Math 360

Abstract Algebra I, Fall 12
Class Number: 15674

Location: CR 5119
TR 11:00AM-12:15PM

Dr. B. Al Sethuraman
( http://www.csun.edu/~asethura )


Office Information
Office: Room 126, Santa Susana Hall (red brick building by the bookstore).
Office Hours: Tuesday and Thursday 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM, and by appointment
Telephone: 818-677-2701.
Fax: (818)-677-3634.
        
Email: al.sethuraman@csun.edu

Text: Rings, Fields, Vector Spaces, and Groups, by B.A. Sethuraman, available for copying cost at the bookstore.

Syllabus: The course will provide an overview of the basic objects of abstract algebra: rings, fields, vector spaces, and groups.  We will see the definitions of these objects, and lots and lots of examples.  We will learn what the signification sub-objects of these objects are, and we will learn about quotient objects.  We will learn about homomorphisms and isomorphisms and the fundamental homomorphism theorems for each of these objects.

Exams: There will be two midterm exams, and a final exam. The dates for the midterm exams will be announced at least one week in advance. The final is on Tuesday Dec 11th from 10:15 AM to 12:15 PM.

Homework: Homework will be assigned as we go along.  I follow the following scheme in high enrollment classes: You will be divided into groups of four, and you are to work together and to submit your work as a group.  Each member of the group should write the solutions to at least one of the assigned problems.  You will review each other's solutions before turning them in.  After every two assignments (occassionally even after every one) I will reassign the groups. (If your class is not a high enrollment class, I will let you know at the beginning of the semester!)

Background Material: The material from Math 320 (sets, functions, relations, equivalence classes, one-to-one and onto mappings, basic counting principles, divisibility in the integers, etc.) is assumed for this course,  you are expected to be totally up to speed on this material in the very first week of Math 360.  So, you should immediately refresh yourself on this material.  

Grading: The course grade will computed based on the following percentages: Each of the two midterms will be worth 25%, your homework will be worth 20%, and the final will be worth 30%.   

Makeup Exams: Make up exams will only be given for dire situations, for which you have either received permission from me in advance, or, if it is an emergency, if you are supported by thorough documentation. Please be aware that even if one student has to take a make up exam, then my workload is doubled and my schedule is completely thrown off, so please request make ups only for serious situations.

Good Luck!  Abstract algebra is a beautiful subject and I hope that you will enjoy the course!