Courses

Search for courses listed in this bulletin. To find a semester course schedule (including instructors, meeting times and locations), go to mynmu.nmu.edu.

MA 101 Quantitative Literacy 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter Summer
  • Prerequisites: OC 080 ("C-" or better) or appropriate math placement.

The study of quantitative reasoning and application of analytical skills. A project-based course with emphasis on the process of identifying, formulating, and solving a multitude of frequently encountered real-world problems.

MA 111 College Algebra 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 100 ("C-" or better) or appropriate math placement.

The study of quadratic and higher degree polynomials and rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic equations and functions. Emphasis on exponential and logarithmic functions.

MA 113 Finite Mathematics 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 100 ("C-" or better) or appropriate math placement.

The study of applications of mathematics beyond algebra to the business world. Topics include annuities and loan amortization, an introduction to linear programming, game theory, and Markov processes, and probability and statistics. If time permits, applications of derivatives and integrals to economics and other business areas may be included.

MA 115 Precalculus 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 111 ("C-" or better) or MA 100 ("A-" or better) or appropriate math placement.

The study of exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric equations and functions. Includes a review of higher degree polynomial and rational functions. Emphasis on trigonometric functions.

MA 161 Calculus I 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter Summer
  • Prerequisites: MA 115 ("C-" or better) or appropriate math placement.

The study of limits, derivatives, and integrals.

MA 163 Calculus II 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall Winter Summer
  • Prerequisites: MA 161 ("C-" or better).

The study of advanced integration techniques, infinite sequences, series, and power series, and the applications of these topics.

MA 211 Linear Algebra 3 cr.
  • Offered: Fall Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 161 ("C-" or better) or instructor's permission.

The study of matrices, matrix operations, systems of linear equations, determinants, vector spaces, linear transformations and characteristic roots and vectors.

MA 231 Topics in Geometry 4 cr.
  • Offered: Every winter beginning W2014.
  • Prerequisites: MA 111, or MA 151.

An introduction to a broad range of ideas in geometry taught through an informal (as opposed to axiomatic) study of the concepts. This approach focuses on understanding the mathematics underlying rules, algorithms, and relationships of geometry rather than formal proofs.

MA 240 Discrete Mathematics 4 cr.
  • Offered: Fall
  • Prerequisites: CS 120 and MA 113 or equivalent.

The mathematical foundations of computer science. Topics: logic, proof techniques, permutations, combinations, automata theory, regular expressions.

MA 265 Calculus III 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 163.

Limits, continuity of a function of several real variables, partial differentiation, multiple integrals and vector analysis.

MA 275 Sample Survey Methods 4 cr.
  • Offered: On demand
  • Prerequisites: MA 109 or instructor's permission.

Study of the most appropriate sampling procedures for various situations and the associated problems of estimation, costs and sample size, followed by an introduction to the most efficient methods for designing and analyzing statistical experiments. Emphasis is on applications and data analysis. The software packages MINITAB and SPSS are introduced.

MA 295 Special Topics in Mathematics 1-4 cr.
  • Offered: On demand
  • Prerequisites: Designed for freshmen and sophomores.
Study of topics reflecting the special interests of students and staff. Notes: May be repeated, with instructor’s permission, if topic differs.
MA 312 Abstract Algebra I 3 cr.
  • Offered: Fall
  • Prerequisites: MA 211 and MA 163 or instructor’s permission.

Topics chosen from universal algebraic notions, graphs, trees, lattices, Boolean algebras, groups, rings, fields and applications.

Notes: Formerly Abstract Algebra with Applications
MA 331 Geometry for Educators 4 cr.  (4-0-0)
  • Offered: Fall
  • Prerequisites: Admission to teacher education; MA 211 or both MSED 151 and MA 161, or instructor permission.

Geometry from a modern axiomatic viewpoint. Includes Euclidean geometry and an introduction to non-Euclidean geometries. 

MA 340 Combinatorics 4 cr.
  • Offered: Fall
  • Prerequisites: CS 120 and MA 211.
Combinatorics and applied abstract algebra, including enumeration, counting, sorting, searching and graph algorithms.
MA 350 Methods and Materials in Teaching Secondary School Mathematics 4 cr.
  • Offered: Fall
  • Prerequisites: Admission to the methods phase of teacher education, MA 312 and MA 331.

Designed to acquaint prospective secondary teachers with contemporary methods and materials employed in the teaching of mathematics in the secondary school. Field experiences are required.

Notes: May not be applied toward a non-teaching major or minor in mathematics.
MA 351 Models and Problem Solving for the Elementary School Teacher 4 cr.
  • Offered: Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 250 and MA 231 with grades of "C" or better.

An emphasis on problem solving from the following areas: historical mathematics, number theory, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and recreational mathematics.

Notes: May not be applied toward a non-teaching major or minor in mathematics.
MA 353 Methods and Materials in Teaching Elementary School Mathematics 3 cr.
  • Offered: Fall Winter
  • Prerequisites: Admission to the methods phase of teacher education, MSED 150 and MSED 151.

Designed to acquaint prospective elementary teachers with contemporary methods and materials employed in the teaching of mathematics in the elementary school. Field experiences are required.

Notes: May not be applied toward a non-teaching major or minor in mathematics. Cross-listed with ED 353 Methods and Materials in Teaching Elementary School Mathematics.
MA 354 Topics in Teaching Middle School Mathematics 3 cr.
  • Offered: Winter
  • Prerequisites: Admission to the methods phase of teacher education, junior standing, and a "C" or better in MA 331.

The study of content and current methods in teaching middle school mathematics.

Notes: May not be applied toward a non-teaching major or minor in mathematics. Cross-listed with ED 354 Topics in Teaching Middle School Mathematics.
MA 361 Differential Equations 3 cr.
  • Offered: Winter
  • Prerequisites: MA 265 or instructor permission.

First-order equations, theory of second-order linear equations, higher-order linear equations and systems, series solutions, Laplace transform and applications, and stability.