MATH-UA 120 Discrete Mathematics

4 points. Fall, Spring and Summer terms.

Course Description

This course is a one-semester introduction to discrete mathematics with an emphasis on the understanding, composition and critiquing of mathematical proofs. At the semester's conclusion, the successful student will be able to:

  • write clear mathematical statements using standard notation and terminology.
  • understand and execute a variety of proof techniques (contradiction, induction, etc.).
  • show fluency in the language of basic set theory and Boolean logic.
  • understand the basic theorems and their implications in a variety of (discrete) fields including:
    • function theory
    • group theory
    • number theory
    • graph theory

Prerequisites

To register for this course, students must satisfy at least one (1) of the following prerequisites:

  1. Completion of MATH-UA 009 Algebra, Trigonometry and Functions with a grade of C or higher
    • A grade of "Pass/Fail" or an "Incomplete" do NOT satisfy the prerequisite
  2. SAT score of 670 or higher on mathematics portion 1
  3. ACT/ACTE Math score of 30 or higher 1
  4. Valid AP Score:
    • AP Precalculus score of 4 or higher
    • AP Calculus AB score of 3 or higher
    • AP Calculus BC score of 3 or higher
  5. A Level Maths score of C or higher 
    • Students who took A Level Further Maths should contact the Math Department
  6. AS Level Maths score of B or higher
  7. IB Mathematics exam result from 2021 - 2027 
    • IB Analysis and Approaches HL score of 5 or higher
    • IB Applications and Interpretations HL score of 5 or higher
    • IB Analysis and Approaches SL score of 7
  8. IB Mathematics exam result from 2014 - 2020
    • IB Mathematics HL score of 5 or higher
    • IB Mathematics SL score of 6 or higher
    • IB Mathematical Studies SL score of 7
  9. Passing Calculus/MFE I placement exam

1 ACT and SAT scores must be submitted to NYU and posted in your academic records in order to satisfy the prerequisite. We do not accept screenshots of ACT or SAT scores.

Sample Syllabi

Discrete mathematics is not coordinated in the same sense as other multi-section courses with a common final exam (e.g., calculus). As such the instructor has final discretion in topics chosen and course policies. Below are syllabi from recent implementations.