Courses
MATH 101 Introduction to Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences (3 sem. hrs.)
Basic concepts in mathematics with applications in
business and social sciences. Topics include linear
systems, quadratics, sequences, exponential and
logarithmic functions. Applications include compound
interest, annuities, and linear programming. This course
is not intended for students majoring in Science and may
not be used for credit towards a major, concentration, or
minor in Mathematics. It may, however, be required of
some Science majors who are not ready for MATH 105.
NB: Most Business majors take MATH 101 prior to
taking MATH 120 unless their high school credentials
are excellent or the results of a pre-test indicate they
may go directly to MATH 120. Science majors take a
screening test during registration, and depending on the
results, enrol in MATH 101, MATH 105, or directly in
MATH 123. Students intending a Mathematics major
whose screening test results indicate they should take
MATH 101 or 105 before MATH 123 should be advised
that they are unlikely to finish the program in four years.
Moreover, Mathematics courses numbered below 120
cannot be counted as part of the major; they must be
counted as electives.
Prerequisite(s): At least a C in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 11 or equivalent. (4-0 or 4-0)
MATH 102 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (3 sem. hrs.)
Sets, permutations and combinations, probability,
introduction to statistics. Not for credit towards a
major, concentration, or minor in Mathematics.
NB: Credit may be received for only one of MATH 102
or MATH 108.
Prerequisite(s): At least a C in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 11 or equivalent. (0-0; 3-0)
MATH 105 Pre-Calculus Mathematics (3 sem. hrs.)
An introduction to the tools essential for the study
of calculus. Topics include algebra, trigonometry,
exponents, logarithms, functions, graphs, conics,
and plane analytic geometry. This course is taken by
Science majors whose screening test during registration
indicates they are not ready to take MATH 123, but
have reasonable mastery of MATH 101.
Prerequisite(s): At least a B in MATH 101 or B.C.
Principles of Mathematics 11 or equivalent. (4-0 or 4-0)
This course is an introduction to applied statistics
addressed, in particular, to students specializing in
the field of nursing. The focus is on developing the
conceptual aspects of the subject rather than the
mathematical foundations and assumes no prerequisite
except elementary algebra. Topics include descriptive
statistics, probability, the normal, t-, chi-square and F-
distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing,
correlation and regression. Applications are directed
towards health and biological studies.
NB: Credit may be received for only one of MATH 102
or MATH 108.
Prerequisite(s): At least a C in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 11 or equivalent. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 120 Calculus for Social Sciences (3 sem. hrs.)
An introduction to the basic elements of calculus and
its application to problems encountered particularly
in economics and the social sciences. Topics include
limits, derivatives and their applications, integration
and its applications.
NB: Credit will be granted for only one of MATH 120
and MATH 123.
Prerequisite(s): At least a B in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 12 or equivalent, or MATH 101.
(4-0 or 4-0)
MATH 123 Calculus I (3 sem. hrs.)
Functions, limits and continuity, derivatives and
applications, integrals and applications.
NB: Credit will be granted for only one of MATH 120
and MATH 123.
Prerequisite(s): At least a B in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 12 or equivalent, or MATH 105.
(4-0; 0-0)
MATH 124 Calculus II (3 sem. hrs.)
Transcendental functions, integration techniques, polar
co-ordinates, sequences, series, and Taylor series.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 123 or an A in MATH 120 and
the instructor’s permission. (0-0; 4-0)
MATH 150 Introduction to Discrete Math (3 sem. hrs.)
This course introduces students to those branches of
pure mathematics which are most commonly used in
the study of Computing Science and/or have other
practical applications. Topics include logic, proofs,
switching circuits, set theory, induction, functions,
languages, finite automata, combinatories, and algebraic
structures. This course may be taken by non-majors for
non-lab science credit.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: CMPT 150.
Prerequisite(s): B.C. high school Mathematics 12, or
MATH 101, or the equivalent. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 190 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers (3 sem. hrs.)
Mathematical concepts and topics that undergird
the school mathematics curriculum. The principles and
applications of number systems, sets, equations, linear
programming, geometry, and mathematical
proof within a historical and societal context. It may
not be used to meet a mathematics requirement in any
other program.
NB: Credit is granted for only one of MATH 101, 102,
108, or 190. Open to declared Elementary Education
majors only. Education students may meet their
requirement for a Mathematics course by substituting
another course for MATH 190. Students planning
to transfer to University of Victoria (and some other
universities) for their professional year are required to
take two Mathematics courses rather than one.
Prerequisite(s): At least a C in B.C. Principles of
Mathematics 11 or equivalent. (4-0 or 4-0)
MATH 220 Analysis (3 sem. hrs.)
Sequences and induction; convergence of sequences and
series; limits, continuity, and differentiability; Riemann
integrals; sequences of functions.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 124. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 223 Calculus III (3 sem. hrs.)
Multivariate calculus. Topics include vectors, vector
functions and derivatives; curves; partial and directional
derivatives; Lagrange multipliers; double and triple
integrals; spherical and cylindrical co-ordinates; vector
integrals, Green’s Theorem, surface integrals.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 124, 150. (3-0; 0-0)
MATH 250 Linear Algebra (3 sem. hrs.)
Systems of linear equations, matrices, determinants,
vector spaces, linear transformations, eigenvalues
and eigenvectors, diagonalization applications,
linear programming.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 123. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 310 Probability and Statistics (3 sem. hrs.)
A study of the fundamental principles of mathematical
statistics. Probability distributions and densities,
expectation and moment-generating functions, functions
of random variable, sampling distributions, estimation,
hypothesis testing, regression and correlation, analysis of
variance, nonparametric tests.
NB: May be taken concurrently with MATH 223. Not
offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 223. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 320 Complex Analysis (3 sem. hrs.)
Functions of a complex variable; differentiation;
analytic and elementary functions; Cauchy’s theorem
and contour integration; Taylor and Laurent series,
residues and poles; conformal mapping. Emphasis is
placed on physical applications.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 223. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 321 Differential Equations I (3 sem. hrs.)
First order differential equations, linear differential
equations, Laplace transforms, systems of differential
equations, non-linear systems, series solutions,
applications.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 223, 250. (3-0; 0-0)
MATH 322 Mathematical Methods of Physics (3 sem. hrs.)
A study of more advanced methods for solving differential
equations. Special emphasis is placed on applications in
physics. Topics covered include linear systems, non-linear
systems, phase planes and stability, partial differential
equations, Fourier series, Bessel and Legendre series,
Sturm-Liouville problems, and orthogonal series.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: PHYS 322.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 321. (0-0; 3-0)
MATH 330 Numerical Analysis (3 sem. hrs.)
Numerical techniques for solving problems in applied
mathematics. Error analysis, roots of equations,
interpolation, numerical differentiation and integration,
ordinary differential equations, matrix methods.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: CMPT 330.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 223, 250; CMPT 141 or
equivalent. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 340 Computing with Discrete Structures (3 sem. hrs.)
This course continues CMPT 150 and MATH 150. It
also includes models of computation, formal languages
and algorithms.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: CMPT 340.
Prerequisite(s): CMPT 150 or MATH 150. (0-0; 3-0)
MATH 350 Operations Research (3 sem. hrs.)
Linear programming, duality, network analysis, queuing
theory, inventory theory, dynamic programming, non-
linear programming.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: CMPT 350.
Prerequisite(s): Knowledge of a programming language,
MATH 223 and 250. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 370 Geometry (3 sem. hrs.)
Finite geometries, transformations, Euclidean geometry,
constructions, inverse geometry, projective geometry,
non-Euclidean geometry, introduction to topology.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 223, 250. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 380 Modern Algebra (3 sem. hrs.)
Linear algebra and matrix theory; abstract algebra
including group, field, and ring theory; algebraic
systems, polynomial theory; an introduction to
number theory.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 150, 250. (0-0; 3-0)
MATH 400 Directed Studies in Mathematics (3 sem. hrs.)
Students are required to produce an outline of the topic
to be studied in consultation with the instructor. A
course of reading and/or research is pursued according to
the approved outline. Assessment may be via examination
and/or a final written report.
NB: This course with the appropriate choice of topics
can be used as a preparation for the senior thesis
(MATH 410).
Prerequisite(s): Advanced standing in Mathematics or
instructor’s consent.
MATH 409 Thesis Preparation (1 sem. hr.)
Students are required to choose a topic for their senior
thesis (MATH 410) in consultation with an instructor.
Selected readings and references pertinent to the topic are
assigned. A final written report is presented consisting of
a detailed thesis proposal and a review of the literature.
Prerequisite(s): Advanced standing in Mathematics or
instructor’s consent.
MATH 410 Senior Thesis (2 sem. hrs.)
Research in a chosen area of mathematics with a final
written report.
NB: Normally 2 sem. hrs. are assigned unless
arrangements are made with the Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 409, a related directed study in
preparation, or instructor’s consent.
MATH 411 Senior Thesis (3 sem. hrs.)
Research in a chosen area of mathematics with a final
written report.
NB: Normally 2 sem. hrs. are assigned unless
arrangements have been made with the Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 409, a related directed study in
preparation, or instructor’s consent.
MATH 420 Topics in Applied Mathematics (3 sem. hrs.)
Possible topics could include mathematical models of
social and natural phenomena, linear programming,
applied mathematics in physics and astronomy, etc.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Entry restricted to third and fourth year students who
meet the prerequisites for the topic to be offered.
(3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 430 Numerical Analysis II (3 sem. hrs.)
Numerical solution of systems of equations,
eigenvalues, approximation theory, non-linear systems,
boundary-value problems, numerical solution of partial
differential equations.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Cross-listed: CMPT 430.
Prerequisite(s): CMPT/MATH 330. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 440 The Theory of Numbers (3 sem. hrs.)
A study of the ideas of classical number theory
from the early Greek mathematicians through the
European contributions of the 17th century to
modern times. Topics include divisibility and primes,
modular arithmetic, primality tests, primitive roots,
quadratic reciprocity, Diophantine equations,
continued fractions.
NB: Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): Third year standing and one or more
of MATH 340, 370, or 380, or a course in abstract
algebra or analysis at the third year level from another
university, or instructor’s consent. (3-0 or 3-0)
MATH 480 Foundations of Mathematical Sciences (3 sem. hrs.)
A study of basic issues in the history and philosophy
of mathematics and physics. Topics include logic,
infinity, Godel’s theorems, time, space, determinism,
the nature of mathematical and scientific truth, the
ontological status of theoretical entities, implications of
relativity, quantum mechanics, and modern cosmology.
Particular attention is paid to philosophical/theological
presuppositions, implications, and applications in the
mathematical sciences.
NB: This course meets the University’s upper level
IDIS core requirement. In combination with NATS
490, it meets the Faculty of Natural and Applied
Sciences’ Interdisciplinary Studies core requirement.
Not offered every year. See Department chair.
Prerequisite(s): Third year standing, including 9 sem.
hrs. in Mathematics, Physics, or Philosophy.
(3-0 or 3-0)
