MATH 520 Number Theory (Graduate)

Number theory is the study of properties and relationships of numbers, especially the positive integers. Topics in elementary number theory include divisibility properties of integers, properties of primes, congruences, quadratic reciprocity, and integer solutions to basic equations (e.g. Diophantine equations). Even though number theory is one of the oldest disciplines in mathematics, it has been a contributor to solving many modern practical problems in areas such as coding theory, cryptography, and information technology. In this course students will demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental results in elementary number theory and extend their understanding beyond typical undergraduate number theory by exploring modern applications and other interesting problems in number theory.

Prerequisite:  An introductory course (or experience) in writing mathematical proofs (some frequently used proof techniques will be reviewed at the beginning of the course).