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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Introduction to Abstract Algebra
Module Code MTH1053 (ITS: MS321)
Faculty Mathematical Sciences School Science & Health
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Description

This module provides an introduction to modern abstract algebra. In this module students will develop knowledge and skills in the basic algebraic structure of groups. The participants are expected to have a good knowledge of linear algebra and experience with the abstract approach to mathematics. Students are expected to attend lectures, participate in tutorials and take in-class tests.

Learning Outcomes

1. Do basic computations in groups.
2. Compute structures of factor groups
3. Compute structures of abelian groups
4. Construct proofs of simple propositions


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Lecture24Lecture
Tutorial11tutorial
Independent Study90No Description
Total Workload: 125
Section Breakdown
CRN11219Part of TermSemester 1
Coursework0%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsY
Resit CategoryRC3Best MarkY
Module Co-ordinatorNiamh O'SullivanModule TeacherThomas Brady
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Short Answer Questionsn/a20%As required
Formal ExaminationEnd-of-Semester Final Examination80%End-of-Semester
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Groups
Definition, examples, basic properties

Subgroups
Definition, examples, classification of subgroups of cyclic groups

Factor groups
Cosets, Lagrange's Theorem, normal subgroups, homomorphisms, factor groups

Finite abelian groups
Direct products, structure of finite abelian groups

Indicative Reading List

Books:
  • Jonathan K. Hodge,Steven Schlicker,Ted Sundstrom: 2013, Abstract Algebra, CRC Press, 595, 9781466567061
  • John B. Fraleigh;: 2003, A first course in abstract algebra, Addison-Wesley, Boston, 9780201763904
  • David S. Dummit,Richard M. Foote: 2004, Abstract Algebra, John Wiley & Sons, 932, 9780471433347
  • Joseph J. Rotman: 1996, A first course in abstract algebra, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, N.J., 0133113744
  • Joseph A. Gallian: 2020, Contemporary Abstract Algebra, CRC Press, 624, 9780367651787


Articles:
None
Other Resources

None

<< Back to Module List View 2024/25 Module Record for MS321