MA210 Half Unit
Discrete Mathematics
This information is for the 2021/22 session.
Teacher responsible
Prof Peter Allen
Availability
This course is available on the BSc in Business Mathematics and Statistics, BSc in Mathematics and Economics, BSc in Mathematics with Economics and BSc in Mathematics, Statistics and Business. This course is available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit. This course is available with permission to General Course students.
Pre-requisites
MA103 Introduction to Abstract Mathematics, or an equivalent course giving a background in rigorous mathematics.
Course content
This is a course covering a number of concepts and techniques of discrete mathematics. Topics covered: Counting: selections; inclusion-exclusion; generating functions; recurrence relations. Graph Theory: basic concepts; walks, paths, tours and cycles; trees and forests; colourings. Coding theory: basic concepts; linear codes.
Teaching
This course is delivered through a combination of classes and lectures totalling a minimum of 30 hours across Lent Term. This year, some or all of this teaching will be delivered through a combination of virtual classes and online video lectures.
Formative coursework
Written answers to set problems will be expected on a weekly basis.
Indicative reading
PJ Cameron, Combinatorics (CUP 1994)
An alternative book is: NL Biggs, Discrete Mathematics (OUP 2004)
Extensive notes covering the course content in full will be distributed, so you may well not need either book.
Assessment
Exam (90%, duration: 2 hours) in the summer exam period.
Problem sets (10%) in the LT.
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Important information in response to COVID-19
Please note that during 2021/22 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the differing needs of students in attendance on campus and those who might be studying online. For example, this may involve changes to the mode of teaching delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.
Key facts
Department: Mathematics
Total students 2020/21: 30
Average class size 2020/21: 10
Capped 2020/21: No
Value: Half Unit
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Problem solving
- Application of information skills
- Communication
- Application of numeracy skills
- Specialist skills
