Math 464: Algebra III

MWF 11:00AM, HB 453

This course will develop algebraic techniques central to current mathematical research:
Tensor products, exact sequences, symmetric and exterior algebra
Commutative algebra and Groebner bases, with applications to algebraic geometry and number theory
Representation theory of finite groups, character theory, applications to the structure of finite groups
Introduction to homological algebra and group cohomology
We will assume students are familiar with the content of Algebra I and II, including basic results of group theory, ring theory, and field theory.

Homework: Assignments will be posted to the course webpage each Monday, to be turned in the following Monday by 5PM. You may discuss the homework assignments with other students, but you should write up your work independently. No late homework will be accepted.

Midterm: There will be a take-home midterm examination during the weekend Friday-Sunday, February 22-24.

Grading:

Homework 40%
Midterm 20%
Final 40%

Text: Dummit and Foote, Abstract Algebra (third edition) John Wiley and Sons, 2004

ADA statement: Any student with a documented disability seeking academic adjustments or accommodations is requested to speak with me during the first two weeks of class. All such discussions will remain as confidential as possible. Students with disabilities will need to also contact Disability Support Services in the Ley Student Center.

Contact information:
Brendan Hassett
Office: Herman Brown 402
Phone: (713) 348-5261
Email: hassett@math.rice.edu
Webpage: http://www.math.rice.edu/~hassett
Office hours: M 12, W 2, F 3