Mathematics (MA)

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 Catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.norwich.edu/.

Courses

MA 005 Preparatory Mathematics 3 Cr.

A comprehensive review of the fundamentals of arithmetic and a presentation of the basic algebraic skills and concepts. Topics include basic arithmetic with signed numbers, proportions, percent, geometry, linear equations and graphing of linear equations. Applications are included throughout the course. Students assigned to MA005 must satisfactorily complete it before enrolling in any other mathematics course. If required, MA 005 must be completed by the end of the first year of study. This course will not meet any degree requirements and cannot be used as an elective. 3 lecture hours.

MA 095 Intermediate Algebra 3 Cr.

A comprehensive review of the fundamentals of algebraic skills and concepts, this course provides a strong foundation for subsequent mathematics-based courses. Topics include introduction to functions, polynomials, factoring, inequalities, systems of linear equations with two variables, integer exponents, and linear, quadratic, radical, and rational equations. Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in MA 005 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. This course will not meet any degree requirements and cannot be used as an elective. 3 lecture hours.

MA 101 Mathematics: A Liberal Art 3 Cr.

An investigation of mathematical concepts and methods with emphasis given to their impact on current and ancient problems. Topics include logic, counting problems, probability, geometry and mathematics of finance. Emphasis is on techniques of problem solving. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of MA 005 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not open for the first time to a student with a grade of "C" or higher in MA 107, or with credit for any mathematics course requiring MA 107 as a prerequisite. (Fall).

MA 102 Mathematics: A Liberal Art 3 Cr.

An investigation of mathematical concepts and methods with emphasis given to their impact on current and ancient problems. Topics include mathematics of voting systems, basic graph theory including Euler circuits and the traveling salesman problem, the mathematics of population growth, statistics, and finding fair shares. Emphasis is on techniques of problem solving. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of MA 005 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not open for the first time to a student with a grade of "C" or higher in MA 107, or with credit for any mathematics course requiring MA 107 as a prerequisite. (Spring).

MA 107 Precalculus Mathematics 4 Cr.

A course on topics in precalculus mathematics involving algebra and trigonometry designed to prepare students to progress into introductory calculus. It is a rapid development of elementary topics in algebra to linear, quadratic, logarithmic, and exponential functions, followed by an analytical treatment of trigonometry. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in MA 095 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not open for the first time to students with credit in any course requiring MA 107 as a prerequisite.

MA 108 Applied Calculus 4 Cr.

A course on topics in analytical geometry progressing to differential and integral calculus. Presentation of a wide variety of practical application to technology, business, and science. Prerequisite: MA 107 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not open for the first time to a student with credit in MA 121 or any course requiring MA 108 as a prerequisite. Not more than one of MA 108 or MA 121 may count as degree credit.

MA 121 Calculus I 4 Cr.

An introduction to plane analytic geometry and to differential and integral calculus. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in MA 107 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not more than one of MA 108 or MA 121 may count as degree credit.

MA 122 Calculus II 4 Cr.

A continuation of MA 121. Transcendental functions, methods of integration, vectors, polar coordinates, indeterminate forms, L'Hopital's Rule, improper integrals, infinite sequences and series. Prerequisite: MA 121 or "C" or better in MA 108 and permission of the department.

MA 160 Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers I 3 Cr.

This course will address an advanced perspective of topics in algebra and the real number system as they relate to the teaching and learning of mathematics. Course structure involves an emphasis on problem solving and communication; making, following and assessing mathematical argument; and developing an array of mathematical strategies and understandings which can be extended across K-6 mathematic. This course is open to education majors. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of MA 005 or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. This course does not meet Gen Ed Math requirements. (Fall, odd years).

MA 161 Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers II 3 Cr.

This course will address an advanced perspective of topics in geometry, measurement, statistics, data analysis, and probability as they relate to the teaching and learning of mathematics. Course structure involves an emphasis on problem solving and communication; making, following and assessing mathematical argument; and developing an array of mathematical strategies and understandings which can be extended across K-6 mathematics. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MA 160. (Spring, even years).

MA 188 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

MA 199 Mathmatics test course 4 Cr.

MA 1XL Mathematics Lab Transfer Elective 4 Cr.

This course is used for transfer when no equivalent Norwich course exists.

MA 1XX Mathematics Transfer Elective 4 Cr.

This course is used for transfer when no equivalent Norwich course exists.

MA 212 Finite Mathematics 3 Cr.

This course includes linear algebra with applications to systems of equations, linear programming, math of finance, sets, combinatorial analysis, and probability theory. Prerequisite: MA 107 or equivalent as determined by department placement testing. (Spring).

MA 220 Geometry in Action 3 Cr.

This course explores the use of geometry in art, architecture, and science through the study and application of associated mathematical ideas. Students will learn to represent objects and space in various coordinate systems and geometries as well as recognize mathematics in the surrounding world. Topics include two and three dimensional linear algebra, polar and parametric equations, graph theory, sequences, and Euclidean and Non-Euclidean geometry. Prerequisite: MA 107 or permission of the department.

MA 223 Calculus III 4 Cr.

A course that continues MA 122. Topics include multiple integration, solid analytic geometry, partial differentiation, two- and three- dimensional vector analysis. Prerequisite: MA 122. (Fall).

MA 224 Differential Equations 4 Cr.

Ordinary differential equations are developed as models of physical phenomena. Differential equations are investigated by finding exact solutions and using computer software to determine the solution to linear and non-linear problems. Solution techniques include operator methods, Laplace transforms, and numerical methods. Prerequisite: MA 122. (Spring).

MA 232 Elementary Statistics 3 Cr.

A course that covers the study of frequency distributions, averages and standard deviations, normal curve, probability, decision-making, sampling techniques, testing hypotheses, students-t -distributions, correlation and linear regression. This course is valuable for those who plan to enter teaching. Prerequisite: A college level mathematics course or equivalent as determined by departmental placement testing. Not open to students with credit in MA 311.

MA 236 Statistical Methods in Health Sciences 3 Cr.

A course that expands on concepts developed in MA232 by investigating more advanced statistical techniques with application to health related research. Topics include accuracy measures of screening tests, relative risk and odds ratio, Chi-square tests, ANOVA, non-parametric tests, multiple and logistic regression, and survival analysis. Emphasis will be placed on generating and interpreting the appropriate statistical software output. Prerequisite: MA 232 or permission of the department. GEMA. (Fall).

MA 240 Introduction to Number Theory and Cryptology 3 Cr.

An introduction to fundamental topics in number theory, including the real number system, prime numbers, modular arithmetic, the Euclidean Algorithm, Fermat's Theorem, Euler's Theorem, Euler's Phi Function. Topics will be applied to Caesar and affine ciphers and the Chinese Remainder Theorem. Prerequisite: MA 107, CS 140 or MA 241 or permission of the instructor. (Fall).

MA 241 Mathematical Computation and Modeling 3 Cr.

A course designed to introduce effective problem solving strategies and modeling techniques to find solutions to complex and often ill-defined problems. Introductory material chosen from common experiences encompassing many academic disciplines. Emphasis is placed on the development of mathematical models and computation on a variety of computing platforms and programming environments. Prerequisite: MA 108, MA 121 or permission of instructor. (Spring).

MA 250 Communication in Mathematics 1 Cr.

This course illustrates the organization of the mathematical literature, the efficient search of the literature and a formal introduction to writing mathematics. Prerequisite: Sophomore Mathematics Major or permission of the instructor.

MA 288 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

MA 2XX Mathematics Transfer Elective 3 Cr.

This course is used for transfer when no equivalent Norwich course exists.

MA 303 Advanced Calculus I 3 Cr.

A course that provides an extension of concepts of basic calculus to functions of several variables to include limits, continuity, differentiation, and Riemann integration. Treatment of selected topics not included in the basic calculus series as a foundation for more advanced courses in analysis and applied mathematics is also included. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 223 and either MA 306 or permission of the instructor. (Fall, even years).

MA 304 Advanced Calculus II 3 Cr.

A course that continues with the content of MA 303, including limits, continuity, differentiation, and Riemann integration. Treatment of selected topics not included in the basic calculus series as a foundation for more advanced courses in analysis and applied mathematics is also included. Prerequisite: MA 303. (Spring, odd years).

MA 306 Discrete Mathematics 3 Cr.

A course in logic, sets, techniques of proof, relations and functions, directed and undirected graphs, algebraic systems, Boolean algebra, and emphasis on applications in various areas of computer science. Prerequisite: MA 108 or MA 121 and knowledge of computer programming. (Fall).

MA 308 Modern Geometry 3 Cr.

A course in modern geometries that includes foundations of Euclidean geometry and the development of non-Euclidean geometries. Recommended for prospective teachers. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 108 or MA 121. (Spring and every third year).

MA 309 Algebraic Structures 3 Cr.

A course on groups, rings, fields, morphisms, vector spaces; special topics selected from group theory, algebraic number theory, field theory, Galois theory. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 306 or permission of the instructor. (Fall, odd years).

MA 310 Linear Algebra 3 Cr.

A theoretical course on such topics as matrices, determinants, linear equations, vector spaces, bases and dimensions, linear transformations, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors. Prerequisite: MA 121 or permission of the instructor. Offered spring semesters.

MA 311 Statistical Methodology 3 Cr.

Statistical Methodology: A course designed to provide a firm foundation for the employment of statistical methodology in engineering and the sciences. Examples drawn from the technical fields will be used throughout. The course will cover probability, continuous and discrete statistical distributions, estimation, tests of hypotheses, and sample regression. As time permits, other topics may be examined based on the interests of the students. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 223. (Fall).

MA 312 Statistical Methodology II 3 Cr.

Statistical Methodology II: A continuation of MA 311. Continued development of statistical techniques utilized in scientific and engineering research. Topics to be covered include regression, multiple regression, analysis of variance, experimental design, statistical quality control, time series/forecasting, and reliability analysis. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 311. (Spring, even years).

MA 318 Cryptology 3 Cr.

A course that covers fundamental mathematical concepts from modern algebra, number theory, and other areas of mathematics. Provides a foundation for the understanding of classical encryption systems and modern encryption methods. Emphasis on the mathematical underpinnings germane to cryptology. Prepares students for advanced study of modern cryptography. Experience implementing encryption, decryption and cryptanalytic methods on a variety of systems. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 240 and knowledge of a programming language or permission of instructor. (Spring).

MA 321 Financial Mathematics 3 Cr.

A course designed to extend the student’s understanding of the fundamental concepts of financial mathematics, and application of these concepts in calculating present and accumulated values for various streams of cash flows as a basis for future use in reserving, valuation, pricing, asset/liability management, investment income, capital budgeting and valuing contingent cash flows. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: MA 232 or MA 212. (Spring, odd years).

MA 332 Advanced Statistical Methods 3 Cr.

MA 360 Teaching Mathematics at the Elementary - Middle School Level 3 Cr.

A course in the content, methods, and materials for the teaching of elementary and middle school mathematics. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: Grade of C or higher in MA 161. (Fall, even years).

MA 361 Teaching Mathematics at the Secondary Level 3 Cr.

This course addresses methods, resources, and content useful for the teaching of secondary school mathematics. Investigations in this class will address mathematical thinking, communication and representations, in alignment with state and national standards. Course structure involves readings, writings, activities, assessments, and projects. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: MA 108 or MA 121 and ED 104, or consent of instructor. (Fall, odd years).

MA 370 Introduction to Operations Research 3 Cr.

A course that concentrates on the fundamental concepts and techniques necessary to enable an individual to obtain "optimal" solutions to problems in business, economics, engineering, and the physical and behavioral sciences. Topics include linear programming, network analysis, dynamic programming. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: MA 212 or MA 223. (Spring, odd years).

MA 380 Theory of Computation 3 Cr.

This course introduces the theory of computability, including important results from the study of automata and formal languages. Includes introductory material about the theory of directed graphs and trees. A discussion of automata and their relationship to regular, context free and context-sensitive languages. General theories of computability, including Turing machines, and recursive functions. Further topics include decidability, undecidability and computational complexity. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 306. (Spring, even years).

MA 388 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.

MA 390 Numerical Linear Algebra and Analysis 3 Cr.

Numerical techniques for solving problems in linear algebra and analysis. Topics to be studied include integration, interpolation, function approximation, solutions of systems of equations, locating Eigen values. Attention will be paid to the theoretical aspects of the techniques, with particular emphasis on estimation of errors and on convergence properties of iterative techniques. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: MA 241, MA 224. (Spring and every third year).

MA 399 Mathematical Problem Solving 3 Cr.

MA 3XX Mathematics Elective 6 Cr.

This course is used for transfer when no equivalent Norwich course exists.

MA 405 Complex Analysis 3 Cr.

A course in complex numbers, analytic functions, differentiation, and integration of complex functions, Taylor and Laurent series, evaluation of improper real integrals. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisites: MA 223 and either MA 306 or permission of the instructor. (Spring and every third year).

MA 407 Vector Analysis 3 Cr.

A course that analyzes scalar and vector fields. Topics included are Newtonian kinematics and Kepler's Law of Planetary Motion, gradient, divergence, curl, theorems of Green, Stokes, Gauss, curvilinear coordinates. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 223. (Fall, odd years).

MA 411 Senior Seminars 3 Cr.

Advanced study designed to develop student competence in working independently and to afford students an opportunity to pursue topics not otherwise offered by the department. This is the capstone course for the Mathematics Major. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: Senior standing in mathematics or permission of the instructor. Senior standing in mathmatics and a grade of C or higher in 4 math 300/400 level courses, or Dept. Chair permission.

MA 412 Senior Seminars 3 Cr.

Advanced study designed to enhance student competence in working independently and to afford students an opportunity to pursue topics not otherwise offered by the department. Topics may extend research performed in MA 411 or be a topic independent of MA 411. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 411.

MA 419 Internship in Mathematics 3 Cr.

A course designed to provide an internship on a topic chosen by mutual consent of the student and the instructor. A written report is required. Students may receive credit for not more than two internships as part of their mathematics program requirements. Students with a GPA below 2.5 will not be approved for this course. A minimum of 120 hours on the job work is required. Prerequisites: Junior 2 standing and permission of instructor and Department Chair.

MA 421 Number Theory 3 Cr.

A course in the properties of integers, prime numbers, congruencies, Diophantine equations, quadratic reciprocity. 3 lecture hours. Prerequisite: MA 306 or permission of the instructor. (Spring and every third year).

MA 488 No Norwich Equivalent 6 Cr.