The University of Massachusetts Boston

Department of Mathematics

MA360 Abstract Algebra, FALL 2004

Instructor: Prof. Alfred Noël

Office : 3-175 Science Building

Phone : (617)-287-6458

Email : anoel@math.umb.edu

Url : http://www.math.umb.edu/~anoel

Class hours : Tuesday, Thursday 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM, M/1/-208

Office hours: Tuesday, Thursday 2:25 PM – 3:55 PM

Text : A first Course in Abstract Algebra by John B. Fraleigh Seven edition Pbl. Addison Wesley

Course Info: This is an introductory course in Abstract Algebra, one of the most fundamental tools in Mathematics and Science. The students are expected to be mathematically mature enough to start dealing with mathematical proofs and other abstract concepts. The goal of this course is to give to students a set of mathematical tools that they will need in order to pursue advanced studies in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering in particular and Science in general. Students who are concerned about their mathematical background should speak to me as soon as possible for advising. Students who have taken Calculus I, II and Linear Algebra should, in principle, be able to take this course. However, regardless of your background you will find the course to be very challenging. Consequently, you should not collaborate on homework and you should participate in class discussions. Also I strongly advise students to form discussions groups which meet outside of the class-room.

Material to be covered: We hope to cover sections 0 to 19. The bulk of the course consists of Group theory. The last two sections introduce the structure theory of Rings and Fields. If there is enough enthusiasm we may consider offering a second course in Spring 2005. Students majoring in Mathematics, Physics and Engineering should seriously consider taking a second course in Abstract Algebra.

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There will be 5 homework assignments a midterm exam and a final exam:

Midterm: (1 hour: 15min exam) Tuesday October 28, 2004

Grading Procedures: Homework à 50%, Midterm à 20%, Final à 30%

THERE WILL BE NO MAKEUP EXAMS.

STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR MATERIAL COVERED IN CLASS.