MATHEMATICS (MA)

1998-1999 Bulletin Information


MA 100 Mathematics in Society 3 cr

An introduction and real life applications to the mathematics of finance, probability, and
descriptive statistics with particular emphasis on mathematics of finance. Specific topics include
geometric progressions, compound interest, annuities, perpetuities, permutations, combinations,
probability measure, and statistical measures of central location and dispersion. Prerequisites:
Two years of high school algebra or equivalent. This course does not satisfy the math
requirement for the College of Arts and Sciences.
MA 101 Introduction to Mathematical Thought 3 cr
A course designed to give the nonscience major - especially humanities and fine arts
majors - an appreciation of the method, content, and scope of mathematics. This course does not
satisfy the math requirement for the College of Arts and Sciences.
MA 110 Finite Mathematics 3 cr
This course is intended to give an overview of topics in
finite mathematics together with their applications. The course includes logic, sets, counting,
permutations, combinations, basic probability, descriptive statistics, matrices and their
applications. Students are required to have a scientific calculator. Prerequisites: Two years of
high school algebra (I & II) and a year of geometry.

NOTE: The three courses listed above are not prerequisites for nor are they intended to be
preparatory for any course listed below. Students who do not have the prerequisites for MA 110
or 112 should contract Developmental Studies.

MA 112 Precalculus Algebra 3 cr
Study of use of variable quantities to interpret information about relationships that can be
expressed in mathematical terms. Linear, polynomial, absolute value, rational, exponential and
logarithmic functions with emphasis on numerical, graphical and algebraic properties and
applications and use in modeling real world situations. Systems of linear equations. Graphing
calculator required. Credit for both MA 112 and MA 115 not allowed. Prerequisites: Two years
of high school algebra (I & II) and a year of geometry.
MA 113 Precalculus Trigonometry 3 cr
Continuation of MA 112. Numerical, graphical and algebraic properties of polynomial,
rational and trigonometric functions. Parametric equations, right angle trigonometry, inverse
trigonometric functions. Polar coordinates. Conic sections. Development and use of
mathematical models to solve problems which concern real-world situations emphasized.
Graphing calculator required. Credit for both MA 113 and MA 115 not allowed. Prerequisite:
MA 112.
MA 115 Precalculus Algebra and Trigonometry 4 cr
Study of elementary functions, their graphs and applications, including polynomial,
rational, algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. This fast-paced course
is designed as a review of the algebra and trigonometry needed in calculus. Students are required
to have a graphing calculator.
MA 120 Calculus and Its Applications 3 cr
Introduction to calculus with an emphasis on problem solving and applications. Key
concepts are presented graphically, numerically and algebraically, although the stress is on a
clear understanding of graphs and tabular data. The course covers: algebraic, exponential and
logarithmic functions, their properties and their use in modeling; the concepts of derivative and
definite integral and their applications to marginal analysis, optimization and probability;
examples of multivariable functions, partial derivatives and applications to optimization
problems. Students are required to have a graphing calculator. Credit for both MA 120 and MA
125 not allowed. Prerequisite: MA 112 or equivalent.
MA 125 Calculus I 4 cr
Introduction to calculus with emphasis on presenting the key concepts graphically,
numerically, and algebraically. Limit of a function; the derivatives of algebraic, trigonometric,
exponential, and logarithmic functions; applications of the logarithmic functions; applications of
the derivative to curve sketching; optimization problems including examples in the
physical/natural sciences and economics; introduction of the definite integral; Fundamental
Theorem of Integral Calculus. Students are required to have a graphing calculator. Credit for
both MA 120 and MA 125 not allowed. Prerequisite: MA 115 or MA 113.
MA 126 Calculus II 4 cr
A continuation of MA 125. Techniques of symbolic and numerical integration;
applications of the definite integral to geometry, physics, economics, and probability;
indeterminate forms; improper integrals; introduction to differential equations; sequences and
series; Taylor polynomials and Taylor series. Vectors and geometry. Students are required to
have a graphing calculator. Prerequisite: MA 125.
MA 150 Contemporary Mathematics and Statistics Seminar 1 cr
This course gives an overview of modern mathematics and statistics from the point of
view of the practitioners. The course is designed for majors in mathematics and statistics at all
levels as well as those students who are considering mathematics or statistics as a major or minor
area of study. Topics usually included are elements of geometry, algebra, analysis, methods of
statistical inference, the role of the computer in the analytical sciences; these topics vary from
semester to semester. This course cannot be taken for credit simultaneously with ST 150, but
may be repeated in different semesters.
MA 201 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I 3 cr
An examination of some of the major ideas encountered in the teaching of elementary
mathematics. Topics include introduction to problem solving, sets, relations, logic, numeration
systems, elementary number theory, properties and operations for whole numbers, integers,
rational numbers, and real numbers. Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the General Studies
mathematics requirement.

NOTE: MA 201 does not fulfill graduation requirements for any curriculum other than
College of Education.

MA 202 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II 3 cr
Topics covered are those that a prospective elementary or middle school teacher should
expect to encounter in the teaching of geometry in elementary or middle school. Topics include
geometric shapes, measurement, triangle congruence and similarity, coordinate geometry,
geometric transformations. Prerequisite: MA 201.

NOTE: MA 202 does not fulfill requirements for any curriculum other than College of
Education.

MA 227 Calculus III 4 cr
Vectors; functions of several variables; partial derivatives; local linearity; directional
derivatives; the gradient; differential of a function; the chain rule; higher order partial
derivatives; quadratic approximations; optimization of functions of several variables; multiple
integrals and their applications; parametric curves and surfaces; vector fields; line and surface
integrals; vector calculus. Students are required to have a graphing calculator. Prerequisite: MA
126.
MA 237 Linear Algebra I 3 cr
An introduction to linear algebra. Topics include vector spaces, linear transformations,
determinants, the eigenvalue problem and applications. Prerequisite: MA 126.
MA 238 Applied Differential Equations I 3 cr
First order differential equations. Higher order linear differential equations. Systems of
first order linear differential equations. Laplace Transforms. Methods for approximating
solutions to first order differential equations. Applications. Students are required to have a
graphing calculator. Corequisite: MA 227.
MA 267 Discrete Mathematical Structures 3 cr
This course is an introduction to discrete mathematics for students majoring in
computer-related areas. Students will be introduced to concepts and methods that are essential to
theoretical computer science. A strong emphasis is placed on developing skills in mathe-matical
reasoning and understanding and writing proofs. Topics include sets, functions, induction,
recursion, combinatorics and graphs. Prerequisite: MA 125 or MA 120, or consent of instructor.
MA 290 Special Topics 1-3 cr
Selected topics in elementary undergraduate mathematics.
MA 303 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers III 3 cr
An exploration of problem solving strategies. Problems exemplify-ing the various
problem solving strategies studied. Emphasis on the development of problem solving skills by
exploring interesting problems which demand for their solution that the student select from a
wide variety of possible strategies and use a wide variety of conceptual tools. Prerequisite: MA
202.

NOTE: MA 303 does not fulfill graduation requirements for any curriculum other than
elementary education.

MA 311 Introduction to Number Theory 3 cr
An introduction to classical number theory with a balance between theory and
computation. Topics include mathematical induction, divisibility properties, properties of prime
numbers, the theory of congruences, number theoretic functions, continued fractions.
Prerequisite: MA 126.
MA 316 Linear Algebra II 3 cr
A continuation of MA 237. Topics include inner product spaces, spectral theorem for
symmetric operators, complex vector spaces, Jordan canonical form. Additional topics such as
duality and tensor products to be included at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: MA
237.
MA 318 Matrix Theory 3 cr
A theoretical as well as computational treatment of the notions of determinant, inverse,
rank and diagonalization of a matrix with real or complex entries. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors,
similarity, solutions of linear systems of algebraic equations, Jordan canonical forms. Students
are required to have a graphing calculator. Prerequisite: MA 126.
MA 320 Foundations of Mathematics (W) 3 cr
The students will develop facility with proof through the study of logic and proof
techniques as applied to various areas of mathematics. Topics include symbolic logic, proof
techniques, relations, functions, and structure of the number system. Pre-requisite: MA 126.
MA 321 Elementary Geometry 3 cr
The students will review the major topics (from the secondary school curriculum) of
plane and solid geometry from the modern viewpoint; axioms, undefined terms, definitions,
theorems and proofs. Prerequisite: MA 320.
MA 332 Differential Equations II 3 cr
Series solutions of second order linear equations. Numerical methods. Nonlinear
differential equations and stability. Partial differential equations and Fourier series.
Sturm-Liouville problems. Prerequisites: MA 227 and MA 238.
MA 334 Advanced Calculus I 3 cr
This is the first of a two course sequence designed to provide students with the theoretical
context of concepts encountered in MA 125 through MA 227. Topics covered include
Completeness Axiom, sequences of real numbers, suprema and infima, Cauchy sequences, open
sets and accumulation points in Euclidean space, completeness of Euclidean space, series of real
numbers and vectors, compactness, Heine-Borel Theorem, connectedness, continuity, Extremum
Theorem, Intermediate Value Theorem, differentiation of functions of one variable.
Prerequisites: MA 227 and MA 237.
MA 335 Advanced Calculus II 3 cr
This is the second of a two course sequence designed to provide students with the
theoretical context of concepts encountered in MA 125 through MA 227. Topics covered include
integration of functions of one variable, pointwise and uniform convergence, integration and
differentiation of series, differentiable mappings of several variables, chain rule, product rule and
gradients, Mean Value Theorem, Taylor's Theorem, Inverse Function Theorem, Implicit
Function Theorem. Prerequisite: MA 334.
MA 354 Computer Assisted Mathematical Modeling (W) 3 cr
Formulation, development, testing and reporting of mathematical models of various real
world problems. Deterministic and stochastic models, optimization, simulation. Emphasis on the
careful mathe-matical formulations and the appropriate use of computer software, both as an aid
in the solution of mathematical problems and as a tool in the process of model evaluation,
simulation, reporting. A term project will be an important component of this course. The course
is taught in a laboratory setting with computers as lab equipment. Prerequisites: MA 227 and MA
238.
MA 367 Combinatorial Enumeration 3 cr
An introduction to the mathematical theory of counting. Basic counting principles,
permutations and combinations, partitions, recurrence relations, and a selection of more
advanced topics such as generating functions, combinatorial designs, Ramsey theory, or group
actions and Polya theory. Prerequisite: MA 126 or consent of instructor.
MA 410 History of Mathematics (W) 3 cr
Historical survey of the general development of mathematics with a balance of historical
perspective and mathematical structure. Prerequisites: Senior standing and permission of
department chair.
MA 413 Algebra I (W) 3 cr
An introduction to group theory and ring theory. Topics include permutations and
symmetries, subgroups, quotient groups, homo-morphisms, as well as examples of rings, integral
domains, and fields. Prerequisites: MA 237 and one of the following: MA 311, 320, 334.
MA 414 Algebra II (W) 3 cr
A continuation of MA 413 focusing on rings and fields. Topics include rings, ideals,
integral domains, fields and extension fields. Geometric constructions and Galois theory are
introduced. Prerequisite: MA 413.
MA 434 Topology 3 cr
An introduction to topology with emphasis on the geometric aspects of the subject.
Topics covered include surfaces, topological spaces, open and closed sets, continuity,
compactness, connectedness, product spaces, and identification and quotient spaces. Credit for
both MA 434 and MA 542 is not allowed. Prerequisite: MA 335.
MA 436 Numerical Analysis 3 cr
Selected numerical algorithms are analyzed. Topics include error analysis, machine
arithmetic, roundoff, root finding using fixed point methods, interpolation, numerical integration,
differential equations, eigenvalue/eigenvector problems, least squares analysis, boundary value
problems. Prerequisite: MA 227, credit for or concurrent registration in MA 238. Students are
also required to have proficiency in a programming language.
MA 437 Complex Variables 3 cr
Arithmetic of complex numbers; regions in the complex plane; limits, continuity, and
derivatives of complex functions; elementary complex functions; mappings by elementary
functions; contour integration; power series; Taylor series; Laurent series; calculus of residues;
conformal representation; applications. Credit for both MA 437 and MA 537 not allowed.
Prerequisite: MA 238.
MA 451 Probability 3 cr
A comprehensive introduction to probability, the mathematical theory used to model
uncertainty, covering the axioms of probability, random variables, expectation, classical discrete
and continuous families of probability models, the law of large numbers and the central limit
theorem. Credit for both MA 451 and MA 550 is not allowed. Prerequisites: MA 227 and either
MA 237 or MA 318.
MA 458 Operations Research (W) 3 cr
An introduction to linear programming. The course will include a study of the simplex
method as well as using computers to solve linear and nonlinear problems. As time permits,
topics covered will include sensitivity analysis, duality, integer programming, trans-portation,
assignment, transshipment, networks, game theory, Markov processes, queuing theory,
simulation, and forecasting. Credit for both MA 458 and MA 567 is not allowed. Prerequisites:
MA 227 and either MA 318 or 316.
MA 490 Special Topics 1-3 cr
Selected topics in advanced undergraduate mathematics. This course may be repeated for
a maximum of six credits.
MA 494 Directed Studies 1-3 cr
Directed individual study. May be repeated for a maximum of six credits. Prerequisites:
Permission of the department chair.
MA 501 Number Systems 3 cr
A case study of axiom systems and the deductive method for graduate students in
Mathematics Education. It is expected that students in this course will practice and improve their
logical skills, better understand proof as a mathematical activity, and study the similarities and
differences between several commonly utilized number systems. Prerequisite: MA 321 or MA
413 or permission of the instructor.
MA 502 Introduction to Abstract Algebra 3 cr
An introduction to the fundamental concepts of modern algebra such as groups, rings, and
fields through concrete examples. The course is designed for graduate students in the College of
Education. Prerequisite: MA 501.
MA 503 Introduction to Analysis 3 cr
A careful look at the elements, procedures, and applications of differential and integral
calculus. Prerequisites: MA 501 and one year of calculus.
MA 504 Introduction to Geometry 3 cr
An introduction to the foundations of geometry using both synthetic and metric
approaches. Euclidean, finite, projective, and hyperbolic geometries are discussed. The axioms
for various geometries are discussed.
MA 505 Mathematical Problem Solving 3 cr
An indepth activity-based approach to the methods and strategies for mathematical
problem solving for students in Mathematical Education. Problems selected from logic, algebra,
analysis, geometry, combinatorics, number theory and probability.
MA 507 Applicable Mathematics I 3 cr
A graduate-level introduction to topics of ordinary differential equations, partial
differential equations, and their applications in physics and engineering.
MA 508 Applicable Mathematics II 3 cr
A continuation of MA 507 with more emphasis on theory of partial differential equations,
as well as their applications in physics and engineering problems.
MA 511 Abstract Algebra I 3 cr
A graduate level introduction to group theory. Topics include quotient groups,
homomorphisms, group actions, Sylow theorems, composition series, simple groups, free groups,
fundamental theorem of abelian groups.
MA 512 Abstract Algebra II 3 cr
A graduate level introduction to ring theory and fields. Topics include ring
homomorphisms, quotient rings, ideals, rings of fractions, Euclidean domains, principal ideal
domains, unique factorization domains, modules, finite fields, field extensions. Prerequisites:
MA 511.
MA 515 Number Theory 3 cr
Modular arithmetic, arithmetic functions; prime numbers, algebraic number theory.
MA 516 Topics in Number Theory 3 cr
A second course in number theory, covering topics of interest to the students and
instructor. Prerequisite: MA 515.
MA 518 Linear Algebra I 3 cr
Fields, vector spaces, dual spaces, quotient spaces, multilinear forms, linear
transformations, algebras, adjoints, eigenvalues.
MA 519 Linear Algebra II 3 cr
Triangular form, nilpotence, Jordan form, inner products, self-adjoint transformations,
positive transformations, isometries, Spectral Theorem, polar decomposition, applications to
analysis. Prerequisite: MA 518.
MA 521 Discrete Mathematics 3 cr
Pigeonhole principle, basic counting techniques, binomial coeffi-cients,
inclusion-exclusion principle, recurrence relations, generating functions, systems of distinct
representatives, finite fields.
MA 525 Graph Theory 3 cr
Fundamental concepts, connectedness, graph coloring, planarity and Kuratowski's
theorem, four-color theorem, chromatic polynomial, Eulerian and Hamiltonian graphs, matching
theory, network flows, NP-complete graph problems, Markov chains, matroids.
MA 535 Real Analysis I 3 cr
An introduction to real analysis. Topics include the metric topology of the reals, limits
and continuity, differentiation, Riemann-Stieltjes integral. Prerequisite: An undergraduate course
in advanced calculus.
MA 536 Real Analysis II 3 cr
A continuation of MA 535. Topics covered include sequences and series of functions,
differentiation and integration in several variables, an introduction to differential forms and to the
Lebesgue integral. Prerequisite: MA 535.
MA 537 Complex Analysis 3 cr
Arithmetic of complex numbers; regions in the complex plane; limits, continuity, and
derivatives of complex functions; elementary complex functions; mappings by elementary
functions; contour integration; power series; Taylor series; Laurent series; calculus of residues;
conformal representation; applications. Credit for both MA 537 and MA 437 is not allowed.
Prerequisite: MA 238.
MA 538 Topics in Complex Analysis 3 cr
A second course in complex analysis, covering topics of interest to the students and
instructor. Prerequisite: MA 537.
MA 539 Measure Theory 3 cr
Foundations of the general theory of measure and integration, with particular attention to
the Lebesgue integral. Function spaces, product measure and Fubini's theorem, the
Radon-Nikodym theorem and applications to probability theory are discussed, and possibly
additional topics such as Haar measure or the Ergodic Theorem. Prerequisite: MA 536.
MA 540 Differential Geometry 3 cr
Local and global theory of curves and surfaces in three-dimensional space.
MA 542 Topology I 3 cr
An introduction to topology with emphasis on the geometric aspects of the subject.
Topics covered include surfaces, topological spaces, open and closed sets, continuity,
compactness, connectedness, product spaces, and identification and quotient spaces. Credit for
both MA 542 and MA 434 is not allowed.
MA 543 Topology II 3 cr
A continuation of MA 542. Topics covered include the fundamental group,
triangulations, classification of surfaces, simplicial homolo-gy, the Euler-Poincare formula, the
Borsuk-Ulam theorem, the Lefschetz fixed-point theorem, knot theory, and covering spaces.
Prerequisites: MA 542 or MA 434 and permission of the instructor.
MA 550 Probability 3 cr
A comprehensive introduction to probability, the mathematical theory used to model
uncertainty, covering the axioms of probability, random variables, expectation, classical discrete
and continuous families of probability models, the law of large numbers and the central limit
theorem. Credit for both MA 550 and MA 451 is not allowed. Prerequisites: MA 227 and MA
237 or MA 318.
MA 551 Theory of Statistics 3 cr
A comprehensive introduction to the mathematical foundations of statistics. Sufficient
statistics and information, Parameter estimation, maximum likelihood and moment estimation,
optimality properties of estimators and confidence intervals. Hypothesis testing, likelihood ratio
tests and power functions. Credit for both MA 551 and ST 470 is not allowed. Prerequisite: MA
451 or MA 550.
MA 555 Statistical Analysis I 3 cr
A first course in an integrated two-course sequence in applied statistical theory and
methods for research workers in technical fields. Coverage includes probability and basic
probability models, mathematical expectations, random sampling processes and central limit
theorem, estimation, hypothesis testing and power analysis, some applications of the theory of
least squares. Computer assisted data analysis is used.
MA 560 Statistical Analysis II 3 cr
A second course (continuation of MA 555) in an integrated two-course sequence in
applied statistical theory and methods for research workers in technical fields. Coverage includes
regression analysis, design and analysis of experiments, factorial experiments, analysis of
covariance, nonparametric analytical techniques, analysis of count data. Computer assisted data
analysis is used. Prerequisite: MA 555.
MA 565 Numerical Analysis 3 cr
An introduction to Numerical Analysis. Topics include error analysis, systems of linear
equations, nonlinear equations, integra-tion, ordinary differential equations among others.
Prerequisite: MA 535.
MA 567 Operations Research 3 cr
An introduction to linear programming. The course will include a study of the simplex
method as well as using computers to solve linear and nonlinear problems. As time permits,
topics covered will include sensitivity analysis, duality, integer programming, transpor-tation,
assignment, transshipment, network, game theory, Markov processes, queuing theory,
simulation, and forecasting. Credit for both MA 567 and MA 458 is not allowed. Prerequisites:
MA 227 and either MA 318 or MA 316.
MA 568 Topics in Operations Research 3 cr
A second course in operations research, covering topics of interest to the students and
instructor. Prerequisite: MA 567.
MA 571 Ordinary Differential Equations 3 cr
An introduction to ordinary differential equations from a dynamical systems perspective.
Topics include existence and uniqueness theorems, dependence on initial data, linear systems and
exponential of operators, stability of equilibria, Poincare-Bendixon theorem. Additional topics
such as applications to population dynamics, classical mechanics, periodic attractors among
others will be included at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: MA 518.
MA 572 Partial Differential Equations 3 cr
An introduction to partial differential equations emphasizing spectral methods. Topics
include elementary Hilbert spaces, Fourier series and integrals and their applications to the study
of the basic partial differential equations of mathematical physics. More advanced topics such as
asymptotic properties and regularity of solutions and nonlinear equations among others will be
included at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: MA 536.
MA 590 Special Topics 1-3 cr
Selected topics in elementary graduate mathematics. This course may be repeated for a
maximum of six credits.
MA 592 Seminar 1 cr
Student seminar. Topics covered vary. This course may be repeated indefinitely, but only
two credits count towards the degree. Grading system: satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
MA 594 Directed Studies 1-3 cr
Directed individual study. Prerequisite: Approval of the department chair.
MA 599 Thesis 1-6 cr
Prerequisite: Approval of research prospectus by Department Graduate Committee.

 

Department of Mathematics and Statistics

College of Arts and Sciences


USA Logo UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA
We welcome your questions and comments about our site. Please E-mail the Webmaster.
Last changed: Wednesday, June 16, 1999 03:21:48 PM
URL: http://www.southalabama.edu/bulletin/bulletin9899/courma.htm