May 05, 2024  
College Catalog 2015-2016 
    
College Catalog 2015-2016 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 The following is a complete listing of the courses offered at Elizabethtown College. Use the filter to narrow your search.

 

Mathematics

  
  • MA 101 - Precalculus Review

    2.00 credits
    A review of topics in algebra and trigonometry for students intending to take MA 121 Calculus I. This course may only be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Register by Instructor.
  
  • MA 105 - Mathematics for Liberal Studies

    4.00 credits.
    An introduction to mathematical structures and applications designed to help students understand the historical and contemporary role of mathematics in everyday life. The course includes a substantial review of algebraic concepts, and topics from other areas such as logic, set theory, number systems, probability, graph theory and matrix algebra. NOTE: This course will satisfy Mathematics Core AU for students enrolled prior to Fall 2013. Register by Instructor.
  
  • MA 117 - Concepts of Calculus

    4.00 credits.
    Designed to give students in the biological, social and management sciences a firm working knowledge of calculus. The approach is intuitive, with emphasis on applications. Topics include differentiation, curve sketching, optimization, logarithmic and exponential functions, and integration. Note: Students who have received credit for MA 121  may not enroll in this course. NOTE: This course will satisfy Mathematics Core AU for students enrolled prior to Fall 2013.
  
  • MA 121 - MA Calculus I

    4.00 credits.
    (Mathematics Core Course)
    A thorough introduction to the basic concepts and techniques of the differential and integral calculus of elementary functions, including a study of limits and continuity. Applications to the physical, biological and social sciences are studied in detail. Note: Students who have received four credits for MA 117  receive two credits for this course.
  
  • MA 122 - Calculus II

    4.00 credits.
    A continuation of MA 121  involving the calculus of the trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic and rational functions. Analytic geometry in the plane, parametric equations, polar coordinates, sequences and series are included, and an in-depth study of integration is completed. *Prerequisite(s): Grade of C- or better in MA 121 .
  
  • MA 130 - Creative Problem Solving I

    2.00 credits.
    An introduction to mathematical problem solving at the college level. Students are challenged to solve math problems using their own creativity instead of relying upon standard methods and algorithms, and to communicate their solutions clearly and concisely to others. Register by Instructor.
  
  • MA 201 - Linear Algebra

    4.00 credits.
    A presentation of the basic concepts and techniques of linear algebra including vectors, vector spaces, matrices, determinants, systems of linear equations, eigenvectors and linear transformations. Students will be expected to do mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite(s): MA 122 . Spring semester.
  
  • MA 205 - Mathematics for the Elementary Teacher

    4.00 credits.
    A course designed to build understanding of K-8 math concepts. Students are required to explain their reasoning, learn multiple representations of concepts, and create alternative algorithms. Effective Fall 2014, students who have received academic credit for MA 206 are prohibited from registering in MA 205.
  
  • MA 222 - Calculus III

    4.00 credits.
    A continuation of MA 122 , that completes the topics of the calculus sequence, including three-dimensional analytic geometry, vectors and vector valued functions, and calculus of functions of several variables. *Prerequisite(s): Grade of C- or better in MA 122 .
  
  • MA 235 - Introduction to Mathematical Proofs

    4.00 credits.
    Topics include logic, sets, functions, relations, mathematical induction, combinatorics and other counting techniques, graphs and trees. Special emphasis will be given to writing correct mathematical proofs. *Prerequisite(s): MA 122 . Spring semester.
  
  • MA 251 - MA Probability and Statistics

    4.00 credits.
    (Mathematics Core Course)
    Covers the basic principles of descriptive statistics, experimental design and statistical inference. The primary objective of this course is to introduce students to statistical thinking and methodology, and their use in the natural and social sciences.
  
  • MA 252 - Statistical Methods in Research

    4.00 credits.
    A second course in Statistics, introducing students to major statistical methods for research in the physical and life sciences, business, economics, and the social sciences. Topics include comparison of means, design of experiments and ANOVA, categorical analysis, regression, time series, and nonparametric methods. Statistical software is used, and students pursue a research project that requires statistical analysis, culminating in a written research report, and an oral presentation. *Prerequisite(s): MA 251 . Spring semester.
  
  • MA 255 - Financial Mathematics

    4.00 credits.
    This course introduces the mathematical foundations of interest theory and financial derivatives. Topics include: measurement of interest; annuities certain; yield rates; amortization schedules and sinking funds; bonds and related securities; yield curves, spot rates, and forward rates; convexity and immunization; derivative securities; forward contracts; put and call options, including put-call parity; hedging; futures; and swaps. This is a first course aimed at students preparing for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite(s): MA 117 MA 121 . Fall semester.
  
  • MA 256 - Problem Solving in Financial Mathematics

    2.00 credits.
    This is an intensive course based on the theoretical knowledge obtained in MA 255 . Numerous practical examples and problems will give the student a firm grasp of the underlying theory. The course is specifically geared towards the students’ preparation for the Actuarial Examination FM. *Prerequisite(s): MA 255 . Spring semesters.
  
  • MA 260 - Introductory Mathematica and Cryptology

    2.00 credits.
    This course provides an introduction to the use of Mathematica and elementary cryptology. Math- ematica is powerful, all-purpose, mathematical software that can be used in a variety of academic, research, and business settings and its utility will be demonstrated in the context of historical encryption algorithms and public key cryptography.
  
  • MA 262 - Financial Mathematics with Excel

    2.00 credits.
    In this course we will use Excel to study concepts and solve problems from financial mathematics. Topics will include: simple and compound interest, present and future value, discount rate, nominal rate, effective rate, force of interest, annuities, perpetuities, amortized loans, sinking funds, bonds, yield rate, and immunization. Alternating years.
  
  • MA 301 - Abstract Algebra

    4.00 credits.
    A study of algebraic structures, such as groups, rings, integral domains, fields, polynomial rings and ideals. Also included are topics from number theory, divisibility, congruence and construction of number systems. Selected advanced topics - such as series of groups, Sylow Theorems, unique factorization domains, and field extensions - also will be covered. *Prerequisite(s): MA 201  and MA 235 . Fall semester.
  
  • MA 321 - Differential Equations

    4.00 credits.
    A study of analytical and numerical approaches to ordinary differential equations and related topics and applications including complex arithmetic, matrix algebra, Fourier series, Fourier transforms, Laplace transforms,  mechanical vibrations, and RLC circuits. *Prerequisite(s): Grade of C- or better in MA 122 . Spring semester.
  
  • MA 331 - Operations Research

    4.00 credits.
    A study of mathematical techniques and models used to solve problems from business, management and various other areas. Topics include linear programming, integer programming, dynamic programming, queuing theory, decision analysis, network analysis and simulations. *Prerequisite(s): MA 201  or MA 321 .
  
  • MA 341 - Modern Geometry

    4.00 credits.
    The concept of geometry as a logical system based upon postulates and undefined elements, along with an appreciation of the historical evolution of geometries. Topics include incidence geometries, planes and space, congruence, inequalities, parallel postulates, parallel projections, similarities, circles and additional theorems. *Prerequisite(s): MA 235 . Fall semester, odd-numbered years.
  
  • MA 351 - Theory of Probability

    4.00 credits.
    A comprehensive development of the theory of probability. Topics include the basic principles of combinatorial analysis useful in computing probabilities, conditional probability, independence of events, Bayes’ Rule, discrete and continuous random variables, jointly distributed random variables, expected values and variances, and limit theorems involving sums of independent random variables. *Prerequisite(s): MA 222  and MA 235 . Fall semester.
  
  • MA 352 - Mathematical Statistics

    4.00 credits.
    A study of principles of statistical inference in the theory of statistics, with an emphasis on estimation, hypothesis testing and nonparametric statistics. The objective of this course is to build a solid undergraduate foundation in statistical theory and to provide an indication of the relevance and importance of the theory in solving practical problems. *Prerequisite(s): MA 201  and MA 351 . Spring semester, even years.
  
  • MA 355 - Problem Solving in Actuarial Science

    2.00 credits.
    Fundamental mathematical tools for quantitatively assessing and managing risk are developed. A basic knowledge of calculus and probability is assumed. Specifically geared towards the student’s preparation for the Actuarial Examination P. *Prerequisite(s): MA 351 . Spring semester.
  
  • MA 370-378 - Special Topics in Mathematics

    Variable credit.
    Topics of special interest to advanced undergraduate mathematics students. *Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department Chair. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • MA 400 - Senior Project

    Variable (2.00 to 4.00) credits.
    An intensive, individual project, which must involve material not covered in regular course offerings, and be approved and guided by a faculty member. The student writes a paper (involving original exposition, original research or both) and presents her/his findings orally. To earn four credits for this course, a student must make an approved oral presentation outside of Elizabethtown College. Completion of this course does not assure recognition for Honors in the Discipline. *Prerequisite(s): Permission of Instructor. Signature Learning Experience: Supervised Research. Graded Pass/No Pass. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • MA 421 - Real Analysis

    4.00 credits.
    A rigorous study of the fundamental concepts of analysis, including such topics as sequences of real numbers, limits, continuity, differentiation and integration. *Prerequisite(s): MA 201 , MA 222  and MA 235 . Fall semester.
  
  • MA 425 - Complex Variables

    4.00 credits.
    A study of complex numbers, analytic functions, Cauchy’s Theorem, the maximum modulus theorem, harmonic functions, power series, Laurent’s series, calculation of residues, evaluation of real integrals, and conformal mappings. *Prerequisite(s): MA 222  and MA 235 . Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
  
  • MA 430 - Creative Problem Solving II

    2.00 credits.
    A culmination of learning in the Mathematics major in which students integrate, synthesize, and apply concepts and techniques from required major courses to solve mathematical problems at an advanced level. *Prerequisite(s): MA 235  and junior class standing or higher. Signature Learning Experience: Capstone Experience. Register by Instructor.
  
  • MA 441 - Topology

    4.00 credits.
    A rigorous introduction to the elements of point-set topology, including infinite cardinalities; abstract topological spaces; abstract continuity; separation and closure of sets in topological spaces; connectedness and compactness. More advanced topics in topology will be explored through required oral presentations. *Prerequisite(s): MA 235 . Spring semester, even-numbered years.
  
  • MA 457 - Actuarial Models - Financial Economics

    4.00 credits.
    A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain financial models used by actuaries. Topics include interest rate models, rational valuation of derivative securities, and risk management techniques. *Prerequisite(s): MA 255  and MA 351 . Signature Learning Experience: Capstone Experience. Spring semester, even-numbered years.
  
  • MA 458 - Actuarial Models - Life Contingencies

    4.00 credits.
    A comprehensive development of the theoretical basis of certain actuarial models and the application of those models to insurance and other financial risks. Topics include survival models, Markov Chain models, life insurances and annuities, and Poisson processes. *Prerequisite(s): MA 255  and MA 351 . Signature Learning Experience: Capstone Experience. Spring semester, odd-numbered years.
  
  • MA 460 - Numerical Methods and Matlab

    2.00 credits.
    A study of numerical methods using the powerful software package Matlab. Topics include solutions of nonlinear equations in one or more variables, optimization, interpolation, numerical differentiation and integration, matrix algebra, and differential equations. Emphasis is placed on the use of routines built into Matlab. *Prerequisite(s): MA 201  or MA 321 .
  
  • MA 463 - Advanced Excel with Applications to Mathematics

    2.00 credits.
    In this course we will learn to use advanced features of Excel to solve problems in mathematics. Topics will include Excel formulas, using the Solver, pivot tables, performing spreadsheet what-if analysis, graphing, and an introduction to VBA programming. *Prerequisite(s): MA 122 . Alternating years.
  
  • MA 464 - Geogebra

    2.00 credits.
    In this course we will explore Geogebra, a free software package developed for teaching and learning mathematics in schools at both the high school and collegiate level. Topics will include geometric constructions, algebraic input, the spreadsheet feature, animations, custom tools, creating dynamic interactive worksheets for the web using Javascript, and creating slide shows for presentations. *Prerequisite(s): MA 122 . Alternating years.
  
  • MA 470-474 - Internship in Mathematics

    Variable (0.00 to 8.00) credit(s).
    Opportunity for students to intern in a mathematical setting. Signature Learning Experience: Internship. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • MA 480-489 - Independent Study in Mathematics

    Variable credit.
    *Prerequisite(s): Approval of Department Chair and Independent Study Committee. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.
  
  • MA 490 - Research in Mathematics

    Variable (0.00 to 4.00) credit(s).
    An independent research project in mathematics under the close supervision of a faculty member. Signature Learning Experience: Supervised Research. Register by Instructor. This course is repeatable for credit.