people in your group will be attending the course, and consider when you'd like to have the training. Please review the system requirements for information about facility and software arrangements.
2) Identify products for which you'd like training. If you're not sure, contact us at 508-647-7000 or e-mail us at info@mathworks.com with a description of your application and industry.
3) Complete the training request form. The training group will contact you to answer your questions and begin course preparations.

Will the instructors concentrate on requested topics during the course?
Whenever possible, we will focus on topics that are of particular interest to attendees. If the course is taught at your site, it may be possible to focus on particular subjects. Any request of this nature should be made well in advance of the course date. Please contact your account representative for more information or to make a request.

How fast is the pace of the course?
The pace depends on the average ability level of the attendees. The instructor will assess each attendee's learning style and abilities and adjust the curriculum accordingly. For courses at your facility, we recommend that you group attendees of similar experience together whenever possible. If you expect that a course will have attendees with different levels of experience, please discuss this with your instructor beforehand.

What materials and documentation does MathWorks provide with each course?
Each attendee receives bound copies of the course notes and slides, a CD containing all examples and exercises used in the course and, where applicable, quick-reference job aids.

Can I bring in some examples for the instructor to review?
Yes. Usually, the instructors will not be able to look at the example during the course. The instructor may ask to bring it back to MathWorks and consult with our application staff. However, in some cases, attendees have brought in examples of significant interest to the other attendees, and these were used as course exercises. Any request of this nature should be made well in advance of the course date. Please contact your account representative for more information or to make a request.

Can we customize the training?
You can customize training at your own site only. To request customized training, complete the training request form.

Can I speak with the instructor before the course?
Yes, please contact your account representative to arrange a time to speak with the instructor.

Where does public training take place?
Training can be held at MathWorks headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts; public classrooms throughout North America; training facilities in France, Germany, Korea, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, China, India, Korea, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom; and at distributor sites worldwide. You can also schedule training at your own site.