Math 171: Abstract Algebra

Prof.'s Dagan Karp and Mike Orrison
Fall 2008

Overview

Topics for this course include groups, group actions, rings, and fields. Prerequisites: Math 12 (Linear Algebra) and Math 55 (Discrete Mathematics), or the permission of the instructor.

Instructors

Dagan Karp
1267 Olin
Office hours: Tuesday 3:30-4:30 PM

Mike Orrison
1280 Olin
Office hours: TBA

Tutors

There may be teaching assistants/tutors available for this class. Their names and schedule will appear here as that information becomes available.

Textbook

We will use Abstract Algebra, Third Edition, by D. Dummit and R. Foote.

Grading

There will be three midterms and twice weekly homework. Each will count for one fifth of your grade. The remaining fifth will be the maximum of the four items above.

Homework

Written homework will be due each Monday and Thursday, and is posted on the link above. Please submit Monday's homework in class, and Thursday's homework directly to your instructor (or their mailbox). You are encouraged to discuss the homework with other members of the class, and it is appropriate to acknowledge the assistance of others. You will, however, be expected to write up your solutions on your own. The instructor will reserve the right to refuse to accept late homework for any reason. Graded homework, however, may (in most cases) be rewritten and submitted at a later date.

Please consult the HMC mathematics homework format guidelines for helpful tips on homework submission and formatting.

Exam dates

There will be three midterms, all of which will be taken home. They will be passed out on Wed. Oct. 1, Wed. Nov. 5 and Wed. Dec 10.

LaTeX

Students interested in using LaTeX for homework typesetting may find Eric Malm's newly created Problem Set Class useful.

Disabilities

Students who need disability-related accommodations are encouraged to discuss this with the instructor as soon as possible.