Stony Brook
Second Year Mathematics Courses
Second Year Mathematics Courses
Multi-variable calculus
First year calculus develops the basics of one variable calculus -- but describing most real-life situations requires more than one variable. You usually need at least three dimensions to describe situations in physics, while movements in systems like the stock market depend on many more variables. Other sciences such as biology and chemistry regularly require functions of several variables. Calculus III studies calculus in spaces of two and three dimensions. It develops the fundamental concepts needed to understand movement in three dimensions, three dimensional geometry, electricity, the motion of fluids, probability, volume, and the maximization of quantities such as profit, which depend on many variables. There are two versions of Calculus III. Either version is acceptable for the mathematics major, although some other departments require one rather than the other.
This version of Calculus III continues the spirit of the applied first-year calculus sequence. It has a syllabus quite similar to AMS 261.
(4 credits)
This version of Calculus III is recommended for those students who would like a deeper understanding of the underlying mathematical concepts. We highly recommend that students take MAT211 either before, or while, taking MAT205.
(3 credits)
Linear Algebra
Linear algebra is an essential tool for studying situations that depend on many variables. It provides important insights into solving simultaneous equations, and shows how these solutions may be described in terms of certain fundamental algebraic ideas, like bases and eigenvalues, which are themselves used to help understand more complicated phenomena such as the resonance of vibrating systems or fluctuations in populations.
This course is taught in the Applied Mathematics and Statistics department, and has an applied focus.
(3 credits)
This course spends more time discussing the theoretical foundations of linear algebra. Besides being required for the major, MAT 211 is a prerequisite for many 300 level MAT classes. We strongly encourage mathematics majors to take it early on. It can be taken in the first year together with MAT132 and provides a helpful background for MAT 205.
(3 credits)
General
This course is intended for students who are interested in developing both their mathematical intuition and their ability to express mathematical ideas, while having fun solving problems. It can be taken repeatedly for credit. Students have the opportunity to sign up for the Putnam exam, a competitive national mathematics exam for undergraduates, held each December.
(1 credit)
