Section
Mathematics

Course Descriptions


Mathematics course descriptions

MATH 103  Mathematical Ideas
The objectives of this course are to develop an appreciation for mathematics, to provide an insight into the methods of reasoning used by mathematicians, and to discuss its historical development. It is intended for the liberal arts student who has had little contact with mathematics. 

MATH 107  Mathematical Perspectives for Educators
This course will explore the fundamental concepts of geometry and algebra along with their historical development.  Computer topics that are useful for educators will also be addressed along with the historical development of personal computers.  This course is appropriate for any student who intends to teach at the elementary or middle school level.  This course does not count towards the core requirement in the Natural Sciences.

MATH 140  College Algebra
TThis course will explore techniques for solving a variety of algebraic equations including linear, quadratic, fractional, radical, exponential, and logarithmic equations.  In addition, inequalities, systems of equations, and variation and proportion will be studied.  This course is intended for any student who is preparing to take Pre-calculus or any other course requiring these algebraic skills.  Any student who has received credit for Pre-calculus (Math 150) or any higher level math course may not take this course for credit.

MATH 150  Pre-calculus
An in-depth study of functions and graphical analysis, including trigonometric, inverse trig, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, and rational functions.  The binomial expansion will be developed.  A student who has successfully taken calculus in high school may not take this course for credit. 

MATH 160  Calculus I
This first semester calculus course will introduce topics in the differentiation and integration of functions of one variable. These topics include limits, continuity, differentiation, integration, the mean value theorem and the fundamental theorem of calculus. Prerequisite: adequate preparation in trigonometry and analytic geometry. 

StudentMATH 161  Calculus II
This second semester calculus course continues the development of single variable calculus.  Topics include applications of integration, integration techniques and infinite series. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 212.  Offered every spring.

MATH 214  Calculus III
This third semester calculus  course introduces the concepts of three-dimensional space and calculus of several variables, including partial differentiation and multiple integrals.  Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 213. Offered every fall.

MATH 220  Statistics for the Social and Behavioral Sciences
Meaning, purposes and processes of statistical methods; selection of representative, parallel or equivalent groups; graphic representation; measures of central tendency; variability; normal distribution; probability; binomial coefficient; random sampling; confidence levels; inference; t-test, analysis of variance; chi square; correlation; Man-Whitney U Test. Theory and practice application of above operations with use of computer where applicable. This course does not count toward the requirements for the major or minor in mathematics.

MATH 224  Linear Algebra
An introductory course in linear algebra. Topics include linear equations, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues, linear transformations and vector spaces. Offered every fall.

MATH 240  Discrete Mathematics
This course develops basic symbolic logic and proof techniques, and introduces students to discrete structures including sets, relations, functions, matrices and graphs. Also includes an introduction to combinatorics and other mathematical topics related to the study of computer science.  Prerequisite: Math SAT score of 480 or better.  Offered every spring.

MATH 300  Differential Equations
A study of first-order and linear differential equations, linear systems and Laplace transforms.
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 213. Offered fall of alternate years.

MATH 350  Advanced Calculus   
A rigorous development of multivariable calculus and vector analysis. Topics include Green's, Stokes' and Gauss' theorems; vector fields; transformations and mappings. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 214. Offered in spring.

StudentMATH 402  History of Mathematics
A survey of how mathematics has developed over the past 5000 years, beginning with the origin of math in the ancient civilization of antiquity progressing through the twentieth century.  Considerable prominence is given to the lives of the people responsible for progress in the mathematical enterprise.  The course will concern itself primarily with mathematical content.

MATH 404  Real Analysis
This course provides an axiomatic construction of the real number system. Topics include sequences, Cauchy sequences, metric spaces, topology of the real line, continuity, completeness, connectedness and compactness, convergence and uniform convergence of functions, Riemann integration. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 213. Offered fall of alternate years.

MATH 407  Geometry
A study of Euclidean geometry and the axiomatic method, with an introduction to non-Euclidean geometries and Hilbert's axioms.

MATH 410  Teaching of Mathematics—Secondary Level
A variety of activities to facilitate the development of competent mathematics teachers and knowledge related to the development and implementation of strategies for teaching mathematics. These activities include the use of technology in the classroom as well as teaching benefits of both pure mathematics (as it relates to the development of analytical thinking) and applied mathematics with some treatment of word problem solving. Offered spring of alternate years.

MATH 414  Abstract Algebra
The properties of formal systems such as groups, rings and fields. The approach is axiomatic.  Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in MATH 240.  Offered fall of alternate years.

MATH 415  Topology
An introduction to topology. This course provides a basic introduction to the definitions and concepts of point set topology, and a brief introduction to algebraic topology (homotopy and the fundamental group).

MATH 422  Seminar
Study in the current literature and problems of mathematics.  Prerequisite: senior standing.

Computer science course descriptions

StudentCSC 150  Problem Solving With Computers
This course will teach students the skills of problem solving  and algorithmic thinking.  Topics include web development using HTML and scripting, the internet, UNIX, and some work in application software such as spreadsheets and databases. 

CSC 200  Introduction to Computer Programming
An introduction to computer programming using the C++ language. The course will teach the concepts of problem solving and procedural design, and will introduce object-oriented programming through the use of C++. Students will learn to design, code, test, debug and document computer programs.