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Department of Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science
Computer Science
CS 101 Survey of Computer Science 3 Cr.
  An overview of hardware, software, computers and society, and an introduction to major application packages, including a word processor, an electronic spreadsheet, graphics, slide presentation software, and others. This course does not count towards the minors or majors in the computer science program. Each semester.
CS 103 Instructional Media and Technology 3 Cr.
  This course is intended for students seeking teacher certification. Students will develop an understanding of how the microcomputer and other instructional technology can be used to enhance teaching. In addition, students will create audiovisual media and incorporate audiovisual media techniques in lesson and unit planning. No prior knowledge of computers or other technology is assumed. Each semester.
CS 110 Intro. to Computer Science: Java Programming 4 Cr.
  An introduction to the fundamentals of programming and software development using the object oriented programming language Java. An integrated laboratory provides experience in programming and algorithmic problem-solving. Topics include computing and object-oriented design methodology, Java fundamentals, modifying objects, control constructs, function usage basics and libraries, programmer-defined functions, parameter passing, arrays, the class construct and object-oriented design, event-based programming, and implementing abstract data types. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Fall semester.
CS 120 Data Structures and Program Design 4 Cr.
  An introduction to program design, fundamental data structures, and analysis of algorithms. Includes contiguous and linked lists (stacks, queues, and general lists), search and sort techniques, binary trees, tables, hashing, recursion, and graphs. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or better in CS 110. Spring semester.
CS 201 Web Graphics, Animation and Layout 3 Cr.
  An introduction to the tools and techniques used for the design of web pages. Students will use an image editing program and Macromedia Flash as the primary software tools. Students will also learn principles of website architecture, navigation and page layout. The course includes lectures, demonstrations, group projects, and extensive hands-on experience in a computer laboratory. Prerequisite: CS101 or equivalent experience. Fall semester.
CS 202 Web Coding and Development 3 Cr.
  An extensive introduction to the fundamentals of HTML, web page layout, and web site development using Notepad and Macromedia Dreamweaver. Students will learn all of HTML plus tips and tricks of making web pages work. The class will also touch on XML, SHTML, Javascript, PHP, CGI, Java and Perl. The course includes lectures, demonstrations, group projects, and extensive hands-on experience in a computer laboratory. Prerequisite: CS101 or equivalent experience. Spring semester.
CS 213 Computer Applications in Business 3 Cr.
  Familiarizes students with business information technology concepts and applications, analysis of business problems with potential computer-based solutions, and concepts and applications of electronic communications. Course involves the use of an electronic spreadsheet, a presentation software, and the World Wide Web. Two (2) one-hour lectures and one one-hour laboratory each week. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing, CS101 or consent of instructor. Each semester.
CS 230 Software Engineering 4 Cr.
  The first in a two-semester sequence on Software Engineering, this course addresses the development of large software systems. Problem-solving concepts are integrated with a study of the software development life cycle, including project management, requirements analysis, system design, testing, implementation, and maintenance issues. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in CS110 and CS120. Fall semester. May fulfill writing intensive requirement.
CS 240 Software Engineering Project 4 Cr.
  The second in a two-semester sequence on Software Engineering, this course addresses the development of software systems. Students will analyze, design, implement, test, and present an object-oriented team project. Main objectives are to learn object-oriented principles and project management and why they are important. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in CS 110; CS 120; CS 230. Spring semester.
CS 309 Computer Architecture 4 Cr.
  An introduction to computer design and implementation by viewing the modern computer as a hierarchy of levels. The digital logic level, the microarchitecture level, the instruction set architecture level, the operating system machine level, and the assembly language level are all discussed. An integrated laboratory applies the concepts studied through the use of an actual assembler or simulation software. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Fall semester
CS 310 Database Design and Implementation 4 Cr.
  This course concentrates on representing, storing, and retrieving data from external storage devices. This course includes medium-scale software development using a high-level database language. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in CS 110; CS 120; CS 230; CS 240. Fall semester.
CS 330 Computer Networking I 4 Cr.
  The first of a two-semester sequence on data communications and computer networking, this course covers topics such as data communication fundamentals, transmission media, communication techniques, data link control protocols, multiplexing, circuit switching, and packet switching. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory each week.
CS 331 Computer Networking II 4 Cr.
  The second in a two-semester sequence on data communications and computer networking, this course covers topics such as Local Area Network (LAN) technology and specific LAN systems, internetworking principles, and the TCP/IP protocols and applications. Three (3) one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in CS 330. Spring semester.
CS 342 Numerical Computing and Visualization 3 Cr.
  An introductory survey of the basic algorithms used in numerical computing with emphasis on visual presentation of solutions through mathematical graphs, computer graphic representations, and animations. Error analysis is also considered for each algorithm. Algorithms studied include: fixed-point iteration; Newton-Raphson method; Lagrange and Hermite interpolation; Newton-Cotes integral approximation; Euler, Runge-Kutta, and finite difference methods for solving ODE's; and iterative methods for solving nonlinear systems of equations. If time permits, shooting, finite difference, and finite element methds for solving boundary value problems are introduced. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in MA 334. Spring semester. Also cross-listed as MA 342
CS 403 Introduction to Modern Cryptography 4 Cr.
  This course is intended to be an introduction to the essential core areas of modern cryptography. We begin with a look at historical cryptography and then move into more modern concepts. Mathematical background is provided as needed and informal descriptions of the cryptosystems along with more precise psuedo-code descriptions are given. Algorithms and systems will be illustrated with many examples, and their mathematical underpinnings carefully explained. Because of the heavy use of mathematics made in this course (number theory, discrete mathematics, probability, linear algebra and probably some calculus), this course is cross-listed and may be taken either for mathematics or computer science credit. The course is lab-based with each lab illustrating cryptosystems and concepts studied in class. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in MA 131 or MA 122 and MA 328. Fall semester.
Cross-listed as MA 403.
CS 410 Operating Systems 3 Cr.
  This course covers primary OS topics such as process management, device management, and memory management. Also included are issues associated with security and protection, networking, and distributed operating systems. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in CS 110; CS 120; CS 309. Fall semester.
CS 421 Computer and Network Security 4 Cr.
  This course provides an entry-level examination of network security for junior and senior computer science majors. It is designed for students who already have completed at least the first semester of the data communications and networking sequence. The course begins with a discussion of known types of attacks on computers and networks, and techniques used by attackers today. The course then covers the various means of protecting a computer from network attack. With an understanding of these technical issues, the course finally examines how to manage risk, how to develop information security policy, and how to combine everything into an information security process. In the two-hour laboratory each week, students will be allowed to actually utilize the attacker's tools on an isolated, standalone network, i.e., not connected to either the Carroll College network or the Internet. They will then configure the laboratory network computers to help prevent the kings of attacks they are studying. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in CS 330. Spring semester.
CS 430 Senior Project 4 Cr.
  This course will present students with a substantial experience in software engineering. Students will investigate, design, implement, and present a significant software project, working both as individuals and in project teams. Projects will also teach the students about project management concerns. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or better in CS 410 and senior status. Spring semester. May fulfill writing intensive requirement.
CS 495 Computer Science Seminar 3 Cr.
  Various topics not covered in other computer science courses are researched and discussed. Students consider selected readings, and each makes a presentation and leads a discussion on a chosen topic. Normally taken in the last year of residence. Spring semester.
Engineering
ENGR 104 Engineering Graphics & CAD Applications 3 Cr.
  An introduction to modern computer drafting and engineering design using a CAD (computer aided design) software system. Fundamental concepts of technical drawing in two and three dimensions including orthographic projections, isometric projections, three-dimensional and solids modeling, and rendering. Spring Semester.
ENGR 201 Introduction to Engineering 1 Cr.
  This course introduces students to engineering opportunites and the engineering design process. The course is project oriented with assignment emphasis on teamwork to solve problems. The course reviews the various areas of engineering such as water resources, environmental, structural, and transportation along with an introduction to surveying. Fall semester.
ENGR 202 Water Distribution Systems 1 Cr.
  An introduction to water distribution theory and design practice. A project-oriented course that includes water supply, storage, distribution, and computer analysis of water distribution networks. Spring semester.
ENGR 302 Engineering Mechanics I: Statics 3 Cr.
  Equilibrium of bodies under the action of forces. Force systems and resultants; equilibrium of mechanical systems; trusses, frames, and machines; centroids and centers of mass; shear and moments in beams; hydrostatics; friction; and virtual work. Introduction to mechanics of solids and computer analysis of structures, as time permits. Emphasis on solving practical engineering problems in complete, documented style. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in PHYS 205. Spring semester.
ENGR 303 Engineering Mechanics II: Solids 3.5 Cr.
  An introduction to the mechanics of deformable solids. Topics covered include stress, strain, rotation-of-axes transformations, constitutive relations, equilibrium, compatibility requirements, stability, and deformation of structural elements. Uni-axial, torsion, bending, and shear loads on and deformations of prismatic bars are also studied together with Euler buckling of slender columns. Three credits of lecture and one-half credit of laboratory. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in ENGR 302 and MA 334. Fall semester.
ENGR 304 Engineering Mechanics III: Dynamics 3 Cr.
  Continuation of ENGR 301. Motions of bodies under the action of forces; kinematics and kinetics of particles, systems of particles, and rigid bodies; work-energy and impulse-momentum; area and mass moments of inertia. Emphasis on solving practical engineering problems in complete, documented style. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in ENGR 301 and MA 334. Spring semester.
ENGR 305 Electronics and Circuit Analysis I 4 Cr.
  An introductory survey of the behavior of electrical circuits. Review of current, voltage, and passive circuit elements (resistors, capacitors, and inductors). Kirchhoff's Laws, network theorems, and basic network analysis. General characteristics of amplifiers and electronic instrumentation. Introduction to operational amplifiers and active elements (transistors). Laplace transform analysis of transient (switching) response, and complex phasor analysis of sinusoidal steady-state response. Three (3) hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week, in which students build and test circuits and learn how to use typical circuit simulation software (PSPICE). Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in PHYS 202 or PHYS 206, and MA 122 or MA 233. Fall semester. Cross-listed with PHYS 305
ENGR 306 Electronics and Circuit Analysis II 4 Cr.
  A continuation of PHYS/ENGR 305. Systematic node-voltage and mesh-current methods of circuit analysis. Network transfer functions and frequency spectra. Mutual inductance and transformers. Diode circuits and the behavior of single-transistor amplifiers using field-effect or bipolar-junction transistors. Analysis and design of digital logic circuits. Principles of operation and interfacing of typical laboratory instruments. Three (3) hours lecture and one two-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in PHYS/ENGR 305. Offered spring semesters if warranted by sufficient demand. Cross-listed with PHYS 306
ENGR 307 Fluid Mechanics 3 Cr.
  A first course in fluid mechanics for engineering majors. Topics covered include fluid properties, fluid statics, fluid motion, pressure variations in fluid flows, momentum principles, energy principles, dimensional analysis and similitude, surface resistance, flow in conduits, flow measurements, drag, and lift. Two and one-half credits of lecture and one-half credit of laboratory. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in MA 334 and ENGR 302. Fall semester.
ENGR 308 Thermodynamics 3 Cr.
  A practical introduction to thermodynamics for engineering students. Fundamental state variables are defined (e.g., temperature, pressure, energy, enthalpy, entropy, etc.), and the three laws of thermodynamics are extensively discussed and illustrated. Applications include power systems, gas turbines, and refrigerators. Three (3) hours lecture per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in PHYS 205-206 and MA 334. Spring semester. Cross-listed with PHYS 308
ENGR 309 Geotechnical Engineering 3.5 Cr.
  An introduction to geotechnical engineering. Topics covered include an introduction to geology and the classifications of soils, and rocks, and geologic structures. Soil exploration, testing, and classifications are introduced, and soil characteristics and mechanical properties such as compressibility and compaction, permeability and seepage, and stresses in soil structures are also studied. Three credits of lecture and one-half credit of laboratory. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in ENGR 303 and ENGR 307. Spring semester.
ENGR 310 Structures I 3 Cr.
  This is the first in a series of three courses in structural analysis and design. The primary objective of this course is to introduce the principles and methods of analysis for trusses, beams, and frames so that students develop the understanding and the skills necessary to analyze and design statically determinate as well as statically indeterminate structures. While emphasis is on modern computer methods of analysis, elementary methods are also studied so students gain an understanding and feel for the behavior of structures. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or better in ENGR 303. Spring Semester.
ENGR 313 Hydrology 3 Cr.
  This course focuses primarily on the basic principles of the hydrologic cycle such as precipitation, hydrologic abstractions, catchment properties, groundwater flow, and the relationships between precipitation, abstractions, and runoff. A brief portion of the course deals with the measurement of various components of the hydrologic cycle. The engineering applications of basic hydrologic principles are studied. The purpose of this course is to introduce the fundamentals of hydrologic science, which are used to solve typical engineering problems. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in MA 131 or MA 121-122 and MA 232. Fall semester.
ENGR 401 Hydraulics 3 Cr.
  Hydraulic engineering is the application of fluid mechanic principles to deal with collection, storage, conveyance, distribution, control, regulation, measurement, and use of water. This course will focus primarily on analysis and design of pipelines, pumps, and open channel flow systems. The course will also have a design project to provide an opportunity to apply the information in a real engineering situation. Three class hours per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in ENGR 307 Fluid Mechanics. Fall semester.
ENGR 402 Environmental Engineering 3 Cr.
  This course focuses on environmental problems, including their causes, the scientific background needed to understand them, and the methods used to solve them. The fundamental principles of environmental engineering, including sources of water and air pollution, water and wastewater treatment, solid and hazardous waste management, and regulatory issues are presented. Three class hours per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in general chemistry and MA 131 or MA 121-122. Spring semester.
ENGR 403 Structures II (LRFD Steel Design) 3 Cr.
  The purpose of this course is to learn the philosophy and methods of AISC Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) of steel structures. Emphasis is on the determination of loads and load distribution, and the design of structural components (i.e., tension members, compression members, beams, and beam-columns) and their connections, in accordance with the AISC LRFD Specification and the LRFD Manual of Steel Construction. The function and behavior of simple frame structures is also introduced and each student works on a team to complete a design project (a simple, two story structure for an office building). Three class hours per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in ENGR 310. Fall semester.
ENGR 405 Water and Wastewater 4 Cr.
  This course focuses on the fundamental principles for analysis and design of water processing, water distribution, wastewater collection, wastewater treatment, and sludge processing systems. Three class hours and two lab hours per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in ENGR 313 and ENGR 401. Spring semester.
ENGR 406 Structures III (Reinforced Concrete Design) 2 Cr.
  The purpose of this course is to learn the philosophy and methods of ACI strength design of reinforced concrete structures. Emphasis is the design of concrete structural elements including beams, one-way slabs, and columns. The student works on a team to complete a simple design project. There are two class hours per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in ENGR 403. Spring semester.
ENGR 407 Transportation Engineering 3 Cr.
  This is an introductory level transportation-engineering course. The class will discuss traffic characteristics, transportation planning, geometric design of highways, drainage design, traffic safety, highway materials, and pavement design. Three class hours per week. Prerequisites: Grades of "C" or better in MA 131 or MA 121-122 and MA 336. Fall semester.
ENGR 411 Senior Design Project I 1 Cr.
  This course requires the students, working in teams, to take an actual engineering project from the initial proposal stage through the preliminary design phase. Students will conduct the necessary activities and prepare the various documents needed to complete the preliminary design. One class hour per week. Fall semester.
ENGR 412 Senior Design Project II 2 Cr.
  A continuation of ENGR 411, the design process will continue from the preliminary phase to the completion of a conceptual design of the project. The students, working in teams, will prepare design criteria, calculations, and representative engineering drawings of the projectÕs major components. A list and general description of the many details and other miscellaneous activities required to complete the project will also be prepared. Finally, general cost estimates will be computed. Two class hours per week. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in ENGR 411. Spring semester.
Mathematics
MA 105 Introduction to Contemporary Mathematical Applica 3 Cr.
  A course for students with varied mathematical interests and backgrounds. Stresses applications of contemporary mathematics in modern society. Topics include management science, statistics, social choice, patterns, population sizes, and computers. Emphasizes conceptual understanding and appreciation. This course satisfies the Carroll College Core Curriculum for mathematics, but not as a statistics requirement. Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra. Spring semester.
MA 112 Precalculus: Functions and Graphs 3 Cr.
  A comprehensive study of elementary functions to prepare students for a college course in calculus. Topics include a review of intermediate algebra including the solution of equations and inequalities, and an in-depth look at functions, inverse functions, their graphs, symmetries, asymptotes, intercepts, and transformations. Linear, polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions are studied, and graphing calculators are used extensively. Prerequisite: Mathematics preparation at least through Intermediate Algebra. Spring semester.
MA 117 Difference Equations and Linear Algebra 3 Cr.
  Introductory college mathematics course in finite difference equations and linear algebra. Topics include sequences, differences, linear and nonlinear difference equations, systems of difference equations, numerical solutions of linear and nonlinear equations, and analytical techniques for solving linear systems using linear algebra. Applications from many fields are studied and the role of mathematical modeling is a central focus. Formal computer labs are a part of the course each week, with spreadsheets being the primary software employed. This course satisfies a Carroll College Core Curriculum for all students and the mathematics requirement for business majors. Prerequisite: three years of high school mathematics through Intermediate Algebra. Each semester.
MA 121 Differential Calculus 3 Cr.
  This is the first of a two-semester, six-credit calculus sequence. We begin the first semester by reviewing functions from several perspectives (symbolic, numeric, and graphic). For most of the course we study differential calculus, emphasizing how we can use calculus to understand real-world problems such as police radar detection, laying an oil pipeline around a swamp, and understanding motion. We use computers and calculators extensively, and we also focus on learning how to explain mathematics verbally and in writing. The sequence MA 121-MA 122 is considered to be equivalent to MA 131.Prerequisite: Four years of high school mathematics including precalculus.
MA 122 Intregral Calculus 3 Cr.
  This is the second of a two-semester, six-credit calculus sequence. In this course we study topics in integral calculus, emphasizing how we can use calculus to understand real-world problems such as fluid pumping and lifting, how rain catchers are used in city drain systems, and how a compound bow fires an arrow. We use computers and calculators extensively, and we also focus on learning how to explain mathematics verbally and in writing. The sequence MA 121-MA 122 is considered to be equivalent to MA 131. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in MA 121.
MA 131 Calculus of Single Variable Functions 4 Cr.
  This course covers all aspects of single-variable calculus including derivatives, antiderivatives, definite integrals, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. We highlight how we can use calculus to understand real-world problems such as laying an oil pipeline around a swamp, fluid pumping and lifting, and how rain catchers are used in city drain systems. We use computers and calculators extensively, meeting in the computer lab once each week. We also focus on learning how to explain mathematics verbally and in writing. This is the same material that is covered in MA 121-122, except this is an accelerated course that does not review precalculus material. Prerequisite: Previous calculus experience or strong precalculus background. Fall semester.
MA 201 Mathematics for Elementary Education I 3 Cr.
  A course primarily for prospective elementary teachers, designed to give a background in logic, set theory, the set of integers and their properties, the system of rational numbers, and real numbers as an extension of the rationals. Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra. Fall semester.
MA 202 Mathematics for Elementary Education II 3 Cr.
  An extension of MA 201 into geometry and measurement, functions and their graphs, and a brief introduction to probability and statistics. Special emphasis will be given to the development of skills in problem-solving and to applications. Prerequisite: MA 201. Spring semester.
MA 207 Elementary Statistics 3 Cr.
  The basic concepts used in statistics such as measures of central tendency, variation, probability distributions, and statistical inference are stressed. Applications are made in the social, communication, health, biological, and physical sciences. This course does not count toward a major or minor in mathematics. Prerequisites: Intermediate Algebra. Each semester.
MA 232 Differential Equations & Linear Algebra I 4 Cr.
  This course is an introduction to difference equations, differential equations, and linear algebra. Specific topics include analytical and numerical solutions to difference equations and first-order linear differential equations, phase line analysis, stability of equilibrium, matrix equations and eigenvalues. We emphasize how this mathematics can be used on many real-world problems such as how to predict the spread of a disease, how a home mortgage works, and how to understand the growth of animal populations. We use computers and calculators extensively, meeting in the computer lab once each week. We also focus on learning how to explain mathematics verbally and in writing. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in MA 131 or in MA 122. Spring semester.
MA 233 Multivariable Calculus 4 Cr.
  In this course we study multivariable and vector calculus including vectors, parametric equations, surfaces, partial differentiation, multiple integrals, and vector calculus. The big spotlight in this course is using these ideas to understand things like force fields, the flow of water, and magnetic fields. Once a week we meet in the computer lab to use the power of computers to focus on the visual aspects of these concepts to gain insight into more complex situations. We also focus on learning how to explain mathematics verbally and in writing. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in MA 131 or in MA 122. Fall semester.
MA 301 Foundations of Mathematics 3 Cr.
  An examination of logic, sets, functions, and methods of proof as a foundation for the study of mathematics. Other topics covered include mathematical induction, recursive definitions, relations (equivalence relations), elementary number theory, transformational geometry, and some history of mathematics. Prerequisite: Grade of "C" or better in MA 233. Spring semester.
MA 328 Modern Applications of Discrete Mathematics 3 Cr.
  A look at some actual applications of discrete mathematics that emphasize such unifying themes as mathematical reasoning, alagorithmic thinking, modeling, combinatorial analysis, the kinds of structures used in discrete mathematics, and the use of technology. Possible topics include cryptography, primes and factoring, computer passwords, networking problems, shortest paths, scheduling problems, building circuits, modeling computation, and correctness of algorithms. Three (3) one-hour class periods with a substantial computing component illustrating the technology and the ideas studied. Prerequisite: Grades of "C" of better in MA 131-232. Fall semester.
MA 334 Differential Equations & Linear Algebra II 4 Cr.
  In this course, we focus on both systems of differential equations, with special attention given to modeling, linearization, and equilibrium analysis; as well as the mathematical language of systems - linear algebra, especially transformations and vector spaces. We will motivate the material through applications such as population models, structural, and electrical systems, and linear algebra applications such as 3-D imaging, Markov processes, and Leslie matrices. Technology will again play a major role in this course, as we will have frequent computer demonstrations in class and weekly computer labs to explore the quantitative aspects of these topics. You will have the opportunity to explore topics beyond the textbook on a series of group projects throughout the semester. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in MA 232. Spring semester.
MA 336 Probability and Statistics I 2 Cr.
  This course is a calculus-based introduction to basic concepts in probability and statistics. Topics in probability include: probability of simple and compound events; an introduction to discrete and continuous random variables including the uniform, binomial, and normal distributions, and random event simulation. Topics in statistics include statistical measures and graphs and simple linear regression. We begin to learn how to perform statistical analysis on data sets and draw appropriate conclusions based on their analysis. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in MA 131 or in MA 122. Spring semester.
MA 341 Probability and Statistics II 3 Cr.
  A calculus-based course in applied probability and statistics. Many types of univariate and multivariate probability distributions are derived and applications are studied. Exposes the student to various decision-making techniques when working with statistical information. Students also gain experience with statistical computing software. Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or better in MA 336 or consent of instructor. Fall semester. Fulfills writing intensive requirement.
MA 342 Numerical Computing and Visualization 3 Cr.
  In this course we study the basic numerical methods used by computers to solve a wide variety of problems, emphasizing how we can use graphics to understand how things work. We focus not just on how these methods work, but when they are appropriate, where they fail, and how to interpret their results. This course is designed around a series of open-ended projects based on real-world problems, such as how to predict the price of heating oil, testing rocket orbital trajectories, and studying the flow of heat throughout a building. The topics we study include least squares regression methods, interpolation, curve fitting, and the numerical solution of a wide range of differential equations (both ODEs and PDEs). Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or better in MA 334. Spring semester. This course satisfies the mathematics writing intensive requirement.
MA 366 Junior Seminar 1 Cr.
  This is a one-credit, pass/fail, seminar-style course. There will be three main segments: select a faculty director for either an honors thesis or a senior project and write a research proposal, write a resume and research job opportunities, and write a graduate school essay and research graduate school opportunities. The overall goal of this course is to prepare students for their senior year and beyond. This course should be taken in the spring of the year before intended graduation (typically in the spring of the junior year). Spring semester annually.
MA 401 Modern Algebra & Applied Geometry 3 Cr.
  This course covers the traditional topics from abstract algebra, including groups, rings, integral domains, fields, and homomorphic and isomorphic relationships, as well as standard topics from geometry, including axiomatic systems in both Euclidean and Non-Euclidean geometrics and transformational geometry with vectors and matrices. The focus for the class is the contemporary applications of the concepts presented, together with the weaving together of geometric and algebraic themes. Linear algebra is the integrating theme. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or better in MA 301.
MA 403 Introduction to Modern Cryptography 4 Cr.
  This course is intended to be an introduction to the essential core areas of modern cryptography. We begin with a look at historical cryptography and then move into more modern concepts. Mathematical background is provided as needed and informal descriptions of the cryptosystems along with more precise psuedo-code descriptions are given. Algorithms and systems will be illustrated with many examples, and their mathematical underpinnings carefully explained. Because of the heavy use of mathematics made in this course (number theory, descrete mathematics, probability, linear algebra and probably some calculus), this course is cross-listed and may be taken either for mathematics or computer science credit. The course is lab-based with each lab illustrating cryptosystems and concepts studied in class. Prerequisties: Grades of "C" or better in MA 131 or MA 122 and MA 328. Fall semester.
MA 421 Mathematical Optimization, Applications & Analysis 3 Cr.
  This course is a project-based exploration of topics in optimization and mathematical programming, such as linear, integer, nonlinear, and stochastic programming. We explore the modeling, algorithmic and heuristic solution approaches to, and sensitivity analysis of problems such as the Knapsack problem, Traveling Salesman problem, and the Ising spin glass problem. Computers and technology will again play an important role as we investigate both the implementation and the theoretical basis of solution techniques. This course will bring together topics from single and multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and probability. Prerequisite: Grades of C or better in MA 334 and in MA 336. Fall semester.
MA 471 History Seminar in Mathematics 1 Cr.
  This course in the history of mathematics is intended to give students an insight into some of the great masterpieces of mathematics, as seen in their historical contexts. Developing an understanding of the individuals who were the creators of mathematics helps one better appreciate their creations. Since mathematics is an ever-growing discipline in which new ideas are built upon the old, half the semester is dedicated to 20th century developments in mathematics. Required course for mathematics secondary-education majors. Offered when demand is sufficient.