MAT 3060 - ABSTRACT ALGEBRA

credits: 4.0
Will introduce the student to the study of abstract mathematical structure. Some familiar algebraic properties of the real numbers will be formalized into axiomatic systems having one binary operation (groups) or two binary operations (rings and fields). The largest portion of the course will be devoted to developing examples and properties of groups and studying structure-preserving functions (homomophisms and isomorphisms) between them. A smaller portion of the course will do the same for rings and fields. The computer laboratory uses specialized software to assist in understanding the concepts. Method of Instruction: Classroom discussion and experimentation, lecturing, will lead to conjectures which may turn out to be theorems requiring proof, or just wrong guesses to be demolished by counter examples. Labs will involve computer exercises. Method of Evaluation: Substantial homework, midterm, tests, and a comprehensive final exam.

Prerequisite(s): MAT 3050 - LINEAR ALGEBRA