Basic Q Courses
The Department of Mathematics offers 29 Q Courses
ranging from Basic Algebra and Problem Solving to Multivariable Calculus, Differential Equations,
Analysis and Fundamentals of Abstract Algebra and Geometry.
This page aims to help you choose a basic Q Course
(i.e. Math 1011Q(104Q) to Math 1071Q(106Q)) in the Department of Mathematics.
It is probably also a good idea to talk to friends and colleagues who have
taken some of these courses in the past.
If you still have a problem deciding, contact the undergraduate coordinator
of the math department, David Gross
For general information on the philosophy behind Q Courses, consult the
GEOC Webpage.
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Math 1020Q(102Q) :
Problem Solving
The course explores different aspects of problem solving like logical thinking and
developing a more methodical way in approaching very different problems. Its flavor
is sometimes somewhat reminiscent of IQ tests. Although a working knowledge of basic
algebras is definitely a plus, it is less critical than in any of the other courses
on this list.
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Math 1030Q(103Q) :
Elementary Discrete Mathematics
The syllabus for Math 1030Q(103Q) is quite diverse, it contains voting models, elementary interest theory,
discrete probability theory and some basic coding algorithms (if time permits). The overlap with
Math 1070Q(105Q) is considerable.
An elementary knowledge of algebra is assumed, but less so that in e.g. Math 1070Q(105Q), 1071Q(106Q) or 1060Q(109Q).
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Math 1011Q(104Q) :
Introductory College Algebra and Mathematical Modeling
All students whose high school algebra needs reinforcement should take this course. In particular,
students who did not take a course in Intermediate Algebra prior to enrollment at UConn, or had taken
such a course and obtained a grade of C or lower, or had not taken a course in mathematics for a number
of years, are strongly advised to take Math 1011Q(104Q), before attempting to enroll in any other Q Course.
It is a small investment of your time, that will earn you 3 Q credits which count towards graduation,
and repay you with a successful completion of your other Q courses at UConn.
Weak algebra skills tend to become a bigger problem, not a smaller one as you progress in your
college career and take courses in any subject that require some manipulation or even interpretation
of (numerical) results.
Check out the Math 1011Q(104Q) Permanent Website.
Note: Math 1011Q(104Q) is an enhanced version of the now defunct course Math 1010.
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Math 1070Q(105Q) :
Mathematics for Business and Economics
Math 1070Q(105Q) is one of the two standard mathematics courses taken by most business and economics majors.
It's syllabus is very diverse, containing some elementary interest theory, linear algebra (matrices),
linear programming (optimization), combinatorics and probability theory. A working knowledge of
algebra is expected and necessary. A lot of students find the part on combinatorics and probability
theory conceptually somewhat hard to grasp.
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Math 1071Q(106Q) :
Calculus for Business and Economics
Math 1071Q(106Q) is the other one of the two standard mathematics courses taken by most business and
economics majors. The syllabus is a somewhat trimmed down version of the material in
Math 1120Q(112Q) / Math 1121Q(113Q). As with all calculus courses, a good working knowledge of algebra
is essential.
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Math 1040Q(107Q) :
Elementary Mathematical Modeling
The goal of Math 1040Q(107Q) is to present a conceptually and technologically intensive sample of the role of
algebra and trigonometry in modeling real-life phenomena, with only modest emphasis on symbolic
manipulation.
So an elementary knowledge of algebra is expected, but less so than in Math 1060Q(109Q).
Warning: Although the syllabus has quite a lot in common with Math 1060Q(109Q), it is not considered
adequate preparation for a calculus sequence.
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Math 1050Q(108Q) :
Mathematical Modeling in the Environment
This course will provide an interdisciplinary, in-depth introduction to several important environmental
issues such as ground water contamination, air pollution and handling of hazardous materials. We will
consider the key physical and chemical processes, and the legal, political and ethical implications,
along with the quantitative aspects involved in these issues. You will learn how mathematical models
are used naturally and routinely to help analyze these issues fully.
Only an elementary knowledge of algebra is expected. The course includes a computer component, mainly
using Google and Excel.
Check out the Math 1050Q(108Q) Permanent Website.
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Math 1060Q(109Q) :
Pre Calculus
Math 1060Q(109Q) is for students intending to take calculus but who find their pre-calculus skills deficient.
The course covers functions and their applications: polynomials, rational functions, exponentials,
logarithms and trigonometric functions.
This course assumes a working knowledge of basic algebra; Math 1011Q(104Q) is adequate preparation.
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