MAT 551: Algebra I (Spring 2011)

Stefan Kohl

Course Description

This course comprises the group theory part of the course sequence MAT 551 / 552.

Literature (among many other good books on the topic):

• Serge Lang: Algebra. Springer GTM 211, 2002.
• Joseph J. Rotman: An Introduction to the Theory of Groups. Springer GTM 148, 1995.
• Derek J.S. Robinson: A Course in the Theory of Groups. Springer GTM 80, 1996.

The first is a general book on algebra which briefly treats many parts of the subject, without going into depth. The second and third are good introductions to group theory, which is the main subject of this course.

Software: GAP (Groups, Algorithms and Programming) -- a system for computational discrete algebra.

Timetable

Grading

• Homework: 20%
• Midterm 1: 20%
• Midterm 2: 20%
• Final: 40%

Examinations

• Midterm 1: Monday, 02.05.2011, 16:30-17:45. Questions. Answers.
• Midterm 2: Wednesday, 25.05.2011, 16:30-17:45. Questions. Answers.
• Final: Monday, 27.06.2011, 14:00-16:00. Questions. Answers.

Homework

• Exercise sheet 1, due April 18, 2011.
• Exercise sheet 2, due April 27, 2011.
• Exercise sheet 3, due May 18, 2011.
• Exercise sheet 4, due June 6, 2011.

Schedule

• 4.4., 6.4., 11.4., 13.4.: Theory.
• 18.4.: Discussion of Exercise Sheet 1.
• 20.4.: Theory.
• 27.4.: Discussion of Exercise Sheet 2.
• 2.5.: Midterm 1.
• 4.5.: Discussion of Midterm 1.
• 9.5., 11.5., 16.5.: Theory.
• 18.5.: Discussion of Exercise Sheet 3.
• 23.5.: Theory.
• 25.5.: Midterm 2.
• 30.5.: Discussion of Midterm 2.
• 1.6., 6.6.: Theory.
• 8.6., 13.6.: Discussion of Exercise Sheet 4.
• 15.6.: Preparation for Final Exam.