Finite Mathematics

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The topics of finite mathematics broaden a student's mathematical horizon in an interesting direction not covered by calculus, which deals mostly with continuous models. The course begins with the fundamental principles of discrete mathematics, including sets, permutations, and counting systematically. Thereafter, these principles are seen in action in three indispensable areas of the modern world: probability, optimization, and game theory. Introducing students to probability theory, the course covers the main concepts of discrete probability, including random variables, dependence, statistics and Bayesian inference. The course introduces students to linear optimization from an intuitive, geometric, perspective using basic notions from linear algebra. Finally, the course applies basic concepts from linear algebra to game theory, including two-player mixed strategy games.