Mathematics and Computer Science Catalog Information


Programs offered

• Programs in Mathematics 

− Major in Mathematics (36 credits) 

− Minor in Mathematics (20 credits) 

− Mathematics Education major with a teaching license, grades 5-12 (42 credits plus 32 credits in education) 

− Mathematics Area of Specialization for Elementary Education majors, grades K-8 (see education) (20 credits)

• Programs in Computer Science 

− Major in Computer Science (44 credits) 

− Major in Computer Science with Management Information Systems emphasis (76 credits) 

− Minor in Computer Science (24 credits)


Mathematics

The math department provides learning experiences that prepare students to achieve the following outcomes:

• demonstrate an understanding of a wide variety of fundamental mathematical concepts and the nature of mathematical proof

• read mathematical literature and communicate mathematical ideas effectively both orally and in writing, using appropriate language, good notation, and sound mathematical reasoning

• apply mathematical knowledge from one branch of mathematics to another as well as to other disciplines

• use appropriate technology

• have good problem-solving skills, including the ability to formulate problems, solve them and interpret solutions

• understand the historical and cultural framework of mathematics and the relationship of mathematics to other sciences and to the needs of society in general

In addition, teaching majors will be able to:

• gather, analyze and interpret data in an unbiased manner

• demonstrate that they know and can apply the national and state standards for mathematics instruction

The mathematics department sponsors an honors program for exceptional students. For details, see the department chair.

A student’s initial placement in mathematics courses is determined on the basis of his or her high-school record. This list may be helpful:

• With one year algebra and one year geometry or less, the available mathematics options are MATH 97 – High School Algebra or MATH 105 – Exploring Mathematics.

• With algebra, geometry and higher algebra, options are MATH 105 – Exploring Mathematics, MATH 110 – Precalculus, MATH 203 – Mathematics for the Behavioral Sciences or MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics.

• With algebra, geometry and higher algebra senior math, options are MATH 121 – Calculus I, MATH 203 – Mathematics for the Behavioral Sciences or MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics.

Major in Mathematics

The requirements for a major in mathematics are 36 credits:

• MATH 121 – Calculus I, 4 credits

• MATH 122 – Calculus II, 4 credits

• MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, 4 credits

• MATH 223 – Calculus III, 4 credits 

• 20 credits numbered 300 or above which must include MATH 402 – Mathematics Senior Seminar, 2 credits, and either MATH 325 – Modern Algebra, 4 credits, or MATH 330 – Real Analysis I, 4 credits.

A maximum of 4 credits in Cooperative Education may be counted toward a major in mathematics.

Recommended courses for students interested in graduate school in mathematics include: 

• MATH 325 – Modern Algebra I, 4 credits

• MATH 330 – Real Analysis I, 4 credits

• MATH 328 – Complex Analysis, 4 credits

• MATH 425 – Modern Algebra II, 2 credits

• MATH 430 – Real Analysis II, 2 credits 

Minor in Mathematics

The requirements for a minor in mathematics are 20 credits:

• MATH 121 – Calculus I, 4 credits

• MATH 122 – Calculus II, 4 credits

• MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, 4 credits

• 8 additional credits numbered 200 or above to include at least one course numbered 300 or above. At most, 4 credits from MATH 250 – Pre-May Seminar or MATH 300 – May Seminar can be counted toward a minor in mathematics.

Mathematics Education Major with a Teaching License, Grades 5-12

The requirements for a mathematics education major with a teaching license, grades 5-12, are 42 credits plus 32 credits in education: 

• MATH 121 – Calculus I, 4 credits

• MATH 122 – Calculus II, 4 credits

• MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits

• MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, 4 credits

• MATH 223 – Calculus III, 4 credits

• MATH 315 – Probability and Mathematical Statistics, 4 credits

• MATH 320 – Geometry, 4 credits

• MATH 325 – Modern Algebra I, 4 credits

• MATH 402 – Senior Seminar, 2 credits

• 4 additional credits in mathematics, from courses numbered 300 or above 

• 4 credits in applied statistics chosen from the following:

– ECON 274 – Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics, 4 credits

– PSYC 230 – Statistics and Psychological Measurement, 4 credits

– SOC 228 – Research Methods and Statistics, 4 credits

• Successful completion of the secondary/K-12 curriculum requirements. The required methods of teaching course is EDUC 384 – Methods of Teaching in Mathematics, 4 credits.

A course in computer science is strongly recommended, such as CSC 104 – Software Applications or CSC 125 – Introduction to Computer Science.

Recommended supporting courses in mathematics for students with the following interests include: 

Physical science

• MATH 311 – Differential Equations, 4 credits

• MATH 312 – Applied Mathematics, 2 credits

• MATH 315 – Probability and Mathematical Statistics, 4 credits

• MATH 335 – Operations Management/Research, 4 credits

Social and behavioral science

• MATH 203 – Mathematics for the Behavioral Sciences, 4 credits

• MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits

• MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, 4 credits

• MATH 311 – Differential Equations, 4 credits

• MATH 315 – Probability and Mathematical Statistics, 4 credits

Elementary education

• MATH 102 – Fundamental Concepts of Modern Mathematics, 4 credits 

• MATH 121 – Calculus I, 4 credits

• MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits

• MATH 215 – Introduction to Probability and Statistics, 2 credits

• MATH 220 – Introduction to Geometry Concepts, 2 credits

Computer Science

The computer science department provides learning experiences that prepare students to achieve the following outcomes:

• demonstrate mastery of fundamental skills basic to computer science

• apply effectively the systems life-cycle process of analysis, design, implementation and testing when solving real-world problems

• communicate effectively with others either inside or outside the discipline, both orally and in writing

• work effectively as part of a team on various software projects

• be a lifelong learner who pursues continued professional development by seeking out knowledge and experiences beyond the classroom

• recognize the ethical and social implications of computer use, including a commitment to the ACM/IEEE Code of Ethics

Major in Computer Science

The requirements for a major in computer science are 44 credits: 

• CSC 125 – Introduction to Computer Science, 4 credits

• CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures, 4 credits

• CSC 240 – Introduction to C/C++, 2 credits

• CSC 245 – Introduction to UNIX/LINUX, 2 credits

• CSC 320 – Computer Systems and Organization, 4 credits

• CSC 330 – Introduction to Database Management, 4 credits

• 12 additional computer science credits numbered 300 or above

Required supporting courses:

• MATH 121 – Calculus I, 4 credits

• MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits

• 4 credits in statistics chosen from:

− MATH 205 – Introduction to Statistics, 4 credits

− PSYC 230 – Statistics and Psychological Measurement, 4 credits

− ECON 274 – Introduction to Business and Economic Statistics, 4 credits

A maximum of 4 credits in Cooperative Education may be counted toward a major in computer science.

Major in Computer Science with Management Information Systems Emphasis

The requirements for a major in computer science with a management information systems emphasis are 44 credits in the computer science major with an additional 32 credits from the School of Business. All courses required for the emphasis are listed on the management information systems pages of the catalog.

Minor in Computer Science

The requirements for a minor in computer science are 24 credits:

• CSC 125 – Introduction to Computer Science, 4 credits

• CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures, 4 credits

• 12 additional computer science credits, excluding CSC 104 – Software Applications. Eight of these 12 must be numbered 300 or above.

• MATH 207 – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits



Mathematics and Computer Science Courses


Mathematics Courses

MATH 97 – High School Algebra, no credit. D. Topics from high school algebra for students who did not complete Algebra II in high school or need a review of those topics.

MATH 102 – Fundamental Concepts of Modern Mathematics, 4 credits. E. Numeration, number systems, geometry and other topics addressed in the elementary school curriculum. Required for students majoring in elementary education.

MATH 105 K – Exploring Mathematics, 4 credits. E. This course uses real-world problems and situations to improve students’ problem-solving skills, to improve their ability to apply mathematics, and to enhance their appreciation of the importance of mathematics in our modern world. Topics will be chosen from voting theory, fair division, apportionment, scheduling, networking, probability, statistics, consumer mathematics, population growth, logic, game theory, and symmetry. This course can be used to fulfill the math exploration requirement.

MATH 110 K, A – Precalculus, 4 credits. E. A study of the function concept and properties of the polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Prerequisites: high school geometry and higher algebra

MATH 121 K, A – Calculus I, 4 credits. E. An introduction to the concepts of limit and continuity, the derivative and its applications and an introduction to the definite integral. Some review of trigonometry and analytic geometry is included. Prerequisite: MATH 110 – Precalculus or equivalent

MATH 122 K, A – Calculus II, 4 credits. E. Applications of the definite integral, techniques of integration, parametric equations, introduction to differential equations, sequences, series and Taylor and Maclaurin Series. Prerequisite: MATH 121 – Calculus I

MATH 203 K, A – Mathematics for the Behavioral Sciences, 4 credits. E. The course examines combinatorics, probability, matrices, systems of linear equations, linear inequalities and mathematics of finance. Examples and applications drawn from various behavioral sciences. Prerequisite: high school higher algebra

MATH 205 K – Introduction to Statistics, 4 credits. E. This is an introductory course in statistical methods for science and mathematics students. The object of this course is to provide students with a conceptual introduction to the field of statistics, including the determination of the appropriate procedures for data analysis and the proper interpretation of results. The theory will be illustrated by examples from biology, engineering, industry and medicine. In addition, a statistical software program will be used to facilitate the understanding of statistical concepts and analysis of data sets. Prerequisite: high school higher algebra

MATH 207 K, A – Discrete Mathematics, 4 credits. E. Logic, sets, functions, sequences and series, matrices, algorithms, methods of proof, combinatorics, recurrence relations, linear programming, graphs and trees. Prerequisite: high school higher algebra

MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, 4 credits. E. Vectors, matrix algebra, systems of linear equations, determinants, vector spaces, span and basis, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Also includes an introduction to proof. Prerequisite: MATH 122 – Calculus II or consent of the instructor

MATH 215 A – Introduction to Probability and Statistics, 2 credits. E2. Basic concepts of data analysis, randomness and uncertainty required for elementary mathematics specialization. Topics include: data collection, exploratory data analysis, measures of central tendency and spread, theoretical probabilities in simple and compound events, basics of experimental design, and evaluating predictions and arguments from data. Prerequisite: high school higher algebra or MATH 102 – Fundamental Concepts of Modern Mathematics or MATH 105 – Exploring Mathematics

MATH 220 A – Introduction to Geometry Concepts, 2 credits. E2. Basic geometry content for students seeking elementary mathematics specialization. Topics will include: deriving and describing shapes, characteristics of geometric objects, spatial reasoning with geometric models, elementary geometric transformations, analysis and presentation of geometric arguments, and measurement and estimation. Prerequisite: MATH 102 – Fundamental Concepts of Modern Mathematics

MATH 223 K – Calculus III, 4 credits. E. Multivariable calculus and applications, line integrals, surface integrals. Green’s Theorem, Stoke’s Theorem and the Divergence Theorem. Prerequisite: MATH 122 – Calculus II

MATH 250 – Pre-May Seminar, 4 credits. A2 (2010-2011). An introduction to the art and science of mathematics, the axiomatic system that forms its foundation, the historical factors that have influenced its development, its close ties to astronomy, the sciences, art and religion; and its role in the development of Western culture.

MATH 300 – May Seminar, 4 credits. MS (2010-2011). Four weeks of travel and study in Europe and Egypt providing firsthand experiences with many cultural implications of mathematics. Both the practical importance and the aesthetic value of mathematics are considered in visits to ancient monuments and ruins, Renaissance cathedrals, museums and universities. Prerequisite: MATH 250 – Pre-May Seminar

MATH 311 K – Differential Equations, 4 credits. E1. Differential equations and models, analytic solutions and approximations, second-order equations, harmonic oscillators, Laplace transforms and initial value problems. Prerequisite: MATH 122 – Calculus II

MATH 312 X – Applied Mathematics, 2 credits. B3. An introduction to Fourier and other methods for solving partial differential equations, including the heat, wave and potential equations and related boundary value problems. Prerequisites: MATH 210 – Linear Algebra, MATH 223 – Calculus III and MATH 311 – Differential Equations

MATH 315 – Probability and Mathematical Statistics, 4 credits. E2. Introduction to the basic concepts in probability theory, including discrete and continuous probability functions, independence, random variables, order statistics, expected value, variance and moment generating functions. Specific attention given to normal, Poisson and geometric distributions, as well as estimation and estimators. Prerequisite: MATH 223 – Calculus III

MATH 320 – Geometry, 4 credits. E2. Euclidean, non-Euclidean, projective and other geometries as time permits. Prerequisite: MATH 210 – Linear Algebra

MATH 325 – Modern Algebra I, 4 credits. E1. Introduction to basic algebraic systems: groups, rings, integral domains and fields. Special attention is given to the ring of integers. Prerequisite: MATH 210 – Linear Algebra

MATH 328 – Complex Analysis, 4 credits. A2 (2011-2012). The algebra and geometry of complex numbers, elementary analytic functions, complex functions defined by power series, differentiation and integration of complex functions with selected applications. Prerequisite: MATH 223 – Calculus III

MATH 330 – Real Analysis I, 4 credits. A2 (2010-2011). Sets, real numbers, sequences and convergence, limits of functions, continuity and differentiability, the Riemann integral, infinite series, and sequences and series of functions. Prerequisites: MATH 210 – Linear Algebra and MATH 223 – Calculus III

MATH 335, CSC 335, BUS 460 – Operations Management/Research, 4 credits. E1. An introduction to quantitative modeling, with applications to computer simulation and business resource management. Topics include linear and nonlinear programming, network analysis, game theory, deterministic and probabilistic models and queuing theory. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor. 

MATH 380 – Special Topics, 2 to 4 credits. D. Courses covering various topics of interest in this particular discipline are offered regularly. Contact department or program chair for more information.

MATH 390 – Cooperative Education, 2 to 8 credits. E. 

MATH 402 – Senior Seminar, 2 credits. E2. Required of all senior mathematics majors. With the guidance of faculty members, each student researches a topic and delivers an oral presentation, and prepares a paper on that topic. Prerequisite: senior standing in mathematics or permission

MATH 425 – Modern Algebra II, 2 credits. D. Further study of the basic algebraic systems introduced in MATH 325 – Modern Algebra I. Prerequisite: MATH 325 – Modern Algebra I

MATH 430 – Real Analysis II, 2 credits. D. Further study of topics listed under MATH 330 – Real Analysis I. Prerequisite: MATH 330 – Real Analysis I

MATH 480 – Independent Study, 1 to 2 credits. E. This course provides an opportunity for individual students to conduct in-depth research of a particular topic under the direct supervision of a faculty member. A seminar on non-routine problems sometimes is conducted. Prerequisite: Consent of faculty. Contact the department or program chair for more information.

Computer Science Courses

CSC 104 – Software Applications, 4 credits. E. An in-depth introduction to common applications of the microcomputer. The student will learn to use Windows, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation and database software. The class is taught in a lab setting. (Credit not given for a computer science major or minor.)

CSC 125 A – Introduction to Computer Science, 4 credits. E. The first course in the major/minor sequence. An introduction to the Java programming language, algorithm design, structured and object-oriented programming techniques. No prior programming experience is assumed. Prerequisite: higher algebra

CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures, 4 credits. E. Intermediate data structures and techniques of object-oriented and structured programming. Discrete data types and structures, including arrays, files, sets, lists, trees, hash tables, sorting and recursion. Small to medium-scale programs are developed. Prerequisite: CSC 125 – Introduction to Computer Science

CSC 240 – Introduction to C/C++, 2 credits. E1. This course provides an introduction to C++ programming for students who have already learned Java language. Programs in Java and C++ share a superficial resemblance to each other, but beneath the surface there lies a myriad of practical and philosophical differences. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures or consent of the instructor

CSC 245 – Introduction to UNIX/LINUX, 2 credits. E1. This course introduces the fundamentals of the UNIX operating system to the PC user. It provides a hands-on approach to take the student through the basics of UNIX system concepts, architecture and administration. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor

CSC 250 – Pre-May Seminar, 4 credits. 

CSC 320 – Computer Systems and Organization, 4 credits. E2. A study of computer architecture and assembly language programming. Highlights include: machine language programming, assembly and linkage processes, interrupts, memory management, macros, graphics, and mouse programming. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures

CSC 330 – Introduction to Database Management, 4 credits. E1. An introduction to database theory and practice. Topics include relational database design, ER modeling, normalization, SQL/embedded SQL, concurrency control, data warehousing and other emerging database technologies. Practical software engineering principles are emphasized through student projects. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures or consent of the instructor

CSC 335, MATH 335, BUS 460 – Operations Management/Research, 4 credits. E1. An introduction to quantitative modeling, with applications to computer simulation and business resource management. Topics include linear and nonlinear programming, network analysis, game theory, deterministic and probabilistic models and queuing theory. Prerequisite: consent of the instructor

CSC 340 – System Analysis and Design, 4 credits. A2 (2009-2010). An overview of the systems development process. Includes: tools/techniques for describing processes, data flows, data structures, file designs, input/output designs, program specifications and prototyping for systems. Discovery, problem-solving and communications skills as employed by the systems analyst are also covered. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures

CSC 345 – Computer Networks, 4 credits. E1. An introduction to the fundamental concepts in the design and implementation of computer communication networks. Topics include network topologies and applications, data link protocols, local area networks, routing and high-speed networks. Examples will be drawn primarily from ATM and TCP/IP protocols. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures or equivalent

CSC 374 – Digital Electronics and Microcomputers, 4 credits. E2. An introduction to digital electronics and microcomputer architecture. The course includes a three-hour lab in which students study existing electronic designs and develop their own projects. A final project, which involves both electronic hardware development and software programming, is a course requirement. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures

CSC 380 – Special Topics, 4 credits. D. An opportunity to study in depth an advanced topic of current interest. Students work as teams to complete several extended research projects.

CSC 390 – Cooperative Education, 2 to 8 credits. E. 

CSC 420 – Operating Systems, 4 credits. A2 (2009-2010). A study of how computers manage their resources. Highlights include concurrency, memory management, process and processor management and scheduling, device control, performance evaluation and system security. Several operating systems are compared, including a detailed analysis of the UNIX operating system. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures, CSC 245 – Introduction to UNIX/LINUX or consent of the instructor

CSC 430 – Compilers and Interpreters, 4 credits. A2. An introduction to programming language design and implementation. Topics include regular and context-free grammars, finite automata, parsing, static and dynamic scoping, type checking and code generation. Students will use compiler generation utilities to construct a compiler for a C or Pascal-like language. Prerequisite: CSC 225 – Fundamental Structures and CSC 320 – Computer Systems and Organization

CSC 480 – Independent Study, 1 to 4 credits. D. An opportunity for study beyond our current course offerings or for independent research under the guidance of a faculty member. Prerequisite: Consent of faculty. Contact the department or program chair for more information. 

Academics

Course Catalog