Apr 26, 2024  
2018-2019 Catalogue 
    
Catalog Navigation
  Catalogue Home
  The College of Wooster
  The Academic Program
  Areas of Study
  Course Descriptions
  Special Programs and Educational Opportunities
  Student Resources
  Degree Requirements
  Academic Policies
  Admissions, Expenses, and Financial Aid
  The Directories
  Academic Calendar
  Travel Directions
  Campus Map
  Four Year Calendar
HELP
2018-2019 Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

Course Numbering

The College of Wooster uses a five-digit course numbering system. The first three digits indicate the primary course number. The next two digits are the secondary course number and indicate whether there is a special focus for the course. For example:

The first letters are the department or program abbreviation. The next three digits are the primary course number (101 is the primary course number for all Introduction to Historial Study courses). The last two digits are the secondary course number. These two digits indicate that the special focus for this HIST 101 course is The History of Islam. A course with a given three-digit primary course number can only be taken once for credit unless specifically indicated otherwise by the department.

The following policy has been used in assigning primary course numbers:

  • 100-level courses are usually introductory courses; some 100-level courses do have prerequisites, and students are advised to consult the description for each course.
  • 200-level courses are usually beyond the introductory level, although many 200-level courses are open to first-year students and to majors and non-majors.
  • 300-level courses are seminars and courses primarily for majors but open to other students with the consent of the instructor.
  • The following numbers are for Independent Study: I.S. 40100 (Junior Independent Study), I.S. 45100 and I.S. 45200 (Senior Independent Study).

In addition to the regular course offerings, many departments offer individual tutorials under the number 40000 and internships under 41000. On occasion, departments will offer a course on a special topic as approved by the Educational Policy Committee, designated 19900, 29900, or 39900.

Abbreviation

In keeping with the general education requirements of the College’s curriculum
(see Degree Requirements ), course listings employ the following abbreviations:

W Writing Intensive 

C Studies in Cultural Difference

R Religious Perspectives

Q Quantitative Reasoning

AH Learning Across the Disciplines: Arts and Humanities

HSS Learning Across the Disciplines: History and Social Sciences 

MNS Learning Across the Disciplines: Mathematical and Natural Sciences

Except where otherwise noted, all courses carry one course credit.
 

Mathematics
  

  • MATH 10000 - Math in Contemporary Society

    Course Credit: 1
    Math in Contemporary Society This is a survey course that explores a broad spectrum of mathematical topics; examples include the search for good voting systems, the development of efficient routes for providing urban services, and the search for fair procedures to resolve conflict. The emphasis is on observing the many practical uses of mathematics in modern society and not on mastering advanced mathematical techniques. This course does not satisfy the prerequisites for further Mathematics courses, nor does it count toward a major or minor. Mathematics majors and minors may take the course only if they have permission of the chair. Fall and Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 10200 - Introduction to Statistics

    Course Credit: 1
    (NEUR)
    Introduction to Statistics This course covers an introduction to basic statistical methods and concepts - the basic elements of descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include exploratory data analysis, experimental design, sampling, inference for means and proportions, regression, and categorical data. This course does not satisfy the prerequisites for further Mathematics courses, nor does it count toward a major or minor. Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 10400 - Calculus for Social Science

    Course Credit: 1
    (BUEC, ECON)
    CALCULUS FOR SOCIAL SCIENCE This course is designed primarily for students in the social sciences. The course covers the basic concepts of single variable calculus and, to a lesser extent, multivariable differential calculus. This includes the topics of limits, differentiation, integration, and applications of these topics. The emphasis is on fundamental themes, computational skills, and problem solving, rather than on mathematical theory. This course does not count toward a major or minor. Credit cannot be given for both MATH 10400 and either 10800 or 11100. Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 10700 - Calculus With Algebra A

    Course Credit: 1
    (BIOL, CHEM, PHYS)
    CALCULUS WITH ALGEBRA A This course is the first in a two-course sequence that integrates precalculus and first-semester calculus topics. This course will examine the algebraic, geometric, and analytic properties of polynomial and rational functions. Limits, continuity, differentiation, and integration in connection with these functions will be studied, along with applications. This course does not count toward a major or minor and may not be taken by anyone with credit for MATH 10400 or 11100. Fall. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 10800 - Calculus With Algebra B

    Course Credit: 1
    (BUEC, CHEM, CSCI, ECON, PHYS)
    CALCULUS WITH ALGEBRA B This course is a continuation of MATH 10700 and will further cover topics in differential and integral calculus. It will examine algebraic, geometric, and analytic properties of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Limits, continuity, differentiation, and integration in connection with these functions will be studied, along with applications. This course counts toward a major or minor and may not be taken by anyone with credit for MATH 10400 or 11100, nor can a student receive credit for both this course and MATH 10400 or 11100. Prerequisite(s): MATH-10700, minimum grade C- Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 11100 - Calculus & Analytic Geom I

    Course Credit: 1
    (BIOL, BUEC, CHEM, CSCI, ECON, PHYS)
    CALCULUS AND ANALYTIC GEOMETRY I This course and MATH 11200 cover the calculus of functions of one variable. Topics include limits, continuity, differentiation and integration, applications of the calculus, elements of analytic geometry, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Fall and Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 11200 - Calculus & Analytic Geom II

    Course Credit: 1
    (CHEM, PHYS)
    CALCULUS AND ANALYTIC GEOMETRY II This course is a continuation of MATH 11100. Topics include calculus of transcendental functions, integration techniques, infinite series, polar and parametric representations and/or first-order differential equations. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11100, minimum grade C-, or MATH-10800, minimum grade C- Fall and Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 21100 - Linear Algebra

    Course Credit: 1
    (CSCI)
    LINEAR ALGEBRA This course covers systems of linear equations, matrix theory, vector spaces and linear transformations, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and inner product spaces. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200, minimum grade C- Fall and Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 21200 - Multivariate Calculus

    Course Credit: 1
    (PHYS)
    MULTIVARIATE CALCULUS This course covers analytic geometry of functions of several variables, limits and partial derivatives, multiple and iterated integrals, non-rectangular coordinates, change of variables, line and surface integrals and the theorems of Green and Stokes. Prerequisite: MATH 11200 with a C- or better, or AP/equivalent credit. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200, minimum grade C- Fall and Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 21500 - Transition to Advanced Mathematics

    Course Credit: 1
    TRANSITION TO ADVANCED MATHEMATICS This is a transition course from the primarily computational and algorithmic mathematics found in calculus to the more theoretical and abstract mathematics in the 300-level mathematics courses. The emphasis is on developing the skills and tools needed to read and write proofs, and to understand their importance in mathematics. The course examines topics such as set theory and logic, mathematical induction, and a number of other proof techniques. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200, minimum grade C-, or MATH-21100, minimum grade C- Fall and Spring. [MNS, W]
  

  • MATH 22100 - Differential Equations

    Course Credit: 1
    DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS This course covers the classification of equations, forms of solution (algebraic, numeric, qualitative, geometric), solution and application of first-order and constant-coefficient second-order equations, systems of linear differential equations, phase plane analysis, applications to modeling, and computational methods (including the use of appropriate software). Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200 Fall. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 22300 - Combinatorics & Graph Theory

    Course Credit: 1
    (CSCI)
    COMBINATORICS AND GRAPH THEORY This course introduces the basic techniques and modes of reasoning of combinatorial problem-solving in the same spirit that calculus introduces continuous problem-solving. It will include fundamental topics in graph theory, counting, the inclusion/exclusion principle, recurrence relations, and generating functions. Prerequisite: MATH 12300 or 21100. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100 Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 22500 - Mathematical Modeling

    Course Credit: 1
    MATHEMATICAL MODELING This course considers a variety of mathematical models in the physical, life, and social sciences. In addition to analyzing models, a major component of the course is using computational tools to construct mathematical models and test their validity against empirical data. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200 and CSCI-10000; or permission of the instructor Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 22700 - Operations Research

    Course Credit: 1
    OPERATIONS RESEARCH This course begins with an introduction to the general methodology of operations research supported by examples and a brief history. A fairly extensive coverage of the theory and applications of linear programming leads to both discrete and continuous models used in economics and the management sciences. Among those models are nonlinear programming, continuous and discrete probability models, dynamic programming, and transportation and network flow models. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100; MATH-21200 (May be taken concurrently with MATH-22700); or permission of instructor Fall. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 22900 - Probability and Statistics I

    Course Credit: 1
    PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS I This course is an introduction to probability and statistics. Topics include permutations and combinations, sample spaces, probability, random variables, discrete probability distributions, continuous probability distributions, multivariate distributions, transformations of random variables, and moment generating function techniques. Prerequisite(s): MATH-11200 Spring. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 27900 - Problem Seminar

    Course Credit: 0.25
    PROBLEM SEMINAR This course is a seminar in problem solving. In the Fall semester, the seminar focuses on analysis and solution of advanced contest-type problems, concluding with the taking of the Putnam Examination. In the Spring semester, the seminar may include the International Mathematical Contest in Modeling, in addition to introduction to problem solving. Fall and Spring.
  

  • MATH 29901 - Applied Statistical Methods

    Course Credit: 1
    APPLIED STATISTICAL METHODS This is a second course in statistics. The focus is the application of statistical methods to practical problems involving real data from many disciplines. Topics to be covered include regression analysis, experimental design, analysis of variance, and logistic regression. In addition, students will learn to use a statistical software package. Prerequisite(s): A first course in statistics (e.g., AP-MATH102, MATH-10200, MATH-22500, MATH-22900, MATH-32900, or ECON-11000); or permission of the instructor Fall. [MNS, W]
  

  • MATH 32700 - Numerical Analysis

    Course Credit: 1
    NUMERICAL ANALYSIS This course covers error analysis, interpolation theory, solution of nonlinear equations and systems of linear and nonlinear equations, numerical differentiation and integration, and solution of ordinary differential equations. While theoretical results are discussed, there is also an emphasis on implementing algorithms and analyzing computed results. Prerequisite(s): CSCI-11000, MATH-11200, and MATH-21100; or permission of instructor. Spring.
  

  • MATH 32900 - Probability and Statistics II

    Course Credit: 1
    PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS II This course is a continuation of MATH 22900. Topics include random vectors and random sampling, estimation and hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, regression, and nonparametric statistics. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100 and MATH-22900 Fall. [MNS, Q]
  

  • MATH 33000 - Introduction to Topology

    Course Credit: 1
    INTRODUCTION TO TOPOLOGY This course covers sets and functions, metric spaces, topological spaces, compactness, separation, and connectedness. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100, MATH-21200, and MATH-21500; or permission of instructor.
  

  • MATH 33200 - Real Analysis I

    Course Credit: 1
    REAL ANALYSIS I This course develops the theoretical background for many calculus concepts. The course focuses on the properties of the real numbers, sequences, convergence, and the Bolzano-Weierstrass Theorem. The course finishes with a study of functions defined on the real numbers, limits, continuity, uniform continuity, and differentiation. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100 and MATH-21500; or permission of instructor Spring.
  

  • MATH 33300 - Real Analysis II

    Course Credit: 1
    REAL ANALYSIS II This course is a continuation of MATH 33200, covering uniform convergence and further topics in differentiation and integration. Some discussion of metric spaces, introductory measure theory, and the Lebesgue integral will be included. Prerequisite(s): MATH-33200
  

  • MATH 33400 - Abstract Algebra

    Course Credit: 1
    ABSTRACT ALGEBRA I This course is an introduction to abstract algebraic structures. This course includes an axiomatic approach to familiar number systems, equivalence, congruence, groups, subgroups, symmetric groups, Lagrange’s Theorem, factor groups, homomorphism, isomorphism, and rings. Emphasis is on understanding and writing mathematical proofs. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100 and MATH-21500; or permission of instructor Fall.
  

  • MATH 33500 - Abstract Algebra II

    Course Credit: 1
    ABSTRACT ALGEBRA II This course is a continuation of MATH 33400. Topics include groups, subgroups, symmetric groups, congruence, Lagrange’s Theorem, and further topics in groups, rings and/or field theory.
  

  • MATH 33600 - Functions of a Complex Variable

    Course Credit: 1
    FUNCTIONS OF A COMPLEX VARIABLE This course covers complex numbers, elementary functions, Cauchy’s ¬theorem and formula, infinite series, elements of conformal mapping, and residues. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100, MATH-21200, and MATH-21500; or permission of the instructor.
  

  • MATH 39900 - Special Topics

    Course Credit: 1
    SPECIAL TOPICS The content and prerequisites of this course will vary according to the needs of students. It will be given at irregular intervals when there is need for some special topic.
  

  • MATH 40000 - Tutorial

    Course Credit: 1
    TUTORIAL This course will be given for topics not normally covered in regular courses. Prerequisite: The approval of both the supervising faculty member and the chairperson are required prior to registration. May be repeated.
  

  • MATH 41000 - Math Internships

    Course Credit: 0.25
    Maximum Credit: 1
    INTERNSHIP A structured, usually off-campus experience, in which a student extends classroom knowledge to a work position within a community, business, or governmental organization. Student interns work and learn under the joint guidance of a host organization supervisor and a College of Wooster mentor. The student must arrange the internship in advance through the appropriate department or program. No more than six internships, and a maximum of four Wooster course credits, will count toward graduation. The form for registering for an internship and the Internship Learning Plan are available in the office of the Registrar. May be repeated.
  

  • MATH 45100 - Independent Study Thesis

    Course Credit: 1
    SENIOR INDEPENDENT STUDY–SEMESTER ONE Senior Independent Study is a two-semester project culminating in the I.S. Thesis and an oral presentation. In the first semester, the student will produce a project abstract, an annotated bibliography, and a substantial written portion of the thesis. The semester concludes with a short oral presentation on the project and progress in the first semester. Prerequisite(s): MATH-21100, minimum grade C-; MATH-21200, minimum grade C-; MATH-21500, minimum grade C-; and 1 additional MATH course above the 21500 level Annually. Fall and Spring.
  

  • MATH 45200 - Independent Study Thesis

    Course Credit: 1
    Senior Independent Study–Semester Two The second semester of the Senior Independent Study project which culminates in the thesis, poster, and an oral presentation and examination. Prerequisite(s): MATH-45200 Annually. Fall and Spring.