Course Descriptions

Course Listings

107 Problem Solving (3)

This is a basic problem-solving course suitable for students in any major.  A survey of a wide variety of problem solving strategies.  Students successfully completing this course will effectively communicate mathematically, utilize various strategies in analyzing problems, and increase problem-solving persistence and sharpen problem-solving skills.

108 Modeling and Applications (3)

This is an algebra-based course with an emphasis on practical applications.  An examination of real-life models and their applications using algebra as a foundation.  Students successfully completing this course will effectively use algebra and technology to analyze models of real-world phenomena; effectively read, interpret and analyze problems; and gain quantitative literacy and confidence.

115 Finite Mathematics (3)

Matrices, systems of linear equations, linear programming using geometric and simplex methods, set theory, probability, Markov chains, and game theory.  Prerequisite:  Two years of high school algebra or Mathematics 107 or 108.

125 Precalculus (4)

A study of topics in algebra and trigonometry that are used in calculus.  Topics include functions, advanced algebra, logarithmic and exponential functions, and trigonometry.  Students who successfully complete this course will have the mathematics background needed to study calculus.  Prerequisite:  Two years of high school algebra or Mathematics 107 or 108.  Offered fall term.

217 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers (3)

This course explores mathematics for elementary and middle grades teachers.  Topics include sets, functions, logic, numeration, algorithms for basic computation, integers, rational numbers and their application, algebra concepts, probability and statistics.  The course also introduces the NCTM standards and the Nebraska content standards for K-12 students.  Upon successful completion, students will be able to present mathematics from a problem-solving perspective and integrate exploration and communication as methods of presenting mathematics to elementary and middle grades students.  Prerequisite:  Junior standing or permission.  Offered fall term.

218 Geometry for Teachers (3)

A study of geometric topics encountered in middle school and high school mathematics. Topics include the van Hiele theory, measurement, congruence and similarity, fractals, polyhedra, coordinate geometry, transformational geometry, and applications.  Students who successfully complete this course will be able to teach the geometric topics at all levels covered in public schools.  Prerequisite:  Two years of high school algebra or Mathematics 107 or 108.  Offered spring term.

An examination of the fundamentals of limits and differentiation, and an introduction to integration.  Students successfully completing this course will be able to:  1) conceptually understand the definitions of limit, derivative and integral,  2) apply the concepts of limits and differentiation to a variety of theoretical and real-life questions and  3) decisively utilize paper/pencil and technology-based problem-solving techniques.  Prerequisite:  High school precalculus (algebra and trigonometry) or MTH 125. (MTH 125 is recommended if ACT math score is 22 or lower.)

236 Calculus and Analytic Geometry II (4)

A continuation of MTH 235 focusing on integration and infinite series.  Students successfully completing this course will be able to: 1) solve integration problems using a variety of techniques, 2) conceptually understand infinite sequences and series, 3) apply these concepts to a variety of theoretical and real-life questions and 4) decisively utilize paper/pencil and technology-based problem-solving techniques. Prerequisite:  MTH 235.  Offered spring term.

250 Foundations in Mathematics (3)

An introduction to understanding and constructing the different types of mathematical proofs, inductive and deductive reasoning, functions, cardinality and the real number system.  Prerequisite:  Mathematics 235.  Offered spring term.

290, 390, 490 Directed Study (1-3)(1-3)(1-3)

An opportunity for supervised, independent study of a particular topic based on the interest of the student and the availability and approval of the faculty.  Students desiring advanced coursework in areas not regularly offered may do so by enrolling in a directed study.  Topics could include, for example, computer mathematics, topology, or advanced topics in abstract algebra, analysis, geometry, or mathematical statistics.  Seniors planning to pursue graduate study in mathematics are especially encouraged to consider this option.

303 Linear Algebra (3)

Vector spaces, systems of linear equations, linear transformations, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, vector spaces and inner product spaces.  Prerequisite:  Sophomore standing, Mathematics 235 (may be taken concurrently). Offered fall term.

323 Teaching of Mathematics-Geometry (0-1)

The beginning of the transition from student of mathematics to teacher of mathematics. Students successfully completing this course will: 1) understand philosophically the difference between teacher and student of mathematics, and 2) be capable of determining the difference between traditional Euclidean geometry topics for junior high/middle school and secondary students.  Generally taken during the sophomore year. Offered spring term.

324 Teaching of Mathematics-Junior High (0-1)

An examination of options and topics appropriate for seventh, eighth, and ninth grade mathematics courses. Students successfully completing this course will: 1) be able to determine topics appropriate for general mathematics courses at the junior high level, 2) be able to organize topics for pre-algebra preparation, and 3) become familiar with pedagogy for students of varying abilities. Generally taken during the junior year. Offered fall term.

325 Teaching of Mathematics- Algebra (0-1)

An examination of algebra topics from beginning to advanced algebra. Students successfully completing this course will: 1) understand appropriate pedagogy for beginning algebra students, 2) be able to assess the background of students entering their first full year of algebra, and 3) determine how to integrate algebra into other mathematics courses. Generally taken during the junior year. Offered spring term.

326 Teaching of Mathematics (4)

A selection of topics not covered in Mathematics 323, 324, or 325.  Various teaching approaches and methods are examined.  Changes that are continually occurring in mathematics education are discussed and appropriate techniques for the teaching of mathematics in the public schools are presented, including teaching from a constructivist point of view, becoming familiar with the van Hiele levels of learning geometry, observing master teachers, and utilizing and integrating technology.  Many of the ideas are examined from the viewpoint of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Prerequisite: 323, 324, and 325, enrolled in professional term, or permission.  Offered fall term.

329 Differential Equations (3)

First-order equations, linear differential equations, series solutions, systems of linear differential equations, Laplace transforms, and applications.  Prerequisite:  Mathematics 236.  Offered odd spring terms.

330 Combinatorics (3)

A study of the models of combinatorial mathematics including graphs, digraphs, trees, recurrence relations and generating functions.  Students who successfully complete this course will be able to use these models in solving problems.  Prerequisite: Mathematics 250.  Offered alternate fall terms.

334 Complex Variables (3)

A study of complex numbers, functions of a complex variable, complex limits, complex differentiation and integration, series, residues and poles.  Students successfully completing this course will demonstrate a mastery of the fundamentals by performing a wide variety of computations which develop the concepts and apply the techniques developed in the course.  Prerequisite: MTH 236 and 250. Offered alternate fall terms.

347 Number Theory (3)

Divisibility, congruences, primitive roots, quadratic residues, Diophantine equations, and continued fractions.  Prerequisite:  Mathematics 236 and 250. Offered alternate spring terms.

351 Geometries (3)

Survey of Euclidean geometry, study of selected topics in non-Euclidean and other geometries.  Prerequisite:  Sophomore standing.  Mathematics 236 (may be taken concurrently) and 250.  Offered even spring terms.

355 Probability (3)

Random variables, conditional probability and independence, expectation, moment generating functions, and special distributions.  Prerequisite:  Mathematics 236 and 250. Offered every fall term.

356 Statistics (3)

A continuation of Mathematics 355.  Sampling distributions, hypothesis testing, nonparametric methods, and linear statistical models.  Prerequisite: Mathematics 355. Offered every spring term.

358 Actuarial Mathematics (2)

An examination of calculus and probability tools applied in finance and insurance providing preliminary preparation for the Society of Actuaries Exam P.  Students successfully completing this course will: 1) be capable of determining probability and calculus tools applicable to financial and insurance problems, and 2) become adept at solving multiple-choice questions typical to S.O.A. exams.  Prerequisite: MTH 236 and 355.  Offered spring term.

403 Abstract Algebra (3)

Introduction to properties of groups, rings, integral domains, and fields.  Prerequisite: Mathematics 250 and 303.  Offered odd spring terms.

421 Mathematics Internship (0-12)

On the job experience in mathematics.  Prerequisite: Cooperative Education 205 or permission.

433 Introductory Analysis (3)

An introduction to the theoretical foundations of calculus. Students successfully completing this course will: 1) understand the development of elementary calculus tools, 2) be familiar with the history, theorems and conjectures of traditional mathematical analysis, and 3) communicate mathematically through a variety of proof techniques. Prerequisite: MTH 236 and 250.  Offered alternate fall terms.

 435 Mathematical Methods for Physics (4)

A course designed to integrate mathematics into a coherent foundation for problem solving for upper-level physics and engineering courses.  Topics include Laplace and Fourier transformations, Fourier series, vector operators, ordinary and partial differential equations, and orthogonal functions.  Emphasis is given to the solution (analytical and numerical) of problems from both physics and engineering.  Completion of the course allows the student to define important aspects of each mathematical topic, to describe the relevance of each topic to physics and engineering problems involving each topic.  Prerequisite:  Physics 107, 108; Mathematics 235, 236, 237, 238.  (Cross-referenced with Physics 435.)

496 Mathematics Seminar I (1)

An introduction to research in a selected area of mathematics, mathematics education, or an application in mathematics.  The course increases the students' abilities to communicate their explorations in mathematics.  Each student explores possible topics and develops a plan of action for his/her Mathematics Seminar II project.  The student also develops research, writing, and presentation skills to carry out an independent research project.  Prerequisite:  Junior or senior mathematics major and twelve credits at the 300 level or above, or permission. Offered spring term.

497 Mathematics Seminar II (2)

In consultation with a faculty member, the student executes the plan of action created in Mathematics Seminar I.  The project culminates in a formal paper and oral presentation demonstrating the student's ability to independently research a topic and effectively communicate mathematics.  Prerequisite:  Mathematics 496 or permission.  Offered every term.