This is NOT a programming course and no previous experience with computers is required. Students first study the proofs of some basic results to get a feel for the kinds of ideas and arguments which lead to interesting conclusions, and then start asking their own questions and trying to come up with some answers. The grade is based on homework and an extended project. The formal prerequisites for this class are few, and students at all stages have enjoyed taking it. The main qualification is an interest in mathematics.
Topics vary from semester to semester.
The Fall 99 topic is Dynamical Systems and the Spring 2000 topic may be Measure Theory and Probability. Required for the Honors program and highly recommended for those thinking of graduate school. The Honors Program is open to junior and senior mathematics majors who have completed at least two upper-division MAT courses with grades of B or higher and who have maintained a 3.0 overall grade point average. The program consists of a set of six MAT courses, at least three of which are not used to fulfil the major requirements, and should include MAT 316, MAT 322, MAT 401, MAT 311 or 313, and MAT 495 Honors Thesis. Students interested in this program should consult with a faculty advisor before the beginning of their senior year.