2023-2024 BSC Catalog Updated_UG ONLY_FINAL[82]

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
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MA 455 Introduction to Topology (1)
An introduction to the topology of Euclidean space and surfaces. Topics include
continuity, compactness, cell complexes, and the classification of surfaces. Applications
include fixed-point theorems, the Jordan curve theorem, and map colorings.
Prerequisites: MA 310 and MA 335.
MA 458 Introduction to Complex Analysis (1)
Complex numbers, analytic functions, Cauchy-Riemann equations, curves and integrals,
Cauchy’s Theorem and applications, Taylor and Laurent series, analytic continuation,
Residue Theorem, harmonic functions, and conformal mappings. Prerequisites: MA 310
and MA 335.
MA 461 Real Analysis (1)
A rigorous treatment of sequences, limits, continuity, differentiation, infinite series,
sequences and series of functions, uniform convergence and its implications for function
series. Prerequisites: MA 310 and MA 335.
MA 470 Research Seminar in Mathematics (1)
A seminar in reading and presenting advanced mathematics in preparation for proposing
an independent research topic. Each student will read and present articles of interest to
the class, building both a mathematical foundation upon which a research proposal can be
written, and developing the skills for presenting quantitative work. Toward the end of the
term, each student will write, revise and defend a proposal for independent research. This
course should be taken by mathematics majors in the fall of their senior year.
Prerequisite: MA 335. Fall.
MA 472 EL Mathematical Problem Solving in Business, Industry and Government
II (1)
An independent research project in applied mathematics where students investigate a
problem supplied by a partner from business, industry, or government (BIG). Students
work closely with a supervising faculty member, provide periodic progress reports to
their BIG liaison, and present their results formally in writing and in a video. Students
must also present their research to the campus community for their senior conference
project, and possibly at a regional or national mathematics conference. An Experiential
Learning designated course. Prerequisite: MA 470.
MA 499 Senior Project in Mathematics (1)
An independent research project in mathematics where students investigate a topic
proposed in MA 470. Students work closely with a supervising faculty member, formally
write up their results, and present their research to the campus community for their senior
conference. Students may also be required to present their work at a regional mathematics
conference. Prerequisite: MA 470. Exploration term.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2023-2024