MATH GU4042: Introduction to Modern Algebra II
Spring 2018

The most up-to-date information on this course can be found on the Courseworks page for this course.

Time and place: MW 8:40-9:55am Location: 203 Diana
Lecturer: Walter Neumann (x45074, 616 Mathematics, neumann@math.columbia.edu, www.math.columbia.edu/~neumann); office hours MW 11-12am or by appointment.

This is the second semester of a two-semester sequence on Abstract Algebra. It will cover rings, fields, Galois theory


Recommended Text: Dummit and Foote, Abstract Algebra, third edition, Wiley 2004. Available at the University bookstore; see also AddALL.

Other recommended texts. There are very many texts in Abstract Algebra and just browsing the library is recommended for further examples, history, or different treatment of the material. Here is a selection of some recommended ones.


Homework: There will be weekly problem sets, due in the homework box on the 4th floor Mathematics by 1pm on Wednesdays. Although only a portion of the homework will be graded, you should attempt every homework problem and eventually understand how to do every problem correctly. Collaboration and discussion with classmates is encouraged, but you must write up assignments individually.

Exams: There will be one 75-minute midterm exam and a final. Schedule:

If you have two final examinations scheduled at the same time, it is the responsibility of the other department to provide an alternate exam. Makeup Midterm will be given only under exceptional circumstances and need a note from a doctor or a dean.

Grading: The final course grade will be determined by:

Homework: 30%
Midterm exam: 30%,
Final exam: 40%.


Help: My office hours are MW 11:00-12:00 or by appointment. Help is also available without appointment in the Mathematics help room (406 Mathematics).