Course Descriptions
Students who wish to register for a mathematics course must meet the necessary prerequisites, as stated in the Schedule of Classes. Students unsure of whether they meet the prerequisites should contact a mathematics faculty member.
All CLU students are required to meet the Mathematical Reasoning Proficiency under Core 21. Students who meet the proficiency requirement may still need to meet specific mathematics requirements for their majors.
MATH 110 Intermediate Algebra
4 credits
Covers equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational and radical expressions, exponents, graphing linear equations and inequalities, linear systems, exponential and logarithmic functions and places extensive emphasis on word problems. This course is appropriate for students with Math SAT 500 or below. Does not meet the Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 115 Finite Mathematics
4 credits
Studies the elementary models in business and social sciences including systems of linear equations and inequalities, matrices, interest, annuities and an introduction to probability and statistics. Recommended for business and social science majors. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 510 or above. Satisfies Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 120 Algorithms for Arithmetic
2 credits
This course is designed for the prospective elementary school teacher, and emphasis is on understanding the deep mathematical ideas necessary for superb teaching of elementary school mathematics. Communication and group work are expected. Topics include number sense, representations of numbers, number systems, creating and analyzing algorithms for arithmetic operations, recognition and analysis of patterns, problem solving, algebraic thinking, and issues of access and pedagogy. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 510 or above. Does not meet the Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 128 Topics in Liberal Arts Math
4 credits
This course engages the students in an exploration of the nature of mathematics as well as a selection of mathematical topics chosen to illustrate why mathematics is one of the original liberal arts. An emphasis is placed on problem solving and communication of ideas through writing and class discussions. The nature of mathematics as well as two-, three- and four-dimensional geometry, and probability and statistics will be included each semester. Other topics will be chosen by the instructor. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 510 or above. Satisfies Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 140 Contextual Math (Discontinued)
3 credits
This course will enhance students’ comfort and proficiency in mathematics as applied to various topics within the natural sciences. This course is offered as part of a two course cluster with Science 100 in order to enable the student to develop an appreciation of the role of mathematics and modeling within the natural sciences. Topics include algebraic manipulation of equations, linear, quadratic, polynomial, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic equations and functions, solving linear systems of equations, solving optimization problems given linear inequality constraints, vector decomposition and applications and other topics. Corequisite: Science 100. Prerequisite: SAT score of 510 or higher or successful completion of Math 110: Intermediate Algebra.
MATH 145 Business Mathematics
4 credits
This course studies the elementary models of mathematics in business settings including the use of functions to model concepts such as revenue and profit, as well as interest and annuities. Additional topics include linear regression, decision trees, and an introduction to probability and statistics. Recommended for Business majors. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 500 or above. Satisfies Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 151 Precalculus
4 credits
Includes real numbers, equations, polynomials, inequalities, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 510 or above. Prerequisite: Mathematics 110 or Math SAT 510 or above. Satisfies Core-21 mathematical reasoning requirement.
MATH 231 Biostatistics
4 credits
Introduces the principles, methods of reasoning and procedures pertinent to the collection, summarization, analysis and presentation of biomedical data. Laboratory sessions are included to facilitate data handling and analysis. Topics include sampling and experimental design, descriptive statistics, probability, statistical inference and interpretation of results, simple regression and clinical trials. Prerequisite: Mathematics 151 or Math SAT 600 or above.(offered in spring)
MATH 241 Discrete Mathematics
4 credits
Studies set theory, number systems, the nature of proofs, recursion, algorithms, graph theory and problem solving. Required for math, computer science and computer information systems majors. Prerequisite: Mathematics 151 or Math SAT 600 or above. (offered in fall)
MATH 245 Applied Calculus
4 credits
This course examines methods of mathematics used in business and economics, with a focus on problem solving and applications. It includes the ideas of differential calculus, including applications to marginal analysis (cost, revenue, profit), the elasticity of demand, and optimization. Concepts of integration up through substitution are included. Optimization is further examined through systems of linear equations and matrices, linear programming and a brief introduction to game theory. Required for Business Majors. Prerequisite: Mathematics 115, Mathematics 145 or Math SAT 600 or above.
MATH 250 Business Calculus (Discontinued)
4 credits
Studies functions, limits, continuity, rates and marginal analysis, practical optimization,
exponential and logarithm functions and compounded interest. Includes the definite
integral, profit/surplus analysis, numerical integration, differential equations, probabilitydensity functions, Lagrange multipliers, Taylor approximation and Newton’s Method.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 115 or Math SAT 600 or above.
MATH 251 Calculus I
4 credits
Studies the concepts of the derivative and the definite integral of functions of one variable. Included are applications to rates and areas, differentials and basic modeling. A weekly computer lab is a key component of the course. Prerequisite: Mathematics 151 or Math SAT 600 or above.
MATH 252 Calculus II
4 credits
Continues the study of differentiation and integration begun in Calculus I. Introduces indefinite integration and applications of the definite integral. Differential equations and elementary methods to solve them are presented, along with slope fields and some modeling applications. Includes Taylor polynomials and series. A weekly computer lab is a key component of the course. Prerequisite: Mathematics 251
MATH 261 Calculus III
4 credits
Calculus III extends the concepts of calculus to a multivariable perspective. Topics such as functions, derivatives, integrals and various coordinate systems are used to explore change modeled by two or more variables. Vector algebra and vector fields are introduced to study the motion of objects. A weekly computer laboratory session facilitates exploration, visualization and reinforcement of the main topics of the course. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252 (offered in fall)
MATH 265 Differential Equations
4 credits
Focuses on the formulation of appropriate equations to represent phenomena, the solution (when possible) of such equations and understanding and interpreting the solutions of these equations. Graphical and analytical methods will be explored, as will numerical techniques. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252. Recommended: Mathematics 261.(offered in spring)
MATH 282 Selected Topics
4 credits
MATH 320 Elementary Mathematical Analysis
4 credits
An introduction to mathematical analysis emphasizing conjecture and proof. Content includes elementary logic and quantifiers, manipulations with sets, relations and functions, properties of the real number system, supremums and infimums, sequences and limits of sequences, and the topology of the real line. This course will introduce students to the concepts and techniques of mathematical proof. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252, Recommended: Mathematics 241.
MATH 343 Linear Algebra
4 credits
An introduction to solving systems of linear equations through the use of concepts such as vector spaces, linear transformations, matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Students will enhance mathematical communication skills through reading and writing proofs and will explore interdisciplinary applications of the theory of linear algebra in projects and computer laboratory assignments.Prerequisite: Mathematics 252. Recommended: Mathematics 261.
MATH 352 Probability and Statistics I
4 credits
This course introduces the concepts of probability and statistics. Topics include methods of data description, probability theory, a study of several discrete and continuous distributions, the central limit theorem, estimation of parameters, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252. Recommended: Mathematics 261.
MATH 381 Geometry
4 credits
This course primarily investigates the integration of geometries on the plane, sphere and hyperbolic plane. An emphasis is placed on experiencing the meanings in the geometry. Student investigations, small-group learning and writing assignments will be used to explore geometrical ideas. The history and culture of mathematics, particularly as reflected by the development of geometrical understanding, will be threaded through the course. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252. Recommended: Mathematics 261 and 343.
MATH 382 Number Theory
4 credits
This course focuses on the properties of integers and the history of the discovery of these properties. Topics include fundamental theorems on divisibility, primes and congruences, as well as number-theoretical functions, Diophantine equations, quadratic reciprocity, and Fermat’s Last Theorem. This course will introduce students to the concepts and techniques of mathematical proof. Prerequisites: Mathematics 252. Recommended: Mathematics 241.
MATH 420 Real Analysis
4 credits
A study of the real number system, set theory, sequences, functions, continuity, differentiation and Riemann-Stieltjes integration, with an emphasis on developing the ability to communicate mathematically. Prerequisite: Mathematics 252 and either Mathematics 320 (preferred) or Mathematics 382.
MATH 425 Abstract Algebra
4 credits
Studies the theory of integers, groups, rings, fields and polynomials.Prerequisite: Mathematics 241 and either Mathematics 382 (preferred) or Mathematics 320.
MATH 440 Mathematical Methods of Physics
4 credits
Mathematics with a focus to meet the needs of students with a major or minor in physics or engineering disciplines. Topics include: complex variables, linear algebra, coordinate transformations, vector analysis, Fourier series and transforms; Laplace transforms, the Dirac delta function, Green functions, calculus of variations and solution techniques for partial differential equations with specific applications to Laplace’s equation. Prerequisites: Math 261 and Physics 212. Recommended Math 265.(Cross-listed with Physics 440)
MATH 450 Complex Analysis
4 credits
A study of the complex number system. Topics include complex numbers and functions, analytic functions, integration, series, contour integrals and conformal mapping. Prerequisite: Mathematics 261 and one other upper division mathematics course.
MATH 452 Probability and Statistics II
4 credits
Extends the concepts of probability and statistics through a multivariable perspective. Studies statistical models through topics such as experimental design, regression, analysis of variance, contingency tables and order statistics. Data handling and analysis are conducted with the aid of statistical software.Prerequisites: Mathematics 261 and 352.
MATH 474 Capstone Preparation
2 credits
Whether in industry, graduate school, or in your capstone project, skills in formulating answerable questions, identifying relevant sources, and locating helpful ideas is important. This course investigates the diversity of mathematical topics, skills for researching the topics, and the components of a project proposal. The course culminates in a written and oral presentation of a project proposal. Prerequisite: Mathematics major or minor and Junior standing.
MATH 475 Capstone
2 credits
The Capstone in mathematics is intentionally open-ended. The focus of the course centers on the Mathematics majors designing and carrying out individual projects suited to their interests and post-graduation goals. Weekly class meetings will be run in seminar fashion: each student will be expected to present at least one report on a) the culture of mathematics, b) the relationship between mathematics and other disciplines or career avenues or c) a moral/ethical issue related to mathematics. Prerequisite: senior standing.
MATH 482 Selected Topics
4 credit
MATH 485 Seminar
2-4 credits
MATH 490 Independent Study
1 credit
MATH 492 Cooperative Education
1-2 credits
(graded P/NC only)
