Description:   The goals of the class are to learn the basic techniques and theorems of modern abstract algebra (groups and rings), to expose you to the axiomatic approach in modern mathematics, and last but not least to make you more familiar with proofs.
Topics to be covered include permutations, groups, subgroups, homomorphisms and factor groups, rings, ideals and factor rings, polynomial rings, fields, and extension fields. Modern abstract algebra has a wide variety of applications: mathematics itself, physics, automata and theoretical computer science, cryptography and information theory, biology, and other. We will see some applications in the class.

Prerequisites:     MTH215 and MTH307.

Textbook:     Joseph A. Gillian, Contemporary Abstract Algebra, 8th edition, Cengage Learning, 2013,   ISBN-10: 1133599702, ISBN-13: 9781133599708

Evaluation:     The grade will be based on the homework assignments (the lowest homework score will be dropped), the midsemester exams, and the final in the following way: homework 30%, the midterm exams 20 each%, the final 30%.

Accommodations:     Any student with a documented disability is welcome to contact me as early in the semester as possible so that we may arrange reasonable accommodations. As part of this process, please be in touch with Disability Services for Students Office at 330 Memorial Union, 401-874-2098 (http://www.uri.edu/disability/dss/).

Illness due to flu:     If any of us develop flu-like symptoms, we are being advised to stay home until the fever has subsided for 24 hours. So, if you exhibit such symptoms, please do not come to class. Notify me at 874-4451 or my email of your status, and we will work together to ensure that course instruction and work is completed for the semester.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have posted simple methods to avoid transmission of illness. These include: covering your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing; frequent washing or sanitizing your hands; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and staying home when you are sick. For more information please view www.cdc.gov/flu or flu.gov . URI Health Services web page, www.health.uri.edu , will carry advice and local updates.

Standards of behaviour:     Students are responsible for being familiar with and adhering to the published "Community Standards of Behavior: University Policies and Regulations" which can be accessed in the University Student Handbook. If you must come in late, please do not disrupt the class. Please turn off all cell phones, pagers, or any electronic devices.