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| MATHEMATICAL
SCIENCES |
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Associate Professors: Haley, Sprechini,
Weida (Chairperson)
Assistant Professors: deSilva, Golshan, Peluso
Part-time Instructors: Abercrombie, Collins, Davis
The Department of Mathematical Sciences offers major and minor programs in
computer science and mathematics.
Computer Science
(CPTR)
The B. A. Degree
The B.A. degree in computer science consists of 13 courses: MATH 216; either
MATH 109 or 128; one from MATH 112, 129, or 130; CPTR 125, 246, 247, 248, 346,
445, 448, and three other computer science courses numbered 220 or above
including approved internships, or MATH 338.
The B.S. Degree
The B.S. degree in computer science consists of 17 courses: MATH 128, 129,
216 and either 214 or 332; CPTR 125, 246, 247, 248, 346, 445, 448; three other
computer science courses numbered 220 or above; one of the sequences BIO
110-111, CHEM 110-111, or PHYS 225-226; and one additional course from the
following list of courses: Biology course numbered 110 or above, Chemistry
course numbered 110 or above, Physics course numbered 225 or above, or Math 130,
214, 231, 233, 234, 238, 332, 333.
Students considering graduate work in computer science should take MATH 128,
129 and 130. Recommended extra-departmental course: PHIL 225. In addition to the
regular courses listed below, special courses are occasionally available.
The following courses, when scheduled as W courses, count toward the writing
intensive requirement: CPTR 246, 247, 346, and 448.
Minor
A minor in computer science consists of Math 216, CPTR 125, 246, 247, and two
other computer science courses numbered 220 or above.
101
MICROCOMPUTER FILE MANAGEMENT
An introduction to a file-management system, i.e. a database system that uses
a single file, in the Windows environment.One-half unit of credit. This
course may not be used to meet distribution requirements.
108
COMPUTING ESSENTIALS
An introduction to the use of computers in problem solving and programming.
Included are uses of spreadsheets, databases, and programming. The course
teaches the use of simple techniques in areas such as number theory, algebra,
geometry, statistics, and the mathematics of business and finance. The
programming component of the course is currently based on the Visual Basic
programming language. Emphasis is given to the processes involved in
mathematical modeling and problem solving. Laboratory experience is included
using current software. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from MATH 100.
125
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE
Introduction to the discipline of computer science with emphasis on
programming utili-zing a block-structured high-level programming language.
Topics include algorithms, program structure, and computer configuration.
Laboratory experience is included. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from
MATH 100.
246
PRINCIPLES OF ADVANCED PROGRAMMING
Principles of effective programming, including structured and object oriented
programming, stepwise refinement, assertion proving, style, debugging, control
structures, decision tables, finite state machines, recursion, and encoding. Prerequisite:
A grade of C- or better in CPTR 125.
247
DATA STRUCTURES
Representation of data and analysis of algorithms associated with data
structures. Topics include representation of lists, trees, graphs and strings,
algorithms for searching and sorting. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better
in CPTR 246 or consent of instructor. Corequisite: MATH 216.
248
PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE DESIGN
Study of modern programming language design and implementation. Paradigms
studied include procedural, functional, logic, and object-oriented. Topics
include syntax, semantics, data types, data structures, storage management, and
control structures. Laboratory experience is included. Prerequisite: CPTR
247.
321
INTRODUCTION TO NUMERICAL
ANALYSIS
Topics from the theory of interpolation; numerical approaches to
approximation of roots and functions, integration, systems of differential
equations, linear systems, matrix inversion, and the eigenvalue problem. Prerequisite:
CPTR 125 and MATH 129; MATH 130 strongly recommended. Cross-listed as MATH 321.
324
AUTOMATA, FORMAL LANGUAGES,
AND COMPUTABILITY
The study of finite state machines, pushdown stacks, and Turing machines
along with their equivalent formal language counterparts. Topics covered include
results on computability, including results regarding the limits of computers
and specific problems that cannot be solved. Prerequisite: MATH 216 or 234.
Cross-listed as MATH 324. Alternate years.
331
COMPUTER NETWORKS
This course introduces the following computer networking concepts: LAN, WAN,
FTP, TCP/IP, HTTP, network topologies, Ethernet, OSI model, routers, switches,
and wiring technologies. Students will set up a LAN using a mix of available
operating systems and networking software. Prerequisite: CPTR 246.
342
WEB-BASED PROGRAMMING
Intermediate programming on the World Wide Web. Topics covered include
client/server issues in Web publishing, Java Script, VB Script, Java, Perl, and
CGI. Prerequisite: CPTR 246 or consent of instructor. Alternate years.
345
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER GRAPHICS
An introduction to graphics hardware and software with emphasis on the
mathematics necessary to represent, transform, and display images of two- and
three-dimensional objects. Subjects covered include but not limited to: three
dimensional modeling and viewing, color models, and rendering. Prerequisite:
CPTR 246 and either CPTR 247 or consent of instructor; MATH 130 recommended.
Alternate years.
346
COMPUTER ORGANIZATION
AND MACHINE LANGUAGE
Principles of computer organization, architecture, and machine language.
Topics include machine and assembly languages, internal representation of data,
processor data path and control, pipelined processors, memory hierarchies, and
performance issues. Laboratory experience is included. Pre-requisite: A grade
of C- or better in CPTR 246; CPTR 247 strongly recommended.
349
DATABASE SYSTEMS
An in-depth introduction to the relational database model and SQL. Topics
include but are not limited to: relational algebra, relational calculus,
normalization, design theory of relational databases, SQL standards, and query
optimization. Prerequisite: CPTR 247. Alternate years.
441
INTRODUCTION TO ARTIFICIAL
INTELLIGENCE
Introduction to the theory, implementation techniques, and applications of
artificial intelligence. Topics may include but are not limited to knowledge
representation, problem solving, modeling, robotics, natural language analysis,
and computer vision. Prerequisite: CPTR 247. Alternate years.
442
INTRODUCTION TO ROBOTICS
Designing, building and programming mobile robots. Some advanced topics are
covered which may include control theory, robotic paradigms, and vision.
Teamwork is essential in all projects. Prerequisite: CPTR 247.
445
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Detailed analysis of processes, scheduling, multithreading, symmetric
multiprocessing, file management, real and virtual memory management, file and
memory addressing, and distributed processing. Prerequisite: CPTR 247 and
346.
448
ADVANCED DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Individual or group research and implementation projects. Includes analysis,
design, development and documentation of a significant current, relevant problem
and its computer-based solution. Prerequisite: CPTR 247. Alternate years.
N80-N89
INDEPENDENT STUDY (See index)
490-491
INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR
DEPARTMENTAL HONORS (See index)
Mathematics (MATH)
A major in mathematics consists of 10 unit courses in the mathematical
sciences: CPTR 125, MATH 128, 129, 130, 234, 238, 432, 434, and two other
mathematics courses numbered 220 or above, one of which may be replaced by MATH
112, 214 or 216. In addition, four semesters of non-credit Math Colloquium are
required: two semesters each of MATH 339 and MATH 449. Students who are
interested in pursuing a career in actuarial science should consider the
actuarial mathematics major.
Students seeking secondary teacher certification in mathematics are also
required to complete MATH 330, 336, and one from 123, 214 or 332, and are
advised to enroll in PHIL 217. Also, all majors are advised to elect PHIL 225,
333 and PHYS 225, 226. Other courses required for certification are PSY 110,
138; EDUC 200, 446, 447, 449.
In addition to the regular courses listed below, special courses are
occasionally available.
The following course, when scheduled as a W course, counts toward the writing
intensive requirement: MATH 234.
Minor
A minor in mathematics consists of MATH 128, 129, and either 216 or 234; two
additional courses numbered 200 or above, one of which may be replaced with MATH
130; and two semesters of MATH 339.
100
INDIVIDUALIZED LABORATORY
INSTRUCTION IN BASIC ALGEBRA
A computer-based program of instruction in basic algebra including arithmetic
and decimals, fractions, the real number line, factoring, solutions to linear
and quadratic equations, graphs of linear and quadratic functions, expressions
with rational exponents, algebraic functions, exponential functions, and
inequalities. This course is limited to students placed therein by the
Mathematics Department. One-half unit of credit.
106
COMBINATORICS
An introduction to the analysis of counting problems. Topics include
permutations, combinations, binomial coefficients, inclusion/exclusion
principle, and partitions. The nature of the subject allows questions to be
posed in everyday language while still developing sophisticated mathematical
concepts. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from MATH 100.
109
APPLIED ELEMENTARY CALCULUS
An intuitive approach to the calculus concepts with applications to business,
biology, and social-science problems. Not open to students who have completed
MATH 128. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from MATH 100.
112
FINITE MATHEMATICS
FOR DECISION-MAKING
An introduction to some of the principal mathematical models, not involving
calculus, which are used in business administration, social sciences, and
operations research. The course will include both deterministic models such as
graphs, networks, linear programming and voting models, and probabilistic models
such as Markov chains and games. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from
MATH 100.
123
INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS
Topics include tabular and graphical descriptive statistics, discrete and
continuous probability distributions, Central Limit Theorem, one- and two-sample
hypotheses tests, analysis of variance, chisquared tests, nonparametric tests,
linear regression and correlation. Other topics may include index numbers, time
series, sampling design, and experimental design. Course also includes some use
of a microcomputer. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from MATH 100
127
PRECALCULUS MATHEMATICS
The study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and
trigonometric functions, their graphs and elementary properties. This course is
an intensive preparation for students planning to take Calculus (Math 128-129),
those in the Scholars Program, or those whose major specifically requires
Precalculus. Prerequisite: Credit for or exemption from MATH 100.
128-129
CALCULUS WITH ANALYTIC GEOMETRY I - II
Differentiation and integration of algebraic and trigonometric functions,
conic sections and their applications, graphing plane curves, applications to
related rate and external problems, areas of plane regions, volumes of solids of
revolution, and other applications; differentiation and integration of
transcendental functions, parametric equations, polar coordinates, infinite
sequences and series, and series expansions of functions. Prerequisite for
128: Exemption from or a grade of C- or better in MATH 127. Prerequisite for
129: exemption from or a grade of C- or better in MATH 128.
130
INTRODUCTION TO MATRIX ALGEBRA
Systems of linear equations and matrix arithmetic. Points and
hyperplanes,
infinite dimensional geometries. Bases and linear independence. Matrix
representations of linear mappings. The fixed point problem. Special classes of
matrices. Prerequisite: MATH 127 or its equivalent.
205
MATHEMATICS IN ELEMENTARY
EDUCATION
This course is intended for prospective elementary school teachers and is
required of all those seeking elementary certification. Topics include systems
of numbers and numeration, computational algorithms, environmental and
transformation geometry, measurement, and mathematical concept formation.
Observation and participation in Greater Williamsport elementary schools. Prerequisite:
PSY 138 and credit for or exemption from MATH 100. Corequisite: Any EDUC course
numbered 341 or above which is specifically required for elementary
certification.
214
MULTIVARIABLE STATISTICS
The study of statistical techniques involving several variables. Topics
include multiple regression and correlation, one-and two-way analysis of
variance, analysis of covariance, analysis of two- and three-way contingency
tables, and discriminant analysis. Other topics may include cluster analysis,
factor analysis and canonical correlations, repeated measure designs, time
series analysis, and nonparametric methods. Course also includes extensive use
of a statistical package (currently BMDP). Prerequisite: A grade of C- or
better in MATH 123 or its equivalent, or MATH 332.
216
DISCRETE MATHEMATICS
An introduction to discrete structures. Topics include equivalence relations,
partitions and quotient sets, mathematical induction, recursive functions,
elementary logic, discrete number systems, elementary combinatorial theory, and
general algebraic structures emphasizing semi-groups, lattices, Boolean
algebras, graphs, and trees. Prerequisite: CPTR 125 or consent of instructor.
231
DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
A study of ordinary differential equations and linear systems. Solution
techniques include: reduction of order, undetermined coefficients, variation of
parameters, Laplace transforms, power series, and eigenvalues and
eigenvectors. A brief discussion of numerical methods may also be included.
Prerequisite:
A grade of C- or better in MATH 129; MATH 130 recommended.
233
COMPLEX VARIABLES
Complex numbers, analytic functions, complex integration, Cauchy’s theorems
and their applications. Corequisite: MATH 238. Alternate years.
234
FOUNDATIONS OF MATHEMATICS
Topics regularly included are the nature of mathematical systems, essentials
of logical reasoning, and axiomatic foundations of set theory. Other topics
frequently included are approaches to the concepts of infinity and continuity,
and the construction of the real number system. The course serves as a bridge
from elementary calculus to advanced courses in algebra and analysis. Prerequisite:
A grade of C- or better in MATH 129 or 130; both courses recommended.
238
MULTIVARIABLE CALCULUS
Algebra, geometry, and calculus in multi-dimensional Euclidean space;
n-tuples,
matrices; lines, planes, curves, surfaces; vector functions of a single
variable, acceleration, curvature; functions for several variables, gradient;
line integrals, vector fields, multiple integrals, change of variable, areas,
volumes; Green’s theorem. Prerequisites: A grade of C- or better in MATH
129, and either MATH 130 or 231.
321
INTRODUCTION TO NUMERICAL
ANALYSIS
Topics from the theory of interpolation; numerical approaches to
approximating roots and functions, integration, systems of differential
equations, linear systems, matrix inversion, and the eigenvalue problem. Prerequisite:
CPTR 125 and MATH 129; MATH 130 strongly recommended Cross-listed as CPTR 321.
324
AUTOMATA, FORMAL LANGUAGES,
AND COMPUTABILITY
The study of finite state machines, pushdown stacks, and Turing machines
along with their equivalent formal language counterparts. Topics covered include
results on computability, including results regarding the limits of computers
and specific problems that cannot be solved. Prerequisite: MATH 216 or 234.
Cross-listed as CPTR 324. Alternate years.
330
TOPICS IN GEOMETRY
An axiomatic treatment of Euclidean geometry with an historical perspective.
Prerequisite:
MATH 234. Alternate years.
332-333
MATHEMATICAL STATISTICS I-II
A study of probability, discrete and continuous random variables, expected
values and moments, sampling, point estimation, sampling distributions, interval
estimation, test of hypotheses, regression and linear hypotheses, experimental
design models. Corequisite: MATH 238. Alternate years.
336
CONCEPTS OF MATHEMATICS
IN SECONDARY EDUCATION
A course designed for mathematics majors who are planning to teach at the
secondary level. Emphasis will be placed on the mathematics that form the
foundation of secondary mathematics. Ideas will be presented to familiarize the
student with the various curriculum proposals, to provide for innovation within
the existing curriculum, and to expand the boundaries of the existing
curriculum. Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in MATH 129; student
must be junior or senior mathematics major enrolled in the secondary
certification program.
338
OPERATIONS RESEARCH
Queuing theory, including simulations techniques, optimization theory,
including linear programming, integer programming, and dynamic programming; game
theory, including two-person zero-sum games, cooperative games, and multiperson
games. Prerequisite: MATH 112 or 130. Alternate years.
432
REAL ANALYSIS
An introduction to the rigorous analysis of the concepts of real variable
calculus in the setting of normed spaces. Topics from: topology of the Euclidean
plane, completeness, compactness, the Heine-Borel theorem; functions on
Euclidean space, continuity, uniform continuity, differentiability; series and
convergence; Riemann integral. Prerequisite: MATH 238 and a grade of C- or
better in MATH 234.
434
ABSTRACT ALGEBRA
An integrated approach to groups, rings, fields, and vector spaces and
functions which preserve their structure. Prerequisite: MATH 130 and a grade
of C- or better in MATH 234.
438
SEMINAR
Topics in modern mathematics of current interest to the instructor. A
different topic is selected each semester. This semester is designed to provide
junior and senior mathematics majors and other qualified students with more than
the usual opportunity for concentrated and cooperative inquiry. Prerequisite:
Consent of instructor. One-half unit of credit. This course may be repeated for
credit.
339 & 449
MATH COLLOQUIUM
This non-credit but required course for mathematics and actuarial mathematics
majors offers students a chance to hear presentations on topics related to, but
not directly covered in formal MATH courses. Mathematics majors present two
lectures, one during the junior year and one during the senior year. Actuarial
mathematics majors present one lecture during one of the semesters in which they
are enrolled. A letter grade will be given in semesters in which the student
gives a presentation, otherwise the grade will be P/F. Prerequisite: junior
standing or consent of instructor. One hour per week.
470-479
INTERNSHIP (See index)
N80-N89
INDEPENDENT STUDY (See index)
490-491
INDEPENDENT STUDY FOR
DEPARTMENTAL HONORS (See index)
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