Instructor: Brian Osserman
Lectures: MWF 11:00-11:50am, MSB 3106
CRN: 52761
Office: MSB 3218, e-mail:
Office Hours: M 10-11, W 3-4
TA: Chris Berg MSB 3206 and Eddie Kim MSB 2131
Discussion: R 11:00-11:50am, Veihmeyer 116
TA Office Hours: Chris R 2-3, Eddie W 10:00-11:00
Prerequisites: 250AB or permission of instructor
Required Text: Dummit and Foote, Abstract Algebra
Syllabus: We will begin with a rapid review of basic group theory, and then move on to more advanced topics in group theory, including free groups and presentations, the Sylow theorems, the Jordan-Holder theorem, solvable groups, semidirect products, and profinite groups. We then cover field theory and Galois theory, and if time allows, we will also discuss supplementary topics in commutative algebra such as Grobner bases, Artin rings, and Dedekind domains.
Grading: 100% homework
Homework: Homework will be assigned roughly weekly
Homework assignments and supplementary notes will be posted here as the course progresses. We will not necessarily follow the textbook closely, so attendance at lecture is strongly encouraged.
Problem sets will be posted here on Fridays, due the following Fridays. You are encouraged to collaborate with other students, as long as you do not simply copy their answers.
I will post here supplemental lecture notes on topics which are not covered in the textbook.