MATH 5353 - Abstract Algebra I

Instructor: Dr. Lucy Lifschitz.
Office: 922 Physical Sciences Center [PHSC].
Phone: 325-0159 E-mail: llifschitz@math.ou.edu
Office Hours: Wednesday 9:30am - 11:30am and by appointment

Text: The textbook for this course is A Course in Algebra by E.B. Vinberg. We will also use Algebra by T.W. Hungerford for additional references and some problems. This book will be placed on reserve in the library.

Course Outline: This algebra course is a first year graduate course. In it we will learn about various algebraic systems such as groups, rings, fields and modules, their structure and properties. We will also explore more advanced topics of Galois theory, linear representations of groups and Lie groups (if time permits).

Prerequisites: Linear Algebra, Abstract Linear Algebra

Grading Scheme: Grades will be assigned by weighting your totals from Homework, Midterm, and a Final Examination as follows:

Homework 20%

Midterms 50%

Final Examination 30%

The resulting grade will be reduced by up to one letter grade, if your participation in class and problem sessions is insufficient.

Below, there is a detailed description of each of these components.

Homework:  The problem assignments with their due dates will be posted on the course website. In addition, we will have problem solving sessions at a time to be determined. In these sessions you will present homework problems at the board. You should feel free to discuss homework problems with other students in class. However, it is important to develop details by yourself and write up solutions in your own words.

Lectures: You are expected to attend all lectures and participate in in-class discussions.

Midterms: There will be two midterms .

Final Examination: The final examination is is scheduled for Tuesday,December 14, 1:30 - 3:30 pm.

Taking Examinations: Here are a few notes on taking Examinations.

• There will be extra office hours before the exams that you are strongly encouraged to attend.
• You cannot use books or any type of notes during the examinations.
• All examinations must be taken at scheduled times, except in very extreme circumstances. Otherwise, an absence at an exam will result in a score of zero. So be careful not to make travel arrangements that conflict with examination times.

Academic misconduct: The following is taken from the University Academic Misconduct Code. It is the responsibility of each instructor and each student to be familiar with the definitions, policies, and procedures concerning academic misconduct. Cases of academic misconduct are inexcusable. Don't do it. All cases of academic misconduct will be reported to the Dean of Arts and Sciences for adjudication.

Accommodation of Disabilities: Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent him or her from fully demonstrating his or her abilities should contact me personally as soon as possible to discuss the accommodations necessary to facilitate his or her educational opportunity and ensure his or her full participation in the course.