Fall 2026
MATH 362 (3) Elementary Number Theory
In number theory we study properties of the integers and functions defined on the integers. What could be simpler? Yet, the field is full of intriguing, beautiful, deep questions. Some of the best minds in mathematics have been occupied with the study of the integers. Number Theory is a branch of mathematics is that is both ancient and new. Some of the earliest investigations date back to the time of Mesopotamia (1800 BC) and to Euclid in ancient Greece (300 BC). Many of the most recent Fields Medals, the equivalent of a Nobel Prize in mathematics, have been awarded for work in number theory.
Furthermore, number theory is the backbone of modern cryptography. Whenever we need to transmit data securely, odds are, we will be using number theory to do so. Do you enjoy thinking about questions that are simple to state, but that require creative thinking to solve? Number theory might be for you!
Prerequisites: MATH 123 and 6 credits of 200-level math courses (excluding MATH 203, 211 and 254) with a minimum of a "C" in each course.
MATH 372 (3) Introductory Complex Variables
The course will begin with the definition and algebra of complex numbers. We will then move on to investigate how to generalize the basic constructs of calculus, the derivative and the integral, in a way that leads to simple and elegant solutions to many problems from calculus over the real numbers. Time permitting we will touch on some open problems, including one of the most famous unsolved problems in mathematics: The Riemann Hypothesis.
Prerequisites: A minimum of "C" in both MATH 123 and MATH 221.
Spring 2027
MATH 330 (3) Introduction to Abstract Algebra
Abstract algebra, or modern algebra as it is sometimes known, is a cornerstone of modern mathematics. This branch of mathematics studies mathematical structures known as groups, rings and fields.
Group theory can be thought of as the mathematical study of symmetry. In ring theory we examine mathematical objects that are similar to the integers, to polynomials and to matrices. Field theory is concerned with studying mathematical objects that behave like the real and complex numbers.
There are also numerous applications of modern algebra: symmetries of crystals, quantum mechanics, cryptography, coding theory, computer algebra systems and digital signal processing.
Apart from these applications, studying modern algebra is an incredibly rewarding experience. The ideas within it fit together perfectly to form a beautiful intellectual puzzle.
Like number theory, modern algebra is full of questions that are simple to state, but that require creative thinking to solve. If this appeals to you, abstract algebra might be right up your alley!
Prerequisites: Minimum of a "C" in each of MATH 241 and MATH 223.
MATH 370 (3) Mathematical Theory of Interest
This course provides a rigorous mathematical foundation for the time value of money, exploring
the quantitative techniques used to evaluate financial transactions and instruments. The course
covers the mechanics of interest and discount rates, the valuation of level and varying annuities,
and the application of these principles to loan amortization, sinking funds, and bond pricing. By
integrating theory with practical financial applications, the course also introduces the valuation of
stocks and basic investment contracts, equipping students with the analytical tools necessary for
actuarial science, borrowing and lending analysis, pension planning and investment modelling.
Here’s a typical ’real life’ example that might be considered in this course: A 24 year old begins a
new job and is already thinking ahead to retirement in 35 years or so. They would like to save
and invest a portion of their earnings so that they can fund an annual pension in retirement equal
to 80% of their earnings in their final working year. What percentage of their salary should they
invest each year to reach this savings goal? A complete answer requires several assumptions:
What pay raises are reasonable over the person’s working life? What investment return can the
person achieve in their investment account? How many years can the person expect to live in
retirement? Once assumptions are made, the mathematical theory of interest allows for a precise
answer to our question, and of equal importance, the theory provides insight into the sensitivity of
the answer to the assumptions made.
Prerequisites: A minimum of a "C" in MATH 122.
MATH 470 (3) Applied Stochastic Modelling
The natural world abounds with phenomena that evolve in a complex manner over time including: mutations in DNA, the emergence (and extinction) of certain species, changes in plate tectonics (in geoscience), changes to global climate, the spread of virus and other contagions, the ignition and spread of forest fires, the migration and growth/decline of human and animal populations, the evolution of galaxies, and the list goes on.
On a human scale, there are key systems which also exhibit complex behaviors and evolutions, including: changes to spoken/written
languages, the internet, communication and transportation networks, the growth/decline of markets and economies, and the spread of urban
areas ("urban sprawl").
To successfully model (and predict) the behavior of any of the above listed systems, one must take into account the randomness inherent in such systems. With this goal in mind, in MATH 470 we will study and apply the core stochastic models which have a proven track-record at modelling these and other randomly evolving systems.
This course will begin with a self-contained basic probability module and does not require any prior background in statistics or probability.
Prerequisites: Minimum of a "C" in each of MATH 221 and MATH 241.
Ongoing offerings
MATH 491 (6) Undergraduate Research Project
An opportunity for senior students to gain experience in mathematical research under the guidance of a faculty member. Project duration is two consecutive academic semesters during which student must pursue an independent project, prepare a written report, and present their results in a seminar. (0:2:0 for 30 weeks)
Prerequisite: 12 upper-level MATH credits, approval of Faculty Advisor, and permission of the Chair.