MATH 107 Applied Mathematics for Management (3)

Catalog Description:

Functions and graphs, mathematics of finance, matrices, simultaneous systems, linear programming, introduction to business calculus. Meets General Education Mathematical Sciences requirement. (Offered each semester.)


Prerequisites:

  1. Algebraic skills needed to solve inequalities and equations involving polynomial expressions.
  2. An understanding of the use of variables.
  3. Knowledge of basic properties of the real number system.
  4. The ability to use the Cartesian plane to plot and draw graphs.

Required Course Materials:


Ronald J. Harshbarger and James J. Reynolds, Mathematical Applications for Management, Life, and Social Sciences, 10th edition, Cengage (ISBN: 9781133106234)

Course Coordinator:


Samuel P. Wilcock, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mathematics and Statistics

Course Audience:


Students pursuing a degree in some area of management and business or others who desire a better understanding of some of the quantitative aspects of business.

Course Objectives:


A student who successfully completes this course should be able:

  1. To develop a connection between the power of mathematics and the solutions of business oriented problems.
  2. To demonstrate skill in using matrices as a tool in problem solving.
  3. To communicate mathematical concepts through written laboratory assignments and classroom discussions.
  4. To not only see business applications of mathematics, but also to develop a clearer understanding of some of the structures of mathematics such as the real number system, functions, and matrices.
  5. To select and use technology when appropriate in problem solving.

The following are the objectives of the course as a General Education course fulfilling the mathematical science requirement:

  1. To identify methods and assumptions of the mathematical sciences.
  2. To introduce students to at least one of the three mathematical sciences of computing, mathematics and statistics from a liberal arts perspective.
  3. To help students think logically, analytically, and abstractly through engagement in quantitative problem solving activities.

Topics:

  1. Lines: a) graphing and b) solving linear equations.
  2. Functions: a) domain and range, b) function composition, c) graphing, and d) use of functions in modeling business concepts.
  3. Interest: a) simple, b) compound, and c) effective rate of a loan.
  4. Annuities: a) present and future value, b) ordinary and annuities due, c) sinking funds, and d) amortization of a loan.
  5. Matrices: a) matrix multiplication and addition, b) matrix inverses, and c) representation of a system of equations.
  6. Linear programming: a) geometric approach and b) simplex method.
  7. Solutions of systems of linear equations: a) Gauss-Jordan method, b) elimination of variables, and c) use of the computer.

 

Revised: February 2013 (text update)

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