Mathematics / Computer Science / Physics

Wartburg College Requirements for Mathematics Major

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MA 201 Calculus I
First college-level mathematics course for students with satisfactory preparation. Topics from algebra, plane analytic geometry, calculus. Emphasis on functions, limit of functions, continuity, derivatives, integrals, applications. Prerequisites: three years of high school mathematics (including one semester trigonometry) or MA 190.

MA 202 Calculus II
Methods of integration, infinite series, first order linear differential equations, additional work with fundamental concepts of analytic geometry and both differential and integral calculus. Prerequisite: MA 201.

MA 203 Multivariable Calculus
Emphasis on functions of several variables, vector calculus, analytic geometry of three space, partial derivatives, multiple integrals. Prerequisite: MA 202.

MA 301 Linear Algebra
Systems of linear equations, linear transformations, determinants, algebra of matrices, theory of finite dimensional vector spaces. Computer use enhances topics. Prerequisite: MA 202.

MA 461 Perspectives in Mathematics (1/2 course credit)
Readings in history and philosophy of mathematics and current issues involving mathematics in society. Required weekly written evaluations of readings and a longer paper. Weekly discussions related to reading. Writing intensive. Mathematics and mathematics education capstone. Prerequisite: fourth-year standing or final Fall Term on campus.

CS 120 Introduction to Computers and Programming
Foundation in structured and object-oriented programming methodology with a language such as C++. Special emphasis on decision and looping structures, procedures and functions used in development of computer programs. Focus on algorithm development and a variety of applications provides basis for more advanced courses. Prerequisite:
MA 90 competency. Fall and May Terms.

MA 300 Foundations of Analysis
Bridge between calculus sequence and advanced mathematics, attempting to foster "mathematical maturity," appreciation of mathematics, competence working with complex mathematical statements, ability to write and comprehend mathematical proofs, skill in thinking and communicating in standard mathematical style and terminology. Prerequisite: MA 202. Winter Term 2001 and alternate years.

MA 302 Algebraic Structures
Introduction to abstract structures called groups, rings, integral domains, fields, which are extensions of algebra topics studied in high school. Background for graduate studies in mathematics and computer science and preparation for secondary teaching and other math-related careers. Prerequisites: MA 202, third-year standing. Fall Term 2001 and alternate years.

MA 303 Discrete Structures
Graph theory, combinatorics, applications of sets, algebra. Useful to students in applied mathematics and computer science. Use of results and techniques from these areas to solve a variety of problems in finite mathematics. Additional topics may include recurrence relations, coding theory, finite state machines, Boolean algebra. Prerequisite: MA 202. Winter Term 2002 and alternate years.

MA 304 Modern Geometries
Rigorous treatment of the foundations of Euclidean geometry and introduction to hyperbolic geometry. Solid axiomatic development of various geometries and introduction of historical and philosophical implications of non-Euclidean geometry. Examination of geometry as a description of the physical world. Recommended for students planning to teach secondary mathematics. Prerequisite: MA 202. Fall Term 2002 and alternate years.

MA 305 Advanced Calculus
Reinforcement and solidification of learned calculus concepts. Emphasis on a greater depth of understanding. New topics include compactness, uniform continuity, uniform convergence. Prerequisite: MA 203. Winter Term 2002 and alternate years.

MA 307 Mathematical Modeling
"Real world" mathematical modeling situations. Challenges students to construct and/or select models creatively and analyze how well these models work. Emphasis on importance of using existing models and techniques and the necessity of adequately testing and refining results. Prerequisite: MA 202 (MA 301, CS 120 recommended). May Term 2002.

MA 313 Mathematical Probability and Statistics
Study of theoretical probability distributions that are models of empirical distributions of data generated through counts or measurements. Elementary probability and counting techniques, such as permutations and combinations. Continuous random variables modeling waiting time, lifetimes of components, masses of particles. Prerequisite: MA 202.

MA 371, 372 Internship (variable credit)
Integration of classroom theory with planned and supervised periods of progressively challenging employment related to students' career objectives. Generally, students enrolled in MA 371 are expected to enroll in 372. Course credit applied toward a major requires departmental approval. Prerequisites: third- or fourth-year standing, MA 203 or 301, 2.5 grade point average, cumulative and in major; department chair approval. P/D/F only. Possible off-campus costs

MA 401 Differential Equations
Differential equations as a mathematical modeling technique and a solution technique for solving applied problems. Methods for solving differential equations, related concepts, theory, application. Prerequisite: MA 203. Fall Term 2001 and alternate years.

MA 402 Analytical Mechanics
Identical with PHY 402. Statics, kinematics, dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, Lagrange's equations, Hamilton's equations, oscillating systems, introduction to the mechanics of deformable bodies. Prerequisite: PHY 101 or 203. MA 401 recommended.

MA 403 Complex Variables
Differentiation and integration for functions of a complex variable and an alternate approach through power series expansions of such functions. Applications include fluid flow, electrostatics, boundary value problems, evaluation of real integrals. Prerequisite: MA 203. Winter Term 2001 and alternate years.

MA 409 Numerical Analysis
Solutions of mathematical problems on computers. Emphasis on numerical integration and differentiation. Seminar with student presentations. Prerequisites: MA 202, 301 (MA 203 recommended). May Term 2001 and alternate years.

This page is maintained by Dr. Josef Breutzmann. Send comments to: josef.breutzmann@wartburg.edu