Mathematical Sciences Department Courses
Honors Mathematics
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HMA270* HNR MA History of Mathematics
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course - Honors) An examination of the history of mathematical thought from ancient times to the 20th century. Emphasis will be placed on the history of mathematical topics typically covered in the high school or early college curriculum. Register by Instructor.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course - Honors) An examination of the history of mathematical thought from ancient times to the 20th century. Emphasis will be placed on the history of mathematical topics typically covered in the high school or early college curriculum. Register by Instructor.
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HMA272* HNR MA Ethnomathematics
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course - Honors) An interdisciplinary study of the relationship between mathematics and culture. The mathematical content includes topics from number systems, graph theory, algebra, probability and geometry, and the cultural component investigates the mutual influences of culture and math upon each other. This course includes a week-long trip to Mexico to explore Mayan ruins, culture and mathematics. Register by Instructor.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course - Honors) An interdisciplinary study of the relationship between mathematics and culture. The mathematical content includes topics from number systems, graph theory, algebra, probability and geometry, and the cultural component investigates the mutual influences of culture and math upon each other. This course includes a week-long trip to Mexico to explore Mayan ruins, culture and mathematics. Register by Instructor.
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HMA275* HNR CE Mathematics in Music
- 4.00 credits. (Creative Expression Core Course - Honors) Participants will deepen and enrich their creative experience of music by learning about the principal ways that mathematical ideas are applied to the creation of music, and incorporating these ideas into their own creative repertoires. Of particular interest will be basic acoustical phenomena, tuning systems, and (especially) music theory and composition. Register by Instructor.
- 4.00 credits. (Creative Expression Core Course - Honors) Participants will deepen and enrich their creative experience of music by learning about the principal ways that mathematical ideas are applied to the creation of music, and incorporating these ideas into their own creative repertoires. Of particular interest will be basic acoustical phenomena, tuning systems, and (especially) music theory and composition. Register by Instructor.
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MA011 Intermediate Algebra
- 2.00 credits. An accelerated review of the fundamental algebraic and computational skills used in certain science courses and all math courses. Credits are not applicable to the 125 required for graduation. Fall semester.
- 2.00 credits. An accelerated review of the fundamental algebraic and computational skills used in certain science courses and all math courses. Credits are not applicable to the 125 required for graduation. Fall semester.
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MA105* MA Mathematics for Liberal Studies
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) An introduction to mathematical structures and applications designed to help students understand the historical and contemporary role of mathematics in everyday life. The course includes a substantial review of algebraic concepts, and topics from other areas such as logic, set theory, number systems, probability, graph theory and matrix algebra. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement. *No student who has received credit for a higher numbered Mathematics course may enroll in MA 105.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) An introduction to mathematical structures and applications designed to help students understand the historical and contemporary role of mathematics in everyday life. The course includes a substantial review of algebraic concepts, and topics from other areas such as logic, set theory, number systems, probability, graph theory and matrix algebra. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement. *No student who has received credit for a higher numbered Mathematics course may enroll in MA 105.
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MA110* MA College Algebra and Trigonometry
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) This course emphasizes algebraic and trigonometric concepts and their applications in the modern world, helping students prepare for further mathematical studies. The algebra of real numbers and the basics of trigonometry are studied in detail. Systems of equations, conic sections and sequences of real numbers are covered. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) This course emphasizes algebraic and trigonometric concepts and their applications in the modern world, helping students prepare for further mathematical studies. The algebra of real numbers and the basics of trigonometry are studied in detail. Systems of equations, conic sections and sequences of real numbers are covered. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement.
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MA117* MA Concepts of Calculus
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) Designed to give students in the biological, social and management sciences a firm working knowledge of calculus. The approach is intuitive, with emphasis on applications. Topics include differentiation, curve sketching, optimization, logarithmic and exponential functions, and integration. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement. Note: Students who have received credit for MA 121 may not enroll in this course.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) Designed to give students in the biological, social and management sciences a firm working knowledge of calculus. The approach is intuitive, with emphasis on applications. Topics include differentiation, curve sketching, optimization, logarithmic and exponential functions, and integration. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement. Note: Students who have received credit for MA 121 may not enroll in this course.
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MA121* MA Calculus I
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) A thorough introduction to the basic concepts and techniques of the differential and integral calculus of elementary functions, including a study of limits and continuity. Applications to the physical, biological and social sciences are studied in detail. *Prerequisite: MA 110 or placement. Note: Students who have received four credits for MA 117 receive two credits for this course.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) A thorough introduction to the basic concepts and techniques of the differential and integral calculus of elementary functions, including a study of limits and continuity. Applications to the physical, biological and social sciences are studied in detail. *Prerequisite: MA 110 or placement. Note: Students who have received four credits for MA 117 receive two credits for this course.
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MA122 Calculus II
- 4.00 credits. A continuation of Mathematics 121 involving the calculus of the trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic and rational functions. Analytic geometry in the plane, parametric equations, polar coordinates, sequences and series are included, and an in-depth study of integration is completed. *Prerequisite: MA 121.
- 4.00 credits. A continuation of Mathematics 121 involving the calculus of the trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic and rational functions. Analytic geometry in the plane, parametric equations, polar coordinates, sequences and series are included, and an in-depth study of integration is completed. *Prerequisite: MA 121.
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MA170 Special Topics in Mathematics
- No text available.
- No text available.
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MA201 Linear Algebra
- 3.00 credits. A presentation of the basic concepts and techniques of linear algebra including vectors, vector spaces, matrices, determinants, systems of linear equations, eigenvectors and linear transformations. Students will be expected to do mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite: MA 121.
- 3.00 credits. A presentation of the basic concepts and techniques of linear algebra including vectors, vector spaces, matrices, determinants, systems of linear equations, eigenvectors and linear transformations. Students will be expected to do mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite: MA 121.
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MA205 Fundamentals of Mathematics
- 4.00 credits. Topics include number properties, estimation, number theory, elementary functions (including exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions), matrices, quadratic inequalities, analyzing data, exploring chance and discovering geometric relationships. The course provides a foundation in knowledge of mathematics essential for teaching in the elementary schools as recommended by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. *Prerequisite: completion of Mathematics Core requirement.
- 4.00 credits. Topics include number properties, estimation, number theory, elementary functions (including exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions), matrices, quadratic inequalities, analyzing data, exploring chance and discovering geometric relationships. The course provides a foundation in knowledge of mathematics essential for teaching in the elementary schools as recommended by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. *Prerequisite: completion of Mathematics Core requirement.
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MA222 Calculus III
- 4.00 credits. A continuation of Mathematics 122, that completes the topics of the calculus sequence, including three-dimensional analytic geometry, vectors and vector valued functions, and calculus of functions of several variables. *Prerequisite: MA 122.
- 4.00 credits. A continuation of Mathematics 122, that completes the topics of the calculus sequence, including three-dimensional analytic geometry, vectors and vector valued functions, and calculus of functions of several variables. *Prerequisite: MA 122.
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MA235 Discrete Mathematics with Proofs
- 4.00 credits. Topics include logic, sets, functions, relations, mathematical induction, combinatorics and other counting techniques, graphs and trees. Special emphasis will be given to writing correct mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite: MA 122. Spring semester.
- 4.00 credits. Topics include logic, sets, functions, relations, mathematical induction, combinatorics and other counting techniques, graphs and trees. Special emphasis will be given to writing correct mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite: MA 122. Spring semester.
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MA251* MA Probability and Statistics
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) Covers the basic principles of descriptive statistics, experimental design and statistical inference. The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to statistical thinking and methodology, and their use in the natural and social sciences. This course includes an introduction to the use of the statistical software SPSS. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement.
- 4.00 credits. (Mathematics Core Course) Covers the basic principles of descriptive statistics, experimental design and statistical inference. The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to statistical thinking and methodology, and their use in the natural and social sciences. This course includes an introduction to the use of the statistical software SPSS. *Prerequisite: MA 011 or placement.
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MA252 Statistical Methods in Research
- 3.00 credits. A continuation of the study of statistical techniques used for analyzing problems arising in the natural and social sciences. The statistical computer software SPSS will be used, and students will pursue a research project that requires the completion of a statistical analysis culminating in the writing of a research report. *Prerequisite: MA 251.
- 3.00 credits. A continuation of the study of statistical techniques used for analyzing problems arising in the natural and social sciences. The statistical computer software SPSS will be used, and students will pursue a research project that requires the completion of a statistical analysis culminating in the writing of a research report. *Prerequisite: MA 251.
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MA255 Mathematics of Compound Interest
- 4.00 credits. This course introduces the mathematical foundations of interest theory and financial derivatives. Topics include: measurement of interest; annuities certain; yield rates; amortization schedules and sinking funds; bonds and related securities; yield curves, spot rates, and forward rates; convexity and immunization; derivative securities; forward contracts; put and call options, including put-call parity; hedging; futures; and swaps. This is a first course aimed at students preparing for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite: MA 117 or 121. Fall semester.
- 4.00 credits. This course introduces the mathematical foundations of interest theory and financial derivatives. Topics include: measurement of interest; annuities certain; yield rates; amortization schedules and sinking funds; bonds and related securities; yield curves, spot rates, and forward rates; convexity and immunization; derivative securities; forward contracts; put and call options, including put-call parity; hedging; futures; and swaps. This is a first course aimed at students preparing for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite: MA 117 or 121. Fall semester.
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MA256 Problem Solving in Interest Theory
- 3.00 credits. This is an intensive course based on the theorietical knowledge obtained in Mathematics 255. Numerous practical examples and problems will give the student a firm grasp of the underlying theory. The course is specifically geared towards the students' preparation for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite: MA 255. Spring semesters.
- 3.00 credits. This is an intensive course based on the theorietical knowledge obtained in Mathematics 255. Numerous practical examples and problems will give the student a firm grasp of the underlying theory. The course is specifically geared towards the students' preparation for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite: MA 255. Spring semesters.
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MA301 Abstract Algebra
- 4.00 credits. A study of algebraic structures, such as groups, rings, integral domains, fields, polynomial rings and ideals. Also included are topics from number theory, divisibility, congruence and construction of number systems. Selected advanced topics - such as series of groups, Sylow Theorems, unique factorization domains, and field extensions - also will be covered. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 235. Fall semester.
- 4.00 credits. A study of algebraic structures, such as groups, rings, integral domains, fields, polynomial rings and ideals. Also included are topics from number theory, divisibility, congruence and construction of number systems. Selected advanced topics - such as series of groups, Sylow Theorems, unique factorization domains, and field extensions - also will be covered. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 235. Fall semester.
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MA321 Differential Equations
- 4.00 credits. A study of analytical, numerical and qualitative approaches to ordinary differential equations and related applications. A computer lab component is included, in which the software package Maple is used to create graphs, implement numerical methods, and assist with routine algebraic tasks in the context of more extended applied problems. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 222. Spring semester.
- 4.00 credits. A study of analytical, numerical and qualitative approaches to ordinary differential equations and related applications. A computer lab component is included, in which the software package Maple is used to create graphs, implement numerical methods, and assist with routine algebraic tasks in the context of more extended applied problems. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 222. Spring semester.
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MA331 Operations Research
- 3.00 credits. A study of mathematical techniques and models used to solve problems from business, management and various other areas. Topics include linear programming, integer programming, dynamic programming, queuing theory, decision analysis, network analysis and simulations. *Prerequisite: MA 201. Fall semester, even-numbered years.
- 3.00 credits. A study of mathematical techniques and models used to solve problems from business, management and various other areas. Topics include linear programming, integer programming, dynamic programming, queuing theory, decision analysis, network analysis and simulations. *Prerequisite: MA 201. Fall semester, even-numbered years.
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MA341 Modern Geometry
- 3.00 credits. The concept of geometry as a logical system based upon postulates and undefined elements, along with an appreciation of the historical evolution of geometries. Topics include incidence geometries, planes and space, congruence, inequalities, parallel postulates, parallel projections, similarities, circles and additional theorems. *Prerequisite: MA 235. Fall semester, odd-numbered years.
- 3.00 credits. The concept of geometry as a logical system based upon postulates and undefined elements, along with an appreciation of the historical evolution of geometries. Topics include incidence geometries, planes and space, congruence, inequalities, parallel postulates, parallel projections, similarities, circles and additional theorems. *Prerequisite: MA 235. Fall semester, odd-numbered years.
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MA351 Theory of Probability
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theory of probability. Topics include the basic principles of combinatorial analysis useful in computing probabilities, conditional probability, independence of events, Bayes' Rule, discrete and continuous random variables, jointly distributed random variables, expected values and variances, and limit theorems involving sums of independent random variables. *Prerequisites: MA 222 and 235. Fall semester.
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theory of probability. Topics include the basic principles of combinatorial analysis useful in computing probabilities, conditional probability, independence of events, Bayes' Rule, discrete and continuous random variables, jointly distributed random variables, expected values and variances, and limit theorems involving sums of independent random variables. *Prerequisites: MA 222 and 235. Fall semester.
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MA352 Mathematical Statistics
- 3.00 credits. A study of principles of statistical inference in the theory of statistics, with an emphasis on estimation, hypothesis testing and nonparametric statistics. The objective of this course is to build a solid undergraduate foundation in statistical theory and to provide an indication of the relevance and importance of the theory in solving practical problems. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 351. Spring semester.
- 3.00 credits. A study of principles of statistical inference in the theory of statistics, with an emphasis on estimation, hypothesis testing and nonparametric statistics. The objective of this course is to build a solid undergraduate foundation in statistical theory and to provide an indication of the relevance and importance of the theory in solving practical problems. *Prerequisites: MA 201 and 351. Spring semester.
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MA355 Problem Solving in Actuarial Science
- 3.00 credits. Fundamental mathematical tools for quantitatively assessing and managing risk are developed. A basic knowledge of calculus and probability is assumed. Specifically geared towards the student's preparation for the Actuarial Examination P. *Prerequisite: MA 351. Spring semester.
- 3.00 credits. Fundamental mathematical tools for quantitatively assessing and managing risk are developed. A basic knowledge of calculus and probability is assumed. Specifically geared towards the student's preparation for the Actuarial Examination P. *Prerequisite: MA 351. Spring semester.
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MA362 Numerical Analysis
- 3.00 credits. A study of iterative methods suitable for computer programming that are useful in solving a variety of mathematical problems arising in the sciences, including actuarial science. Topics include solutions of equations in one variable, numerical integration, polynomial approximation, solution of linear systems, and numerical methods in matrix algebra. *Prerequisites: MA 201, 222, and CS 121. Fall semester, odd-numbered years.
- 3.00 credits. A study of iterative methods suitable for computer programming that are useful in solving a variety of mathematical problems arising in the sciences, including actuarial science. Topics include solutions of equations in one variable, numerical integration, polynomial approximation, solution of linear systems, and numerical methods in matrix algebra. *Prerequisites: MA 201, 222, and CS 121. Fall semester, odd-numbered years.
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MA370 Special Topics in Math
- Variable credit. Topics of special interest to advanced undergraduate mathematics students. *Prerequisite: permission of the Department Chair. Register by Instructor.
- Variable credit. Topics of special interest to advanced undergraduate mathematics students. *Prerequisite: permission of the Department Chair. Register by Instructor.
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MA400 Senior Project
- Variable credit. An intensive, individual project, which must involve material not covered in regular course offerings, and be approved and guided by a faculty member. The student writes a paper (involving original exposition, original research or both) and presents her/his findings orally. To earn four credits for this course, a student must make an approved oral presentation outside of Elizabethtown College. Completion of this course does not assure recognition for Honors in the Discipline. *Prerequisite: Invitation to Honors in the Discipline. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor.
- Variable credit. An intensive, individual project, which must involve material not covered in regular course offerings, and be approved and guided by a faculty member. The student writes a paper (involving original exposition, original research or both) and presents her/his findings orally. To earn four credits for this course, a student must make an approved oral presentation outside of Elizabethtown College. Completion of this course does not assure recognition for Honors in the Discipline. *Prerequisite: Invitation to Honors in the Discipline. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor.
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MA421 Real Analysis
- 4.00 credits. A rigorous study of the fundamental concepts of analysis, including such topics as sequences of real numbers, limits, continuity, differentiation and integration. *Prerequisites: MA 201, 222 and 235. Fall semester.
- 4.00 credits. A rigorous study of the fundamental concepts of analysis, including such topics as sequences of real numbers, limits, continuity, differentiation and integration. *Prerequisites: MA 201, 222 and 235. Fall semester.
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MA425 Complex Variables
- 3.00 credits. A study of complex numbers, analytic functions, Cauchy's Theorem, the maximum modulus theorem, harmonic functions, power series, Laurent's series, calculation of residues, evaluation of real integrals, and conformal mappings. *Prerequisites: MA 222 and 235. Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
- 3.00 credits. A study of complex numbers, analytic functions, Cauchy's Theorem, the maximum modulus theorem, harmonic functions, power series, Laurent's series, calculation of residues, evaluation of real integrals, and conformal mappings. *Prerequisites: MA 222 and 235. Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
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MA441 Topology
- 3.00 credits. A rigorous introduction to the elements of point-set topology, including infinite cardinalities; abstract topological spaces; abstract continuity; separation and closure of sets in topological spaces; connectedness and compactness. More advanced topics in topology may be included as well, depending on time constraints and the interests of the instructor. *Prerequisites: MA 122 and 235. Spring semester, even-numbered years.
- 3.00 credits. A rigorous introduction to the elements of point-set topology, including infinite cardinalities; abstract topological spaces; abstract continuity; separation and closure of sets in topological spaces; connectedness and compactness. More advanced topics in topology may be included as well, depending on time constraints and the interests of the instructor. *Prerequisites: MA 122 and 235. Spring semester, even-numbered years.
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MA457 Actuarial Models - Financial Economics
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain financial models used by actuaries. Topics include interest rate models, rational valuation of derivative securities, and risk management techniques. *Prerequisites: MA 255 and 352. Spring semester, even-numbered years.
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain financial models used by actuaries. Topics include interest rate models, rational valuation of derivative securities, and risk management techniques. *Prerequisites: MA 255 and 352. Spring semester, even-numbered years.
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MA458 Actuarial Models - Life Contingencies
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain actuarial models and the application of those models to insurance and other financial risks. Topics include survival models, Markov Chain models, life insurances and annuities, and Poisson processes. *Prerequisites: MA 255 and 352. Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
- 4.00 credits. A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain actuarial models and the application of those models to insurance and other financial risks. Topics include survival models, Markov Chain models, life insurances and annuities, and Poisson processes. *Prerequisites: MA 255 and 352. Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
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MA471 Internship in Mathematics
- Variable credit. Opportunity for students to intern in a mathematical setting. Register by Instructor.
- Variable credit. Opportunity for students to intern in a mathematical setting. Register by Instructor.
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MA484 Independent Study in Math
- Variable credit. *Prerequisites: approval of Department Chair and Independent Study Committee. Register by Instructor.
- Variable credit. *Prerequisites: approval of Department Chair and Independent Study Committee. Register by Instructor.





















