Mathematics Course Descriptions

The following course descriptions are from the Clarke University 2012-2013 Academic Catalog.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS: MATHEMATICS

MATH 005 ELEMENTARY ALGEBRA 3 hours
Students learn the numeric and algebraic skills necessary for future mathematics work. The focus is on the development of the real number system with emphasis on relationships and applications. Credit for this course does not count toward the 124 credits required for graduation. Students who are enrolled in this course may use it to fulfill athletic and financial aid eligibility.

MATH 090 INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA 3 hours
Explores linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions. This course may include polynomial functions of higher order, rational functions and systems of equations. Students develop their skills by approaching functions numerically, algebraically, graphically and verbally. Credit for this course does not count toward the 124 credits required for graduation. Students who are required to enroll in this course may use it to fulfill athletic and financial aid eligibility.

MATH 105 FOUNDATIONS OF MATHEMATICS I 3 hours
Designed for strengthening the mathematical backgrounds of elementary teachers, this course may cover topics such as numeration systems, number systems, problem solving, and topics in number theory, statistics and geometry.

MATH 106 FOUNDATIONS OF MATHEMATICS II 3 hours
A continuation of MATH 105 Foundations of Mathematics I. This course fulfills the university mathematics proficiency requirement. Prerequisite: MATH 105.

MATH 110 MATH AS A LIBERAL ART 3 hours
Enables students to appreciate mathematics in the world around them. The emphasis is on reading, writing and conceptual understanding as opposed to rote skills. Topics may include networks, voting, games, statistics, coding, tiling, symmetry and patterns, infinity, personal finance, and the fourth dimension. This course is designated as a mathematics and natural science division general education course, and fulfills the university mathematics requirement.

MATH 117 PRECALCULUS WITH ALGEBRA 3 hours
Oriented to preparation for calculus, this course continues the exploration of functions, including algebraic, exponential, and trigonometric functions. Students learn about functions through symbolic, numerical, graphical and verbal techniques. This course may not be taken for credit if a grade of C or above was achieved in a higher mathematics course (with the single exception of MATH 220 Statistics). This course is designated as a mathematics and natural science division general education course, and fulfills the university mathematics proficiency requirement. Prerequisites: Three years of high school mathematics or equivalent and appropriate placement.

MATH 180 TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS 1-3 hours
A study of basic concepts in various areas of mathematics.

MATH 220 STATISTICS 3 hours
Using technology and real-world data, this course explores descriptive and inferential statistics in preparation for research in various fields of study. A TI-83 graphing calculator or equivalent may be required. This course is designated as a mathematics and natural science division general education course, and fulfills the university mathematics proficiency requirement. Prerequisite: MATH 090 or equivalent or appropriate placement.

MATH 225 CALCULUS I 4 hours
Includes the study of functions via rates of change. The main tool is the derivative, and it is approached from algebraic, numerical and graphical points of view. There are applications of differentiation and an introduction to integration. Meets five days per week, which may include time in the computer lab. A TI-83 graphing calculator or equivalent is required. This course is designated as a mathematics and natural science division general education course, and fulfills the university mathematics proficiency requirement. Prerequisite: Four years of high school mathematics or equivalent or MATH 117.

MATH 226 CALCULUS II 4 hours
Sequel to MATH 225 Calculus I, in which functions are studied via integration. Topics include applications of the definite integral and an introduction to infinite series and differential equations. Meets five days per week, which may include time in the computer lab. A TI-83 graphing calculator or equivalent is required. Prerequisite: MATH 225 or consent.

MATH 230 STATISTICS FOR MAJORS 3 hours
This course explores the statistical concepts in the MATH 220 course at a depth more appropriate for mathematics majors and minors. Prerequisite: permission of department.

MATH 280 TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS 1-3 hours
Students will study basic concepts in various areas of mathematics.

MATH 290 INDEPENDENT STUDY CV
A student will study a lower-division course independently.

MATH 295 INTERNSHIP, LOWER DIVISION CV
A professional experience in mathematics as arranged with department or off-campus supervisors.

MATH 327 CALCULUS III 3 hours
Involves the study of multivariable calculus from algebraic, numerical and graphical points of view. Included are applications of differentiation and integration, vectors, parametric curves and surfaces. A TI-83 graphing calculator or equivalent may be required. Prerequisite: MATH 226.

MATH 333 LINEAR ALGEBRA 3 hours
The study of vector spaces, linear systems of equations, linear transformations, matrices, determinants and eigenvectors. This course is offered every other year. Prerequisite: MATH 226.

MATH 336 GEOMETRY SEMINAR 3 hours
Topics include Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometries. Emphasis is on student exploration, communication and research skills. This course is offered every other year. Prerequisite: MATH 226 or consent.

MATH 340 PROBABILITY 3 hours
Covers probability, discrete and continuous distributions, sampling distributions and the Central Limit Theorem. The course is calculus-based, and is offered every other year. Prerequisite: MATH 226.

MATH 343 NUMBER THEORY 3 hours
Topics might include properties of numbers, divisibility, Euclidean algorithm, prime numbers, congruences, continued fractions, Diophantine equations and residues. This course is offered every other year. Prerequisite: MATH 226 or consent.

MATH 390 INDEPENDENT STUDY CV
A student will study an upper-division course independently.

MATH 395 INTERNSHIP, UPPER DIVISION CV
A professional experience in mathematics as arranged with department or off-campus supervisors.

MATH 443 ABSTRACT ALGEBRA 3 hours
Includes the study of abstract algebraic structures, including groups, rings and fields. This course is offered every other year. Prerequisites: MATH 226 and MATH 333 or consent.

MATH 480 SPECIAL TOPICS IN MATHEMATICS 1-3 hours
Contemporary applications of mathematics are developed. Prerequisite: Consent.

MATH 487 RESEARCH 1-4 hours
Students read and conduct research or do creative work on a problem in mathematics and/or computer science.

MATH 499 CAPSTONE: MATHEMATICS SEMINAR 3 hours
This course focuses on discipline-specific topics and expands to include breadth of knowledge and synthesis. Interdisciplinary integration of knowledge and research is emphasized. General education and major outcomes are integral to course assessment. Prerequisites: Ordinarily, a student must have senior standing with a minimum of 42 credit hours in general education completed, MATH 333 Linear Algebra, MATH 336 Geometry Seminar, and consent.

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