Table of Contents
Mathematics is a discipline which has been said to be the Queen of the Sciences, and is the foundation of most modern quantitative and qualitative studies. The permanence and universality of mathematics throughout the ages is a consequence of its very nature. Mathematics is cumulative, developing from the earliest use of numbers by prehistoric civilizations to the highly deductive nature of geometry as developed by the Greeks, from the practical applications of calculus developed in the seventeenth century to the modern use of number theory in computer cryptography. Mathematics has many faces, from practical uses of its statistical tools to theoretical studies of abstract relationships. Our goal is to introduce students to all facets of the discipline, and to give them an appreciation of the historical, theoretical and applied nature of the discipline, as well as a full understanding of the beauty of the subject.
The Department offers a broad variety of courses and programs in Mathematics. Beginning courses may introduce students to the applications to which Calculus may be applied or the practical uses of statistics; more advanced courses deal with topics ranging from geometry to game theory. All courses in the Mathematics curriculum offer a blend of theory and practical applications. Many of the courses offered include a substantial computational component, and students are encouraged to use the mathematical software tools available. Courses are designed to address the needs of a wide variety of users, from the casual to the professional. Some students may enrol in a course to familiarize themselves with university level mathematics, while others will take a series of courses related directly to their chosen study area. Those choosing to pursue a minor or major in mathematics will be exposed to more advanced courses which blend Mathematical theory and practice.
Mount Allison has been very successful in placing many of its students in graduate programs in Mathematics, while many others have found employment after graduation in one of many fields for which mathematical understanding is an asset. Teaching, actuarial work, law and medicine are all areas requiring the ability to think and reason logically and for which a mathematical background can prove beneficial.
6 | from MATH 1111, 1121 |
12 | from MATH 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221, 2311, 2321. |
6 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 level. |
15 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2211, 2221 |
3 | from MATH 2121, 2311 |
3 | from MATH 3111, 3141, 3161 |
3 | from MATH 3011, 3211, 3221, 3231 |
3 | from MATH 3151, 3311, 3411 |
15 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
6 | from COMP 1631, 1731 |
12 | credits from complementary disciplines chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor |
18 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221 |
6 | from COMP 1631, 1731 |
6 | from MATH 3111, 3211 |
3 | from MATH 3311, 3411 |
6 | from MATH 3011, 4111, 4121, 4221, 4311, 4951, 4991 |
21 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
6 | from Mathematics or Computer Science at the 3/4000 levels |
6 | from Computer Science, Economics, or Mathematics at the 2000 level or above, or from COMM 3411, LING 2001, 3001, PHIL 2611, PHIL 3631 |
18 | from COMP 1631, 1731, 2211*, 2611, 2631, 2931 |
15 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2221 |
9 | from MATH 3111, 3211, 3311 |
3 | from MATH 3011, 3221, 3231, 3251, 4221 |
3 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 levels |
3 | from COMP 3361, 3971 |
15 | from COMP 3411, 3611, 3721, 3911, 4721 |
9 | from Computer Science or Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
9 | from CHEM 1001, 1021; PHYS 1051, 1551 (only for B.Sc.) |
3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 (only for B. Sc.) |
18 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221 |
3 | from MATH 3111, 3141, 3161 |
3 | from MATH 3011, 3211, 3221, 3231 |
3 | from MATH 3151, 3311, 3411 |
15 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
6 | from COMP 1631, 1731 |
9 | from CHEM 1001, 1021; PHYS 1051, 1551 |
3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 |
18 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221 |
6 | from COMP 1631, 1731 |
6 | from MATH 3111, 3211 |
3 | from MATH 3311, 3411 |
6 | from MATH 3011, 4111, 4121, 4221, 4311, 4951, 4991 |
21 | from Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
6 | from Mathematics or Computer Science at the 3/4000 level |
9 | from CHEM 1001, 1021; PHYS 1051, 1551 |
3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 |
21 | from ECON 1001, 1011, 2001, 2011, 2101, 2111, 2701 |
21 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221, 2311 |
3 | from COMP 1631 |
6 | from MATH 3111, 3211 |
12 | from ECON 4700, 4801, 4811, 4821 |
6 | from ECON at the 3/4000 levels which may include ECON 4990 |
12 | from MATH 3011, 3131, 3151, 3161, 3221, 3251, 3311, 3411, 3531, 4111, 4121, 4221, 4311. Note that MATH 4951 may also be included if the Program Co-ordinators approve its content. |
3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 |
18 | from MATH 1111, 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221 |
3 | from COMP 1631 |
6 | from CHEM 1001, 1021 |
12 | from PHYS 1051, 1551, 2251, 2801 |
3 | from MATH/PHYS 3451 |
9 | from MATH 3111, 3211, 3311 |
6 | from MATH 3141, 3161 |
6 | from MATH 3131, 3221, 3151, 3231, 3411, 3531, 4111, 4121, 4311, PHYS 4101, 4201, 4311, 4831, 4851, 4911; only 3 credits may be selected from the listed Physics courses |
18 | from PHYS 3101, 3201, 3701, 3811, 3821, 4411 |
6 | from PHYS 4990 |
Note: Students pursuing Honours in Mathematics and Physics may be allowed to substitute PHYS 1041 for PHYS 1051 with permission of the Department
Note: The listing of a course in the Calendar is not a guarantee that the course is offered every year.
Note: Students must obtain a grade of at least C- in all courses used to fulfill prerequisite requirements. Otherwise, written permission of the appropriate Department Head or Program Co-ordinator must be obtained.
Note: The following courses can be used for the distribution requirement for the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees:
MATH 1111, 1151, 1251, 2311 |
MATH 1011 (3.00)
Functions
This course focuses on the real number system, inequalities, plane analytic geometry (lines and conics), functions, inverse functions, polynomials, rational functions, trigonometric functions, and exponential and logarithmic functions. It emphasizes fundamental methods of graphing functions, using non-calculus based techniques. [Note 1: This course is primarily intended for non-science students or as a prerequisite for MATH 1111 or 1151 for those students who have not passed the Mathematics Placement Test. Science students who have passed the Mathematics Placement Test require the permission of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science to enrol in this course. Credit will not be given for this course if credit has already been granted for MATH 1111 or 1151.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of MATH 1011 previously offered with a different title)
MATH 1111 (3.00)
Calculus I
This course introduces differential calculus. Topics include derivatives of algebraic, trigonometric, and exponential functions and applications such as curve sketching, related rates, and optimization problems. [Note 1: This course has a Challenge for Credit option; see Calendar Section 3.11] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours)(Distribution: Natural Science-a) (Exclusion: MATH 1151; any version of MATH 1111 previously offered with a different title)
MATH 1121 (3.00)
Calculus II
Prereq: MATH 1111; or permission of the Department
This course continues the introduction to calculus begun in MATH 1111. Topics include techniques of integration; applications of the integral such as finding volumes and solving elementary differential equations; and sequences and series. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of MATH 1121 previously offered with a different title)
MATH 1151 (3.00)
Applied Calculus
This course introduces differential and integral calculus with an emphasis on applications. Topics include modeling with functions, interpretation of the derivative and integral, and some computational methods. [Note 1: The course is designed for students in life sciences and Commerce who do not intend to take MATH 1121.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours) (Distribution: Natural Science-a) (Exclusion: MATH 1111)
MATH 1251 (3.00)
Finite Mathematics
This course introduces common applications of finite mathematics. Topics include Markov chains, linear programming and game theory. [Note 1: This course is restricted to non-mathematics majors and is intended in particular for students in behavioural sciences, commerce, and social sciences. Mathematics majors require the instructor's permission to enrol.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Distribution: Natural Science-a)
MATH 1991 (3.00)
Special Topic in Mathematics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for MATH 1991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
MATH 2111 (3.00)
Multivariable Calculus
Prereq: MATH 1121; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the calculus of functions of several variables, including conic sections, quadric surfaces, polar co-ordinates in the plane, cylindrical and spherical co-ordinates in three space, continuity, partial derivatives, tangent planes, chain rule, maximum and minimum values, Lagrange multipliers, and double and triple integrals.(Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 2121 (3.00)
Differential Equations I
Prereq: MATH 1121; or permission of the Department
This course introduces first and second order differential equations. Topics include techniques for solving simple differential equations and the qualitative analysis of linear and non-linear equations. Applications include growth and decay, heating and cooling, and mixing and chemical reactions. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of MATH 2121 previously offered with a different title)
MATH 2211 (3.00)
Discrete Structures
Prereq: 3 credits from MATH 1111, 1151; or permission of the Department
An introduction to the terminology and concepts of discrete mathematics, covering such topics as: logical arguments, proofs and algorithm verification, sets, relations, functions and cardinality of sets, induction and recursion, enumeration, algorithms and complexity. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as COMP 2211 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 2221 (3.00)
Linear Algebra
Prereq: 3 credits from MATH 1111, 1151; or permission of the Departm
An introductory course in linear algebra covering such topics as linear equations, matrices, determinants, vector spaces, linear transformations, inner products, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors. Whenever possible, concepts are given a geometric interpretation in two and three-dimensional space. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 2311 (3.00)
Statistics I
This course introduces some of the concepts and techniques of probability and statistics. Topics include descriptive statistics, elementary probability, probability distributions, statistical estimation, hypothesis testing, and the use of a statistical software package in analyzing data. Examples come from a wide variety of disciplines. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Distribution: Natural Science-a)
MATH 2321 (3.00)
Statistics II
Prereq: 3 credits from MATH 2311, 3311; or permission of the Department
This is a second course in the concepts and techniques of probability and statistics. The course covers a selection of topics from analysis of variance, linear and nonlinear regression, correlation estimation and prediction, independence, Wilcoxon and goodness-of-fit tests and includes data analysis using statistical software. Examples come from a wide variety of sources and disciplines. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1 Hour)
MATH 2991 (3.00)
Special Topic in Mathematics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for MATH 2991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
MATH 3011 (3.00)
Set Theory and Mathematical Logic
Prereq: MATH 2211; or permission of the Department
This course provides a mathematical introduction to the basic ideas of set theory and logic. Topics covered may include: axiom of choice, cardinal and ordinal numbers, Boolean algebras and their applications, completeness, decidability, philosophies of mathematics. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3031 (3.00)
History of Mathematics
Prereq: 6 credits from MATH 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221; or permission of the Department
A survey of the history of Mathematics. Topics include: the achievements of early civilizations, the developments in Europe leading to the calculus and its consequences, the growth of rigor in the 18th and 19th centuries, the axiomatic method in the 20th century. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3111 (3.00)
Real Analysis I
Prereq: MATH 2111; MATH 2211; or permission of the Department
A systematic and rigorous study of the real numbers and functions of a real variable, emphasizing limits and continuity. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3131 (3.00)
Differential Equations II
Prereq: MATH 2121; MATH 2111; MATH 2221; or permission of the Department
This course focuses on ordinary and partial differential equations. Topics for ordinary differential equations include existence and uniqueness of solutions, systems of differential equations, power series solutions, Laplace and Fourier transforms, and Fourier series. Topics for partial differential equations include separation of variables, generalized Fourier series, Sturm-Liouville theory, Legendre polynomials, Bessel functions, Green's functions, and the calculus of variations. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: Any version of MATH 3131 previously offered with a different title)
MATH 3141 (3.00)
Vector Calculus
Prereq: MATH 2111; 3 credits from MATH 2221, MATH/PHYS 3451; or permission of the Department
This course covers the calculus of vector-valued functions and curves, vector fields, line and surface integrals, vector differential operators, and the various forms of Stokes' Theorem. It may also include the differential geometry of curves and differential forms. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3151 (3.00)
An Introduction to Mathematical Modelling
Prereq: Third-year standing; 3 credits from Math 1111, 1151; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the nature of theoretical mathematical modelling illustrated by examples drawn from the physical sciences, population dynamics (mathematical ecology), traffic flow, sociological problems (for example voting, kinship and cultural stability) and other areas depending on the interests of the class. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3161 (3.00)
Complex Variables With Applications
Prereq: MATH 2111; or permission of the Department
This course covers analytic functions, Cauchy-Riemann equations, conformal mapping, complex integrals, Cauchy's integral theorem, Taylor and Laurent Series, residues,evaluation of real integrals, and inverse transforms. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours; Exclusion MATH 4131)
MATH 3211 (3.00)
Modern Algebra I
Prereq: MATH 2211; MATH 2221; or permission of the Department
An introduction to the theory of groups and rings. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3221 (3.00)
Advanced Linear Algebra
Prereq: MATH 2221; MATH 2211 recommended; or permission of the Department
An advanced course in linear algebra, covering selected topics from: change of basis and similarity of matrices; multilinear forms and determinants; canonical forms, Primary Decomposition Theorem, Jordan form; semisimple and normal operators; spectral theory; quadratic forms; applications to geography, electrical networks, linear programming, differential equations, or the geometry of conic sections. (Format: Lecture 3 Hour)
MATH 3231 (3.00)
Number Theory
Prereq: MATH 2211; or permission of the Department
An introductory half-course in the theory of numbers covering such topics as: Euclidean algorithm, Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, congruences, diophantine equations, Fermat and Wilson Theorems, quadratic residues, continued fractions, Prime number theorem. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3251 (3.00)
Graph Theory
Prereq: MATH 2211; or permission of the Department
This course introduces terminology, techniques, and applications of graph theory and examines parameters for a variety of classes of graphs. Topics include trees, planarity, colouring, matchings, and network flow problems. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)(Exclusion: Any version of MATH 3251 previously offered with a different title.)
MATH 3301 (3.00)
Introduction to Game Theory
Prereq: 6 credits from ECON 1001, 1011; or 3 credits from MATH 1111, 1151; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the basic tools and methods of Game Theory. Game Theory is a mathematically oriented approach to understanding the strategic interaction of self-interested agents. Emphasis is on non-cooperative games. Topics include backwards induction, iterative deletion of dominated strategies, Nash equilibrium, repeated games, some equilibrium refinements, evolutionary game theory, and Bayesian Nash equilibria. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as ECON 3301 and therefore may count as 3 credits in either discipline. Note 2: Counts as a Commerce elective for students taking a Bachelor of Commerce or a Major or Minor in Commerce] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1 Hour)
MATH 3311 (3.00)
Probability and Statistics I
Prereq: MATH 2111; or permission of the Department
This course focuses on the mathematical theory of probability. It includes topics such as: sample space, events, axioms, conditional probability, Bayes' Theorem, random variables, combinatorial probability, moment generating functions, transformations of random variables, univariate and jont distributions with reference to the binomial, hypergeometric, normal, Gamma, Poisson, and others; convergence of sequences of variables; and the Central Limit Theorem. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3411 (3.00)
Numerical Analysis
Prereq: MATH 1121; 3 credits from COMP; or permission of the Department
This course introduces numerical methods for solving a variety of problems in mathematics, the natural sciences, and engineering and the implementation of numerical methods on a computer. Topics include numerical stability, polynomial approximation and interpolation, integration and solution of differential equations, solution of linear and nonlinear systems of equations, and matrix factorization. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as COMP 3411 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3451 (3.00)
Methods of Mathematical Physics
Prereq: MATH 2111; 3 credits from MATH 2121, PHYS 2251; or permission of the Department
This course provides students with a selection of mathematical skills needed in more advanced physics courses. It introduces frequently utilized mathematical methods in theoretical physics in close connection with physics applications. Topics include vector and tensor analysis, use of special functions, operators and eigenvalue problems, Fourier analysis, and complex variable techniques. [Note 1: This course is cross listed as PHYS 3451 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
MATH 3531 (3.00)
Simulation and Modelling
Prereq: MATH 1111; 3 credits from MATH 2311, MATH 3311, PSYC 2001, PSYC 2011; 3 credits from COMP; or permission of the Department
An introduction to the simulation technique for studying mathematical models. Specific titles include: systems theory and system models, continuous system simulation, discrete system simulation, Monte Carlo methods, random number generators, and simulation languages. Emphasis will be placed upon computer implementation of the methods studied. [Note 1: This course is cross listed as COMP 3531 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 3991 (3.00)
Special Topic in Mathematics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for MATH 3991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
MATH 4111 (3.00)
Topology
Prereq: MATH 3111; or permission of the Department
This course introduces metric and topological spaces, convergence, and continuous functions. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 4121 (3.00)
Real Analysis II
Prereq: MATH 3111; or permission of the Department
This course continues the study of analysis begun in MATH 3111 and includes a rigorous study of the Riemann and Lebesgue integrals based on formal definitions and proofs. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours; Exclusion: MATH 3121)
MATH 4221 (3.00)
Modern Algebra II
Prereq: MATH 3211; or permission of the Department
The classical theory of fields and rings and their applications. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 4311 (3.00)
Probability and Statistics II
Prereq: MATH 3311; or permission of the Department
This course focuses on mathematical statistics. It includes topics such as: estimation, unbiasedness,efficiency, Cramer-Rao lower bound, consistency, sufficiency, maximum likelihood estimators, hypothesis testing, power of tests, likelihood ratio, regression analysis and analysis of variance. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours) (Exclusion: MATH 3321)
MATH 4631 (3.00)
Theory of Computation
Prereq: COMP/MATH 2211; COMP 1731; or permission of the Department
This course is an introduction to theoretical aspects of Computer Science such as formal language and automata theory and complexity theory. [Note 1: This course is cross listed as COMP 4631 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 4651 (3.00)
Cryptography
Prereq: COMP 1731; COMP/MATH 2211; MATH 2221; or permission of the Department
This course is an introduction to cryptographic algorithms and to the cryptanalysis of these algorithms, with an emphasis on the fundamental principles of information security. Topics include: classical cryptosystems, modern block and stream ciphers, public-key ciphers, digital signatures, hash functions, key distribution and agreement. [Note 1: This course is cross listed as COMP 4651 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
MATH 4951 (3.00)
Independent Study in Mathematics
This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for MATH 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)
MATH 4991 (3.00)
Special Topic in Mathematics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for MATH 4991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)