Mathematics

Degrees and Certificates

Mission Statement of the Mathematics Department

The Department of Mathematical Sciences supports the mission of Felician University to provide rigorous mathematics courses to students in all majors and at all levels.  The mathematics curriculum is designed to promote the student’s ability to think critically, understand mathematical concepts, their interrelations, and applications, and provide a symbolic language as a tool for precise reasoning, expression, and computation. 

Mathematics Learning Outcomes

At the end of their program in Mathematics students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in fundamental content in mathematics.
  2. Identify the interrelationship between mathematical areas.
  3. Interpret, model, and analyze real world scenarios mathematically.
  4. Communicate mathematical concepts in written and oral formats.
  5. Take responsibility for and exhibit passion about their personal learning of mathematics.

Classes

MATH-122: Statistics I

Credits 3

This introductory course covers descriptive statistics and most of the fundamental concepts of inferential statistics. Topics include populations, random samples, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, binomial and normal distributions, standard scores, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, student’s “t,” Chi-squared, analysis of variance, linear regression, and correlation. (every semester)

MATH 001: Basic Skills in Mathematics (Pre-Algebra)

Credits 4

This course provides a refresher in basic arithmetic. The criterion for placement in the course is failure to pass the pre-algebra portion of the college’s Basic skills Placement Test (Accuplacer). Topics include fractions, decimals, ratio and proportion, percentages, rational numbers and solving equations. A “C” is the minimum acceptable grade to progress to the next course. (fall)

MATH 002: Basic Skills in Mathematics (Algebra)

Credits 3

The principal objective of this course is to bring students up to college proficiency in basic algebra skills. The criterion for placement in the course is failure to pass the algebra portion of the college’s Basic Skills Placement Test (Accuplacer) . This course presumes mastery of the basic computational skills covered in MATH 001. Topics include solving equations (with applications), polynomials, factoring, graphing linear equations and inequalities, solving systems of linear equations, and radical expressions. A “C” is the minimal acceptable grade to progress to the next course. (every semester). 3 credits (in-house)

MATH 110: Mathematics for Financial Decision-Making

Credits 3

This course emphasizes the practical application of mathematical concepts and calculations essential to making modern business decisions. Topics include payroll, interest, consumer credit, home ownership, taxes, insurance, investment, discounts, and markups. (every semester)

MATH 112: Quantitative Reasoning

Credits 3

This course examines various aspects of quantitative literacy such as data representation and interpretation, relationships of numbers, variables and functions, unit analysis, spatial reasoning, uncertainty, probability, and coincidence. Integration of numeracy and literacy skills will be stressed. (every semester)

MATH 114: Mathematical Explorations

Credits 4

This course focuses on the conceptual understanding of basic mathematics topics through student exploration and investigation. Topics covered will include: the fundamental operation of arithmetic, number theory, functions, proportional reasoning, data analysis, geometry, measurement, and historical perspectives. Oral and written communication will be emphasized. (every semester)

MATH 120: Praxis Review

Credits 1

This intensive 13-hour review course is designed to familiarize the student with the structure and content of the Praxis I Core Math test. The Praxis I Math exam measures mathematical skills and concepts needed to prepare for a career in education. It focuses on key concepts of mathematics and the ability to reason in a quantitative context to determine aptitude before enrolling in a teacher education program or obtaining teacher licensing. The course includes detailed instruction and hands-on practice in math review.

(Pass/Fail)

MATH 122: Statistics I

Credits 3

This introductory course covers descriptive statistics and most of the fundamental concepts of inferential statistics. Topics include populations, random samples, measures of central tendency and variability, probability, binomial and normal distributions, standard scores, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, student’s “t,” Chi-squared, analysis of variance, linear regression, and correlation. (every semester)

MATH 160: College Algebra

Credits 4

This course aims to develop the idea of a function and its graph. Using linear functions, quadratic functions, general polynomials, rational functions, and logarithmic and exponential functions, the course will cover topics such as but not limited to domain and range, increasing and decreasing, concavity, intercepts and zeros, and maxima and minima. This course will model situations in natural and social sciences and business with appropriate functions. (every semester)

MATH 161: Precalculus

Credits 4

This course aims to help the student develop an appreciation for mathematics and provides a preparation for calculus. Topics include the real number system, basic concepts of algebra and analytic geometry, equations of the first and second degree and their graphs, algebraic, logarithmic, trigonometric and exponential functions and their applications. (every semester)

MATH 210: Applied Calculus

Credits 3

This course, designed for students who are not majoring in math, will introduce techniques of calculus. Students will use differentiation and integration in solving application problems such as optimization, related rates, and accumulation in the areas of science, economics, and other fields. (as needed)

MATH 231: Geometry I

Credits 3

This course deals with the historical evolution of geometric concepts and Euclidean geometries. This course will also introduce an axiomatic system; students will learn to read and write proofs using this system of axioms and postulates. Topics include inductive and deductive reasoning, symmetry, tessellations, congruence, similarity, and coordinate and transformational geometry. (spring)

MATH 241: Discrete Mathematics

Credits 3

An overview of ideas and strategies in discrete (non- continuous) mathematics, this course introduces enumeration techniques including factorials, and Pascal's triangle. Students will become familiar with abstraction in Mathematics via graph theory and will learn to use tools for mathematical reasoning in the discrete setting, including the pigeonhole principle and bijections. (fall)

MATH 250: Special Topics I

Credits 1 4

This course varies by semester and instructor. Topics may include using new or current technology; new or current software; and new and exciting innovations in mathematics, statistics, or mathematics education. This course may augment an already existing course. This course is intended to run for a group and not for a single student. (as needed)

MATH 262: Calculus I

Credits 4

The first of a three-semester sequence in Calculus, this course is designed to develop the basic concepts of differential Calculus and their applications. Topics include continuous and discontinuous functions; analytic geometry; slope of a curve; rate of change of functions; limit theorems; derivations of algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and implicitly defined functions; the mean value theorem; curve sketching; optimization problems; Newton’s Method, anti-derivatives (fall)

MATH 263: Calculus II

Credits 4

Continuing Calculus I, this course is designed to develop the concepts of integral Calculus and their applications. Topics include the integral, techniques of integration, applications of the definite integral to physical problems, integration involving inverse trigonometric and hyperbolic functions, infinite series, Power Series, Taylor polynomials and series, and parametric and polar equations. (spring)

MATH 323: Statistics II

Credits 3

This course introduces the concepts of Bayesian Analysis. Statistical decision-making under conditions of uncertainty is also covered. The chi- square and F-distributions are introduced. Additional topics include analysis of variance, linear correlation, linear regression, contingency tables, time series analysis involving seasonal and cyclic trends, index numbers, and cross-tabulations. (as needed)

MATH 324: Number Theory

Credits 3

This course deals with basic concepts of number theory and proof. Topics covered include mathematical induction, properties of integers, Diophantine equations, the division algorithm, Euclid’s algorithm, prime numbers, modular arithmetic, and congruences. (as needed)

MATH 332: History of Mathematics

Credits 3

This course is an examination of the development of mathematics. Themes include comparative mathematical systems; the origin of whole, rational, irrational, complex, and transfinite numbers; the evolution of geometry, number theory, algebra, calculus, probability theory; and modern innovations such as chaos theory. (spring)

MATH 333: Geometry II

Credits 3

This course will cover advanced topics in Euclidean Geometry and topics in non-Euclidean Geometry. The topics covered in geometries other than Euclidean geometry are such things as finite geometries, geometric transformations, convexity, projective geometry, topological transformations, and brief excursions into point set topology, knot theory, orientable and non-orientable surfaces, and fractal geometry. (as needed)

MATH 343: Matrix Theory and Linear Algebra

Credits 4

An introductory course in Linear Algebra, from computational, theoretical, and geometric perspectives. Topics include linear independence, matrix operations, determinants, bases, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. This course develops the idea of abstract vector spaces and linear transformations on these spaces, drawing examples from calculus. This course also provides the foundation for the further study of abstract structures in MATH 434 (Abstract Algebra). (spring)

MATH 350: Special Topics II

Credits 1 4

This course varies by semester and instructor. Topics may include using new or current technology; new or current software; and innovations in mathematics, statistics, or mathematics education. This course may also be used for subjects not yet offered such as topology, algebraic topology, dynamical systems, partial differential equations, applied statistics, applied calculus, and advanced linear algebra, among others. This course may augment an already existing course. (as needed)

MATH 364: Calculus III

Credits 4

This course completes the sequence of topics begun in MATH 262 and MATH 263: polar coordinates, parametric equations, elements of solid and analytical geometry, vectors, functions of several variables, partial differentiation, multiple integrals, line integrals including Green’s Theorem, Divergence and Curl. (fall)

MATH 365: Differential Equations

Credits 4

This is a course in ordinary differential equations with technical applications. Topics may include differential equations of the first order, approximation methods, linear differential equations, non-homogeneous equation, Laplacian transforms, systems of differential equations, power series methods, and partial differential equations. (spring)

MATH 423: Probability with Statistics

Credits 4

This course covers Probability from both discrete and continuous points of view, using techniques from elementary Combinations and Calculus. Topics include well-known probability distributions such as binomial, geometric, normal, and Poisson, and the expectation and variance of random variables with these distributions. The interplay between discrete and continuous is emphasized, particularly in the applications of the Central Limit Theorem and hypothesis testing. (fall).

MATH 434: Abstract Algebra

Credits 4

This course develops the introductory theory of groups, rings and fields from an axiomatic point of view. Topics include the fundamental concepts of set and group theory, rings, fields and integral domains. (as needed)

MATH 452: Internship in Mathematics

Credits 3

This course offers mathematics majors the opportunity to work in the field of mathematics for a minimum of 120 hours during the semester. Students must complete all paperwork to register for the Internship at least one semester before; students will meet with the Career Center and complete the application that will be sent to their advisor and site supervisor. This application will then be filed in the Career Center. Students must register for the class with the Registrar as well. They will be required to write a paper that is relevant to the Internship and maintain a journal that reflects their experience; the site supervisor will complete an evaluation form on their performance. This is a Pass/ Fail course. (as needed)

MATH 464: Introduction to Complex Analysis

Credits 4

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to complex variable theory and its applications, including an introduction to the techniques of complex analysis frequently used by scientists and engineers. Topics include complex numbers, analytic functions, Taylor and Laurent expansions, Cauchy’s theorem, evaluation of integrals by residues, Laplace transforms and Fourier series. (as needed)

MATH 466: Advanced Calculus I

Credits 3

This course examines topics in calculus from an advanced standpoint. It develops calculus topics from creation of the real numbers, functions, and their properties, to differentiation. Students will be required to write proofs and solve generalizations of problems as seen in calculus. (as needed)

MATH 467: Advanced Calculus II

Credits 3

This course examines topics in calculus from an advanced standpoint. It continues the topics that began in Advanced Calculus I from differentiation to integration and infinite series. Students will be required to write proofs and solve generalizations of problems as seen in calculus. (as needed)

MATH 490: Independent Study

Credits 4

With the approval of the instructor, a student may arrange to pursue a course of independent study in a specific area of Mathematics, Statistics, or Mathematics Education. The course will involve tutorial meetings with the instructor, independent reading and work, and an in-depth research project. The course is normally taken by seniors or juniors and may be taken in situations when a schedule conflict prevents a student from taking a regularly scheduled mathematics elective. (as needed)

MATH 491: Mathematics Project I

Credits 2

This is a research project designed to integrate the abstract concepts of mathematics with applications in business; the biological, physical, or social sciences; or education. The student pursues an individual research project under faculty supervision and submits written and oral reports at the close of the academic year. (as needed)

MATH 492: Mathematics Project II

Credits 2

Continuation of MATH-491. This is a research project designed to integrate the abstract concepts of mathematics with applications in business; the biological, physical, or social sciences; or education. The student pursues an individual research project under faculty supervision and submits written and oral reports at the close of the academic year. (as needed)

MATH 495: Senior Capstone in Mathematics

Credits 4

In this course, students will explore methods of solving mathematical problems. Students will focus on understanding their own problem-solving processes and on understanding how these processes develop in learners of mathematics. (spring)