Course Descriptions

Mathematics Course Descriptions

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(Enter Datatel Course Numbers with the dash. i.e. ENGL-100; use commas to separate multiple Course Numbers)

ALGB-081 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 1  1 credit
Topics include the real number system, operations with real numbers, simplification of algebraic expressions, solving equalities and inequalities, applications and problem solving. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements at STCC. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ARTH-073, ARTH-078, or placement of ALGB-081
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-082 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 1  1 credit
Topics include graphing linear equations, slopes, equations of lines, and graphing inequalities in two variables. Additional topics are systems of linear equations, applications and problem solving. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements at STCC. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ARTH-073, ARTH-078, or placement of ALGB-081
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-083 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 1  1 credit
Topics include integer exponents and scientific notation, introduction to polynomials and operations with polynomials. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-082
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-084 - ALGEBRA 1 ELEMENTAL BILINGÜE  3 credits
Mismo contenido que el curso ALGB-081, ALGB-082, ALGB-083. Repaso de Aritmética, integrales, y simplificación de expresiones algebraicas. Resolviendo ecuaciones lineales y desigualdades. Exponentes y notación científica, polinomios, operaciones con polinomios y factorización de trinomios. Expresiones racionales y resolver expresiones racionales. Requisito previo: ARTH-074 o colocación en ALGB-081. Este es en curso de desarrollo. Los creditos de este curso no contaran hacia el cumplimiento de los requisitos de graduacion de STCC.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-087 - LECTURE ALGEBRA 1  3 credits
Topics include the real number system, operations of real numbers, simplification of algebraic expressions, solving equations and inequalities. Topics also include graphing of linear equations, slopes, equations of lines, and graphing inequalities in two variables, systems of linear equations, applications and problem solving. Additional topics are exponents, scientific notation, and operations with polynomials. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITES: ARTH-073, ARTH-078 or math placement of ALGB-081.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-091 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 2  1 credit
Topics include factoring polynomials, solving quadratic equations by factoring, with applications and problem solving. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-083, ALGB-087, or placement of ALGB-091
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-092 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 2  1 credit
Topics include operations with rational expressions, solving rational equations, applications and problem solving, and simplifying complex rational expressions. This is a developmental course Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-091
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-093 - INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA 2  1 credit
Topics include radical expressions and equations and applications. Additional topics are the quadratic formula, graphs of quadratic equations, and functions. This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduations requirements. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-092
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-094 - ALGEBRA 2 ELEMENTAL BILINGÜE  3 credits
Mismo contenido que el curso ALGB-091, ALGB-092, ALGB-093. Gráfica de ecuaciones lineales y desigualdades de una y dos variables, inclinación, ecuaciones lineal y sistemas de ecuaciones lineales. Raices, radicales, ecuaciones cuadráticas y sus aplicaciones, y parábolas. Repaso del material de ALGB-084. El cumplimiento de este curso indica que el estudiante está preparado para pasar a pre-cálculo (matemáticas a nivel universitario). Requisito previo: ALGB-084 o colocación en ALGB-09l.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-097 - LECTURE ALGEBRA 2  3 credits
Topics include factoring polynomials, solving quadratic equations, applications and problem solving, and simplifying complex rational expressions. Additional topics are radical expressions, radical equations and applications, the quadratic formula, graphs of quadratic equations, and functions. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITES: ALGB-083, ALGB-087 or math placement of ALGB-091.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ALGB-099 - ELEMENTS OF MATHEMATICS  3 credits
This is a unique course with a format that allows the student to progress at his or her own pace. New students are assigned a beginning math level and textbook based on their placement test results. Returning students pick up wherever they ended the previous semester. Students may study on their own, with instructors and tutors available to answer questions on an individual basis. Each student is assigned an instructor and a particular class time, and may use the Testing Center and Tutor Center Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Students take tests whenever they feel ready and the test center is open. Tests are computer generated, and corrected and graded immediately for the students. Students are then given a copy of the original test and a copy of the correct answers to take with them.

This is a non-punitive grading system, with no failing grades. Single credit grades are issued for completed credits only. It is possible to earn three or more credits or less than three credits in one semester. These credits are below college level, do not carry graduation credit, and are non-transferable.

Developmental/Remedial Credits
Basic
Arithmetic		 Introductory
Algebra 1		 Introductory
Algebra 2
ARTH-071 ALGB-081 ALGB-091
ARTH-072 ALGB-082 ALGB-092
ARTH-073 ALGB-083 ALGB-093

This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ARTH-071 - PRE-ALGEBRA  1 credit
Topics include whole numbers and the place value system, operations of whole numbers and order of operations. Additional topics include fractions and mixed numerals, operations with these numbers, and applications. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: None
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ARTH-072 - PRE-ALGEBRA  1 credit
Topics include decimal notation, percent notation, and conversions between decimal, fractional, and percent notation. Ratio and proportion, applications, and problem solving are also included. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ARTH-071 or equivalent
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ARTH-073 - PRE-ALGEBRA  1 credit
Topics include basic statistical measures, units of linear measurement -- American and metric systems, and geometric formulas and applications. Also included is an introduction to Algebra, including the real number system and operations of integers. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: ARTH-072 or equivalent.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ARTH-074 - PRE-ALGEBRA BILINGÜE  3 credits
Mismo contenido que el curso ARTH-071, ARTH-072, and ARTH-073. El concepto de los números enteros y del valor notacional. Suma, resta, multiplicación y división de numeros enteros. Exponentes, raíces cuadradas perfectas, números primarios y compuestos y factorización prima. Fracciones y decimales. Suma, resta, multiplicación y división de amobs fracciones y decimales. Cambiar por cientos a fracciones y fracciones a por cientos. Introducción a radicales. Perímetros y áreas de rectángulos y círculos. Introduction a Algebra. Requisito previo: ninguno. Este es en curso de desarrollo. Los creditos de este curso no contaran hacia el cumplimiento de los requisitos de graduacion de STCC.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
ARTH-078 - LECTURE PRE-ALGEBRA  3 credits
Topics include whole numbers and the place value system, operations of whole numbers and order of operations, fractions and mixed numerals, operations with these numbers, and applications. Additional topics include decimal notation, percent notation, and conversions between decimal, fractional, and percent notation, ratio and proportion, applications, and problem solving, basic statistical measures, units of linear measurement, American and metric systems, and geometric formulas and applications. Also included is an introduction to Algebra, including the real number system and operations of integers. A grade of C- or better is required. PREREQUISITE: None.
This is a developmental course. Credit for this course will not be counted toward fulfilling graduation requirements at STCC.
MATH-117 - CONTEMPORARY MATHEMATICAL APPLICATIONS  3 credits
This is designed to be an applications course for certain technologies. The emphasis is on solving real-world problems pertaining to those technologies by applying arithmetic, algebraic, and geometric concepts previously learned. Utilizing the TI-30X scientific calculator to solve problems involving SI metrics, unit analyses, formulas, and mensuration will also be covered. This course is restricted to Landscape, Construction Management, Graphic Arts, and Energy Systems students ONLY. It is not recommended for students planning to transfer to a four-year institution. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-087 with a C- or better or placement of ALGB-091 or higher.
MATH-122 - APPLIED MATHEMATICS 1  3 credits
Topics include a review of algebra; linear equations and inequalities, matrices, systems of equations; linear programming; and probability. PREREQUISITES: ALGB-093, ALGB-097 or math placement of MATH-101.
MATH-124 - MATHEMATICS FOR A TECHNICAL SOCIETY  3 credits
This course is designed primarily for General Studies and Liberal Arts Transfer students. It is intended to provide a background in the contemporary applications of mathematics to a wide variety of problems. There is an attempt to bring the excitement of contemporary mathematical thinking to the non-specialist, to develop the capacity to engage in logical thinking and to read critically the technical information, which is abundant in contemporary society. Students will use mathematical models to solve problems in three broad areas: Management Science, Statistics: The Science of Data, and Social Choice and Decision-Making PREREQUISITES: ALGB-093, ALGB-097 or math placement of MATH-101.
MATH-126 - EXPL. FOUNDATIONS/MATHEMATICAL REASONING  3 credits
The goal of this course is to give students the content base and problem-solving skills necessary to teach elementary school mathematics, as defined by the Massachusetts State Frameworks and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Explorations of mathematical reasoning and problem solving. Topics will cover two of the strands from the Massachusetts State Frameworks: 1) number systems; and 2) patterns, functions, and algebra. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-097. Restricted to EDUC.AA majors.
MATH-127 - MATHEMATICAL EXPLORATIONS  3 credits
The goal of this course is to give students the content base and problem solving skills necessary to teach elementary school mathematics as defined by the Massachusetts State Frameworks and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Topics include: analyzing data, using probability principles, construction of histograms, combinatorics, development of the concept of measurement and Euclidean properties in 2 and 3 space, and elementary trigonometry. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of ALGB-097 with a C- or better or placement into college level mathematics. Restricted to EDUC.AA majors.
MATH-132 - TECHNICAL MATHEMATICS 1  4 credits
First of a two-part sequence for technology students in a math-related field. Topics include ratio, proportion, variation, fractions, fractional equations, functions and graphs, right triangle trigonometry, vectors, solution of linear equations, determinants, factoring, algebraic functions, laws of sines and cosines, graphs of trigonometric functions and complex numbers. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-093, ALGB-097 or math placement of MATH-101.
MATH-145 - PRECALCULUS MATHEMATICS  4 credits
An intensive one-semester integrated review of the algebraic and trigonometric concepts necessary for calculus using a functional approach. Algebraic topics include linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, and inverse functions. Transcendental topics include trigonometric, inverse trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Graphing is emphasized as an aid to the visualization of the various functions. Conic sections are introduced. PREREQUISITE: MATH-132, MATH-103, or math placement of MATH-105.
MATH-155 - CALCULUS 1  4 credits
Topics include straight line, conic sections, inequalities, functions and graphs, including trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions; limits and continuity; differentiation of algebraic and transcendental functions; maxima/minima theory; related rates; differentials. Computer based labs are an integral part of the course. PREREQUISITE: MATH-145 (preferred), MATH-232, math placement of MATH-155, or permission of instructor.
MATH-157 - CALCULUS FOR BUSINESS, LIFE, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 1  3 credits
Introduction to calculus with applications to business, life, and social sciences. Functions and graphs, limits, the derivative, techniques of differentiation, curve sketching, maximum/minimum problems, exponential and logarithmic functions, exponential growth and decay. PREREQUISITES: ALGB-097, ALGB-093 or placement at MATH-101 or higher.
MATH-170 - PROGRAMMING IN MATHEMATICA  1 credit
This is a one credit lab course in programming with Mathematica software offered during intersession in January. The focus is on hands-on learning with the primary goal of setting up and solving significant applied problems with Mathematica. Prerequisite: MATH-155
MATH-222 - APPLIED MATHEMATICS 2  3 credits
Topics include limits; rates of change; differentiation of algebraic, logarithmic, and exponential functions: applications of the derivative; definite and indefinite integration; applications of the definite integral. PREREQUISITE: MATH-122.
MATH-232 - TECHNICAL MATHEMATICS 2  4 credits
Logarithms, systems of nonlinear equations, inequalities, variation, progressions, trigonometric identities and equations, inverse trigonometric functions, analytical geometry, introduction to differential and integral calculus. PREREQUISITE: MATH-132.
MATH-255 - CALCULUS 2  4 credits
Topics include antiderivatives, indefinite and definite integration, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, integration techniques, differential equations, infinite series and Taylor Polynomials. Computer based labs are an integral part of the course. PREREQUISITE:MATH-155 or its equivalent.
MATH-257 - CALCULUS FOR BUSINESS, LIFE, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 2  3 credits
Continuation of MATH-157. Elementary techniques of integration, introduction to differential equations, applications to several mathematical models in business, life, and social sciences, and partial derivatives. PREREQUISITE: MATH-157.
MATH-300 - TEACHING EXPERIENCE IN MATHEMATICS  1 credit
This course will provide STCC students with an opportunity to be a Teaching Assistant in the Springfield elementary and middle schools. Principles of instructional design, instructional methods, instructional technology and models of assessment will be covered in a seminar format before students teach their lesson. In addition, students will be experiencing mathematics in an active learning process in school classrooms in a supervised and structured experience. PREREQUISITE: Permission of instructor or ALGB-097
MATH-301 - TEACHING EXPERIENCE IN MATHEMATICS  1 credit
This course will provide STCC students with an opportunity to be a Teaching Assistant in the Springfield elementary and middle schools. Principles of instructional design, instructional methods, instructional technology and models of assessment will be covered in a seminar format before students teach their lesson. In addition, students will be experiencing mathematics in an active learning process in school classrooms in a supervised and structured experience. PREREQUISITE: Permission of instructor or ALGB-097
MATH-302 - TEACHING EXPERIENCE IN MATHEMATICS  1 credit
This course will provide STCC students with an opportunity to be a Teaching Assistant in the Springfield elementary and middle schools. Principles of instructional design, instructional methods, instructional technology and models of assessment will be covered in a seminar format before students teach their lesson. In addition, students will be experiencing mathematics in an active learning process in school classrooms in a supervised and structured experience. PREREQUISITE: Permission of instructor or ALGB-097
MATH-355 - CALCULUS 3  4 credits
Topics include polar coordinates, multivariable calculus: 3-dimensional coordinate systems and surfaces from Rn to Rm; limits and continuity; partial differentiation; chain rule; the gradient: directional derivatives; maxima and minima; multiple integration and applications; vector calculus: line integrals, surface integrals; Green’s Theorem; Divergence Theorem; Stoke’s Theorem. Computer labs illustrating basic concepts are an essential part of the course. PREREQUISITE: MATH-255 or its equivalent.
MATH-376 - DISCRETE STRUCTURES  4 credits
This course is a study of the discrete structures of mathematics. They include propositional calculus, quantification, sets, functions, sequences and series, number theoretic functions, proofs - direct and indirect, induction, combinatorics, discrete probability, recurrence relations, equivalence relations, partial orderings, graphs, paths, and finite state machines. Four hours of lecture. PREREQUISITE: MATH-255.
MATH-439 - LINEAR ALGEBRA  3 credits
Geometric vectors; vector spaces, systems of linear equations; inner product spaces; linear transformations and matrices; determinants; eigenvalues and eigenvectors. PREREQUISITE: Calculus 2 MATH-255 or permission of instructor.
MATH-440 - LINEAR ALGEBRA LABORATORY  1 credit
This is a one-semester-hour computer laboratory illustrating applications of linear algebra and using a computer algebra system. PREREQUISITE: MATH-255, COREQUISITE: MATH-439.
MATH-455 - DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS  4 credits
Classical methods of solution of first order and linear higher order ordinary differential equations. LaPlace Transform and Power Series solutions of linear ordinary differential equations. Matrix solutions to linear systems of ordinary differential equations. Numerical methods of solution of first order ordinary differential equations using the digital computer. Computer labs illustrating basic concepts are an essential part of the course. PREREQUISITE: MATH-355 (or MATH-255 with permission of instructor).
STAT-142 - STATISTICS  3 credits
Descriptive methods of collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting categorical and numerical data. Elementary probability theory, estimation, and hypothesis testing. This course is transferable to four-year colleges. PREREQUISITE: ALGB-093, ALGB-097 or math placement of MATH-101.