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ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2016-2017
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analytical, and descriptive points of view. Topics include definite integrals,
approximation techniques, indefinite integrals, elementary differential equations,
modeling, Taylor polynomials, and infinite series. A working knowledge of
differentiation is assumed.
MA 240 Discrete Structures (1)
An introduction to concepts fundamental to the analysis of algorithms and their
realizations. Topics include set theory, induction, recursion, graphs, networks, and
Boolean algebra. Prerequisite: MA 231.
MA 293, 393, 493 Independent Study in Mathematics (½ or 1)
Directed study for advanced students in the major. Coursework may include directed
readings, inquiry, and/or research project in mathematics or statistics. Specific guidelines
concerning independent study projects appear in the “Exploration Term and Contract
Learning” section of this catalog.
MA 298, 398, 498 Teaching Experience in Mathematics (½ or 1)
A teaching experience course. Specific guidelines concerning teaching experiences
appear in the “Teaching Experiences” section of this catalog.
MA 305 Introduction to Computational Science (1)
An introduction to the use of computers to solve scientific and mathematical problems.
Focus will be split between programming basic numerical algorithms and the use of more
advanced, pre-programmed methods. (Also listed as PH 305.) Prerequisites: MA 232 and
PH 121.
MA 310 Calculus III (1)
A course in calculus emphasizing graphical, numerical, analytical, and descriptive points
of view. Topics include parametric equations, polar coordinates, vectors, multivariable
and vector-valued functions, partial derivatives, multiple integrals, vector fields, and line
integrals. Prerequisite: MA 232.
MA 311 Differential Equations (1)
An introduction to the study of ordinary differential equations with emphasis on solution
techniques and applications. Whenever possible, numerical, qualitative, and analytical
methods are discussed, and students are encouraged to make use of computers in solving
some of the problems. Prerequisite: MA 310.
MA 317 Linear Algebra (1)
Systems of equations, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues, matrix factorizations, vector
spaces, linear transformations, and applications. Prerequisite: MA 232.
MA 320 Geometry (1)
An investigation of Euclidean and Non-Euclidean geometry through an axiomatic
approach. Topics include axiomatic systems, formal Euclidean geometry, geometric
transformations, non-Euclidean geometries. Prerequisite: MA 232.