DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Course 18)

The Department of Mathematics (http://math.mit.edu) offers

General Mathematics Option
training at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels.
In addition to the General Institute Requirements, the requirements
Its expertise covers a broad spectrum of fields ranging from the
consist of Differential Equations, plus eight additional 12-unit
traditional areas of "pure" mathematics, such as analysis, algebra,
subjects in Course 18 of essentially different content, including at
geometry, and topology, to applied mathematics areas such as
least six advanced subjects (first decimal digit one or higher). One
combinatorics, computational biology, fluid dynamics, theoretical
of these eight subjects must be Linear Algebra. This leaves available
computer science, and theoretical physics.
84 units of unrestricted electives. The requirements are flexible in
Course 18 includes two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of order to accommodate students who pursue programs that combine
Science in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics mathematics with a related field (such as physics, economics,
with Computer Science. Undergraduate students may choose one or management) as well as students who are interested in both
of three options leading to the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics: pure and applied mathematics. More details can be found on the
applied mathematics, pure mathematics, or general mathematics. degree chart (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/mathematics-
The general mathematics option provides a great deal of flexibility course-18/#generalmathematicstext).
and allows students to design their own programs in conjunction
with their advisors. The Mathematics with Computer Science degree Applied Mathematics Option
is offered for students who want to pursue interests in mathematics Applied mathematics focuses on the mathematical concepts and
and theoretical computer science within a single undergraduate techniques applied in science, engineering, and computer science.
program. Particular attention is given to the following principles and their
mathematical formulations: propagation, equilibrium, stability,
At the graduate level, the Mathematics Department offers the PhD optimization, computation, statistics, and random processes.
in Mathematics, which culminates in the exposition of original
research in a dissertation. Graduate students also receive training Sophomores interested in applied mathematics typically enroll
and gain experience in the teaching of mathematics. in 18.200 Principles of Discrete Applied Mathematics and 18.300
Principles of Continuum Applied Mathematics. Subject 18.200 is
The CLE Moore instructorships and Applied Mathematics devoted to the discrete aspects of applied mathematics and may be
instructorships bring mathematicians at the postdoctoral level to taken concurrently with 18.03 Differential Equations. Subject 18.300,
MIT and provide them with training in research and teaching. offered in the spring term, is devoted to continuous aspects and
makes considerable use of differential equations.

Undergraduate Study The subjects in Group I of the program correspond roughly to those
areas of applied mathematics that make heavy use of discrete
An undergraduate degree in mathematics provides an excellent mathematics, while Group II emphasizes those subjects that
basis for graduate work in mathematics or computer science, or deal mainly with continuous processes. Some subjects, such as
for employment in such fields as finance, business, or consulting. probability or numerical analysis, have both discrete and continuous
Students' programs are arranged through consultation with their aspects.
faculty advisors.
Students planning to go on to graduate work in applied mathematics
Undergraduates in mathematics are encouraged to elect an should also take some basic subjects in analysis and algebra.
undergraduate seminar during their junior or senior year. The
experience gained from active participation in a seminar conducted More detail on the Applied Mathematics option can be found on the
by a research mathematician has proven to be valuable for students degree chart (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/mathematics-
planning to pursue graduate work as well as for those going on to course-18/#appliedmathematicstext).
other careers. These seminars also provide training in the verbal and
written communication of mathematics and may be used to fulfill the Pure Mathematics Option
Communication Requirement. Pure (or "theoretical") mathematics is the study of the basic
concepts and structure of mathematics. Its goal is to arrive at a
Many mathematics majors take 18.821 Project Laboratory in deeper understanding and an expanded knowledge of mathematics
Mathematics, which fulfills the Institute's Laboratory Requirement itself.
and counts toward the Communication Requirement.
Traditionally, pure mathematics has been classified into three
general fields: analysis, which deals with continuous aspects of
mathematics; algebra, which deals with discrete aspects; and

Department of Mathematics   |   3
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

geometry. The undergraduate program is designed so that students

become familiar with each of these areas. Students also may wish to Inquiries
explore other topics such as logic, number theory, complex analysis, For further information, see the department's website (http://
and subjects within applied mathematics. math.mit.edu/academics/undergrad) or contact Math Academic
Services, 617-253-2416.
The subjects 18.701 Algebra I and 18.901 Introduction to Topology
are more advanced and should not be elected until a student has
had experience with proofs, as in Real Analysis (18.100A, 18.100B,
Graduate Study
18.100P or 18.100Q) or 18.700 Linear Algebra.
The Mathematics Department offers programs covering a broad
For more details, see the degree chart (http:// range of topics leading to the Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of
catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/mathematics-course-18/ Science degree. Candidates are admitted to either the Pure or
#theoreticalmathematicstext). Applied Mathematics programs but are free to pursue interests in
both groups. Of the roughly 120-130 doctoral students, about two
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Computer Science thirds are in Pure Mathematics, one third in Applied Mathematics.
(Course 18-C)
Mathematics and computer science are closely related fields. The programs in Pure and Applied Mathematics offer basic and
Problems in computer science are often formalized and solved with advanced classes in analysis, algebra, geometry, Lie theory, logic,
mathematical methods. It is likely that many important problems number theory, probability, statistics, topology, astrophysics,
currently facing computer scientists will be solved by researchers combinatorics, fluid dynamics, numerical analysis, theoretical
skilled in algebra, analysis, combinatorics, logic and/or probability physics, and the theory of computation. In addition, many
theory, as well as computer science. mathematically oriented subjects are offered by other departments.
Students in Applied Mathematics are especially encouraged to
The purpose of this program is to allow students to study a take subjects in engineering and scientific subjects related to their
combination of these mathematical areas and potential areas of research.
application in computer science. Required subjects include linear
algebra (18.06 or 18.700) because it is so broadly used, and discrete All students pursue research under the supervision of the faculty
mathematics (18.062[J] or 18.200) to give experience with proofs and and are encouraged to take advantage of the many seminars and
the necessary tools for analyzing algorithms. The required subjects colloquia at MIT and in the Boston area.
covering complexity (18.404 Theory of Computation or 18.400[J]
Automata, Computability, and Complexity) and algorithms (18.410[J] Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Science
Design and Analysis of Algorithms) provide an introduction to the The requirements for these degrees are described on the
most theoretical aspects of computer science.  We also require department's website (http://math.mit.edu/academics/grad/
exposure to other areas of computer science (6.031, 6.033, 6.034, timeline). In outline, they consist of a language requirement, an oral
or 6.036) where mathematical issues may also arise. More details qualifying examination, a thesis proposal, completion of a minimum
can be found on the degree chart (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree- of 132 units (11 graduate subjects), and a thesis containing original
charts/mathematics-computer-science-course-18-c). research in mathematics.

Some flexibility is allowed in this program. In particular, students Interdisciplinary Programs

may substitute the more advanced subject 18.701 Algebra I for 18.06
Linear Algebra, and, if they already have strong theorem-proving Computational Science and Engineering
skills, may substitute 18.211 Combinatorial Analysis or 18.212 Students with primary interest in computational science may also
Algebraic Combinatorics for 18.062[J] Mathematics for Computer consider applying to the interdisciplinary Computational Science
Science or 18.200 Principles of Discrete Applied Mathematics. and Engineering (CSE) program, with which the Mathematics
Department is affiliated. For more information, see the CSE website
Minor in Mathematics (http://gradadmissions.mit.edu/programs/cse).
The requirements for a Minor in Mathematics are as follows: six 12-
unit subjects in mathematics, beyond the Institute's Mathematics Mathematics and Statistics
Requirement, of essentially different content, including at least The Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics provides
three advanced subjects (first decimal digit one or higher). training in statistics, including classical statistics and probability
as well as computation and data analysis, to students who wish
See the Undergraduate Section for a general description of the minor
to integrate these valuable skills into their primary academic
program (http://catalog.mit.edu/mit/undergraduate-education/
program. The program is administered jointly by the departments
academic-programs/minors).
of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Economics, Mathematics, and
Political Science, and the Statistics and Data Science Center

4   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

within the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society. It is open to Tobias Colding, PhD
current doctoral students in participating departments, who may Cecil and Ida Green Distinguished Professor
apply to enroll in the program at any time after the end of their Professor of Mathematics
first year. For more information, see the full program description
(http://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/graduate-programs/phd- Alan Edelman, PhD
statistics) under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs. Professor of Mathematics

Pavel I. Etingof, PhD

Financial Support Professor of Mathematics
Financial support is guaranteed for up to five years to students
making satisfactory academic progress. Financial aid after the first Victor W. Guillemin, PhD
year is usually in the form of a teaching or research assistantship. Professor of Mathematics
(On leave, spring)
Inquiries
For further information, see the department's website (http:// Lawrence Guth, PhD
math.mit.edu/academics/grad) or contact Math Academic Services, Professor of Mathematics
617-253-2416. (On leave, fall)

Anette E. Hosoi, PhD

Neil and Jane Pappalardo Professor
Faculty and Teaching Staff Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Michel X. Goemans, PhD Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Applied Mathematics Associate Dean, School of Engineering
Head, Department of Mathematics
David S. Jerison, PhD
William Minicozzi, PhD Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics (On leave, fall)
Associate Head, Department of Mathematics
Steven G. Johnson, PhD
Professor of Mathematics
Professors
Professor of Physics
Michael Artin, PhD
Professor Post-Tenure of Mathematics Victor Kac, PhD
Professor of Mathematics
Martin Z. Bazant, PhD
Professor of Chemical Engineering Jonathan Adam Kelner, PhD
Professor of Mathematics Mark Hyman, Jr. Career Development Professor
Executive Officer, Department of Chemical Engineering Professor of Mathematics

Bonnie Berger, PhD Ju-Lee Kim, PhD

Simons Professor of Mathematics Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Computer Science
Member, Health Sciences and Technology Faculty Frank Thomson Leighton, PhD
Professor of Mathematics
Roman Bezrukavnikov, PhD (On leave)
Professor of Mathematics
George Lusztig, PhD
Alexei Borodin, PhD Edward A. Abdun-Nur (1924) Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics
Arthur P. Mattuck, PhD
John W. M. Bush, PhD Professor Post-Tenure of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics
Davesh Maulik, PhD
Hung Cheng, PhD Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics
Richard B. Melrose, PhD
Professor of Mathematics
(On leave, fall)

Department of Mathematics   |   5
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Haynes R. Miller, PhD

Professor of Mathematics Associate Professors
Laurent Demanet, PhD
Elchanan Mossel, PhD Associate Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics Associate Professor of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences
Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society
(On leave, fall) Joern Dunkel, PhD
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Tomasz S. Mrowka, PhD
Professor of Mathematics Semyon Dyatlov, PhD
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Bjorn Poonen, PhD (On leave)
Claude E. Shannon (1940) Professor of Mathematics
Ankur Moitra, PhD
Alexander Postnikov, PhD Rockwell International Career Development Professor
Professor of Mathematics Associate Professor of Mathematics
Rodolfo R. Rosales, PhD Philippe Rigollet, PhD
Professor of Mathematics Associate Professor of Mathematics
Paul Seidel, PhD Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society
Levinson Professor in Mathematics (On leave, spring)

Scott Roger Sheffield, PhD Nike Sun, PhD

Leighton Family Professor of Mathematics Associate Professor of Mathematics
Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society Gonçalo Jorge Trigo Neri Tabuada, PhD
Peter W. Shor, PhD Associate Professor of Mathematics
Henry Adams Morss and Henry Adams Morss, Jr. (1934) Professor
Professor of Mathematics Assistant Professors
(On leave, fall) Tristan Collins, PhD
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Michael Sipser, PhD
Donner Professor of Mathematics Vadim Gorin, PhD
Dean, School of Science Assistant Professor of Mathematics

Gigliola Staffilani, PhD Peter Hintz, PhD

Abby Rockefeller Mauzé Professor of Mathematics Assistant Professor of Mathematics

Gilbert Strang, PhD Andrew Lawrie, PhD

MathWorks Professor of Mathematics Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (On leave, fall)

Daniel W. Stroock, PhD Andrei Negut, PhD

Professor Post-Tenure of Mathematics Assistant Professor of Mathematics
(On leave, fall)
David A. Vogan, PhD
Norbert Wiener Professor of Mathematics Aaron Pixton, PhD
(On leave, fall) Class of 1957 Career Development Professor
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Chenyang Xu, PhD
Professor of Mathematics Giulia Sacca, PhD
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Zhiwei Yun, PhD (On leave)
Professor of Mathematics
Yufei Zhao, PhD
Wei Zhang, PhD Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Mathematics

6   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Visiting Professors CLE Moore Instructors

Olivier Bernardi, PhD Tom Bachmann, PhD
Visiting Professor of Mathematics CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
(Spring)
Stéphane Benoist, PhD
Alissa Crans, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Professor of Mathematics
Kyeongsu Choi, PhD
Kyo Nishiyama, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Professor of Mathematics
Nicholas Edelen, PhD
Kasso Okoudjou, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Professor of Mathematics
Max D. Engelstein, PhD
Bruce Sagan, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Professor of Mathematics
Pei-Ken Hung, PhD
Guoliang Wang, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Professor of Mathematics
Benjamin Landon, PhD
Visiting Associate Professors CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Sebastian Cioaba, PhD Jianfeng Lin, PhD
Visiting Associate Professor of Mathematics CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Tamas Kalman, PhD Christos Mantoulidis, PhD
Visiting Associate Professor of Mathematics CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Rodrigo Ristow Montes, PhD Yu Pan, PhD
Visiting Associate Professor of Mathematics CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics

Visiting Assistant Professors Druv Ranganathan, PhD

Jonathan Bloom, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Casey Rodriguez, PhD
Jeffrey Oishi, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Visiting Assistant Professor of Mathematics
(Fall) Ananth Shankar, PhD
CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Adjunct Professors Junliang Shen, PhD
Henry Cohn, PhD CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Adjunct Professor of Mathematics
Luca Spolaor, PhD
Lecturers CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Jennifer French, PhD
Lecturer in Mathematics Matthew Stoffregen, PhD
CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Slava Gerovitch, PhD
Lecturer in Mathematics Chen Wan, PhD
CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Peter J. Kempthorne, PhD
Lecturer in Mathematics Junho Whang, PhD
CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics
Tanya Khovanova, PhD
Lecturer in Mathematics Zhouli Xu, PhD
CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics

Department of Mathematics   |   7
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Xueying Yu, PhD Erin Compaan, PhD

CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics Instructor of Pure Mathematics

Yiming Zhao, PhD

CLE Moore Instructor of Mathematics Research Staff

Instructors of Applied Mathematics Principal Research Scientists

Diego Cifuentes, PhD Andrew Victor Sutherland II, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics Principal Research Scientist of Mathematics

Yash Deshpande, PhD Research Scientists

Schramm Fellow Instructor Edgar Costa, PhD
Research Scientist of Mathematics
Matthew Durey, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics Maarten Derickx, PhD
Research Scientist of Mathematics
Asaf Ferber, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics Dohyeong Kim, PhD
Research Scientist of Mathematics
Zilin Jiang, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics David Roe, PhD
Research Scientist of Mathematics
Laszlo Lovasz, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics David I. Spivak, PhD
Research Scientist of Mathematics
Tyler Maunu, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professors Emeriti
Philip Pearce, PhD
Richard Dudley, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Christopher Rackauckas, PhD
Daniel Z. Freedman, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
(On leave, spring)
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Andrej Risteski, PhD
Harvey P. Greenspan, PhD
Norber Wiener Fellow
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Elina Robeva, PhD
Sigurdur Helgason, PhD
Instructor of Statistics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Henrik Ronellenfitsch, PhD
Steven L. Kleiman, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Pedro Sáenz Hervías, PhD
Daniel J. Kleitman, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Subhabrata Sen, PhD
James R. Munkres, PhD
Schramm Fellow Instructor
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
Stuart Thomson, PhD
Gerald E. Sacks, PhD
Instructor of Applied Mathematics
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics

Instructors of Pure Mathematics Isadore Manuel Singer, PhD

Zarathustra Brady, PhD Institute Professor Emeritus
Instructor of Pure Mathematics Professor Emeritus of Mathematics

8   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Richard P. Stanley, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Mathematics 18.02 Calculus
Prereq: Calculus I (GIR)
Harold Stark, PhD U (Fall, Spring)
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics 5-0-7 units. CALC II
Alar Toomre, PhD Credit cannot also be received for 18.022, 18.02A, CC.1802, CC.182A,
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics ES.1802, ES.182A

Calculus of several variables. Vector algebra in 3-space,

determinants, matrices. Vector-valued functions of one variable,
General Mathematics space motion. Scalar functions of several variables: partial
differentiation, gradient, optimization techniques. Double integrals
18.01 Calculus and line integrals in the plane; exact differentials and conservative
Prereq: None fields; Green's theorem and applications, triple integrals, line and
U (Fall, Spring) surface integrals in space, Divergence theorem, Stokes' theorem;
5-0-7 units. CALC I applications.
Credit cannot also be received for 18.01A, CC.181A, ES.1801, ES.181A Fall: W. Minicozzi. Spring: L. Guth
Differentiation and integration of functions of one variable,
with applications. Informal treatment of limits and continuity. 18.02A Calculus
Differentiation: definition, rules, application to graphing, rates, Prereq: Calculus I (GIR)
approximations, and extremum problems. Indefinite integration; U (Fall, IAP, Spring)
separable first-order differential equations. Definite integral; 5-0-7 units. CALC II
fundamental theorem of calculus. Applications of integration Credit cannot also be received for 18.02, 18.022, CC.1802, CC.182A,
to geometry and science. Elementary functions. Techniques of ES.1802, ES.182A
integration. Polar coordinates. L'Hopital's rule. Improper integrals. First half is taught during the last six weeks of the Fall term; covers
Infinite series: geometric, p-harmonic, simple comparison tests, material in the first half of 18.02 (through double integrals). Second
power series for some elementary functions. half of 18.02A can be taken either during IAP (daily lectures) or
Fall: P. Seidel. Spring: Information: J. W. Bush during the second half of the Spring term; it covers the remaining
material in 18.02.
18.01A Calculus D. Maulik
Prereq: Knowledge of differentiation and elementary integration
U (Fall; first half of term) 18.022 Calculus
5-0-7 units. CALC I Prereq: Calculus I (GIR)
Credit cannot also be received for 18.01, CC.181A, ES.1801, ES.181A U (Fall)
Six-week review of one-variable calculus, emphasizing material 5-0-7 units. CALC II
not on the high-school AB syllabus: integration techniques and Credit cannot also be received for 18.02, 18.02A, CC.1802, CC.182A,
applications, improper integrals, infinite series, applications to ES.1802, ES.182A
other topics, such as probability and statistics, as time permits. Calculus of several variables. Topics as in 18.02 but with more
Prerequisites: one year of high-school calculus or the equivalent, focus on mathematical concepts. Vector algebra, dot product,
with a score of 5 on the AB Calculus test (or the AB portion of the BC matrices, determinant. Functions of several variables, continuity,
test, or an equivalent score on a standard international exam), or differentiability, derivative. Parametrized curves, arc length,
equivalent college transfer credit, or a passing grade on the first half curvature, torsion. Vector fields, gradient, curl, divergence. Multiple
of the 18.01 advanced standing exam. integrals, change of variables, line integrals, surface integrals.
D. Maulik Stokes' theorem in one, two, and three dimensions.
A. Borodin

Department of Mathematics   |   9
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.03 Differential Equations 18.05 Introduction to Probability and Statistics

Prereq: None. Coreq: Calculus II (GIR) Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
U (Fall, Spring) U (Spring)
5-0-7 units. REST 4-0-8 units. REST
Credit cannot also be received for 18.032, CC.1803, ES.1803
Elementary introduction with applications. Basic probability
Study of differential equations, including modeling physical models. Combinatorics. Random variables. Discrete and continuous
systems. Solution of first-order ODEs by analytical, graphical, probability distributions. Statistical estimation and testing.
and numerical methods. Linear ODEs with constant coefficients. Confidence intervals. Introduction to linear regression.
Complex numbers and exponentials. Inhomogeneous equations: J. Orloff
polynomial, sinusoidal, and exponential inputs. Oscillations,
damping, resonance. Fourier series. Matrices, eigenvalues, 18.06 Linear Algebra
eigenvectors, diagonalization. First order linear systems: normal Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
modes, matrix exponentials, variation of parameters. Heat equation, U (Fall, Spring)
wave equation. Nonlinear autonomous systems: critical point 4-0-8 units. REST
analysis, phase plane diagrams. Credit cannot also be received for 18.700
Fall: J. Dunkel. Spring: D. Jerison
Basic subject on matrix theory and linear algebra, emphasizing
18.031 System Functions and the Laplace Transform topics useful in other disciplines, including systems of equations,
Prereq: None. Coreq: 18.03 vector spaces, determinants, eigenvalues, singular value
U (IAP, Spring; second half of term) decomposition, and positive definite matrices. Applications to
1-0-2 units least-squares approximations, stability of differential equations,
networks, Fourier transforms, and Markov processes. Uses linear
Studies basic continuous control theory as well as representation algebra software. Compared with 18.700, more emphasis on matrix
of functions in the complex frequency domain. Covers generalized algorithms and many applications.
functions, unit impulse response, and convolution; and Laplace S. G. Johnson, A. Edelman
transform, system (or transfer) function, and the pole diagram.
Includes examples from mechanical and electrical engineering. 18.062[J] Mathematics for Computer Science
P. Pearce Same subject as 6.042[J]
Prereq: Calculus I (GIR)
18.032 Differential Equations U (Fall, Spring)
Prereq: None. Coreq: Calculus II (GIR) 5-0-7 units. REST
U (Spring)
5-0-7 units. REST See description under subject 6.042[J].
Credit cannot also be received for 18.03, CC.1803, ES.1803 F. T. Leighton, Z. R. Abel, A. Moitra

Covers much of the same material as 18.03 with more emphasis on 18.065 Matrix Methods in Data Analysis, Signal Processing, and
theory. The point of view is rigorous and results are proven. Local Machine Learning
existence and uniqueness of solutions. Subject meets with 18.0651
T. Colding Prereq: 18.06
U (Spring)
18.04 Complex Variables with Applications 3-0-9 units
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
U (Spring) Reviews linear algebra with applications to life sciences, finance,
4-0-8 units engineering, and big data. Covers singular value decomposition,
Credit cannot also be received for 18.075, 18.0751 weighted least squares, signal and image processing, principal
component analysis, covariance and correlation matrices, directed
Complex algebra and functions; analyticity; contour integration, and undirected graphs, matrix factorizations, neural nets, machine
Cauchy's theorem; singularities, Taylor and Laurent series; residues, learning, and computations with large matrices.
evaluation of integrals; multivalued functions, potential theory in G. Strang
two dimensions; Fourier analysis, Laplace transforms, and partial
differential equations.
J. Dunkel

10   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.0651 Matrix Methods in Data Analysis, Signal Processing, 18.085 Computational Science and Engineering I
and Machine Learning Subject meets with 18.0851
Subject meets with 18.065 Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
Prereq: 18.06 U (Fall, Spring, Summer)
G (Spring) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
Review of linear algebra, applications to networks, structures,
Reviews linear algebra with applications to life sciences, finance, and estimation, finite difference and finite element solution of
engineering, and big data. Covers singular value decomposition, differential equations, Laplace's equation and potential flow,
weighted least squares, signal and image processing, principal boundary-value problems, Fourier series, discrete Fourier transform,
component analysis, covariance and correlation matrices, directed convolution. Frequent use of MATLAB in a wide range of scientific
and undirected graphs, matrix factorizations, neural nets, machine and engineering applications.
learning, and computations with large matrices. Students in Course Fall: W. G. Strang. Spring: L. Demanet
18 must register for the undergraduate version, 18.065.
G. Strang 18.0851 Computational Science and Engineering I
Subject meets with 18.085
18.075 Methods for Scientists and Engineers Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
Subject meets with 18.0751 G (Fall, Spring, Summer)
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and 18.03 3-0-9 units
U (Spring)
3-0-9 units Review of linear algebra, applications to networks, structures,
Credit cannot also be received for 18.04 and estimation, finite difference and finite element solution of
differential equations, Laplace's equation and potential flow,
Covers functions of a complex variable; calculus of residues. boundary-value problems, Fourier series, discrete Fourier transform,
Includes ordinary differential equations; Bessel and Legendre convolution. Frequent use of MATLAB in a wide range of scientific
functions; Sturm-Liouville theory; partial differential equations; heat and engineering applications. Students in Course 18 must register
equation; and wave equations. for the undergraduate version, 18.085.
H. Cheng Fall: W.G. Strang. Spring: L. Demanet

18.0751 Methods for Scientists and Engineers 18.086 Computational Science and Engineering II
Subject meets with 18.075 Subject meets with 18.0861
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and 18.03 Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
G (Spring) Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2019-2020: U (Spring)
Credit cannot also be received for 18.04 3-0-9 units

Covers functions of a complex variable; calculus of residues. Initial value problems: finite difference methods, accuracy and
Includes ordinary differential equations; Bessel and Legendre stability, heat equation, wave equations, conservation laws and
functions; Sturm-Liouville theory; partial differential equations; heat shocks, level sets, Navier-Stokes. Solving large systems: elimination
equation; and wave equations. Students in Courses 6, 8, 12, 18, and with reordering, iterative methods, preconditioning, multigrid,
22 must register for undergraduate version, 18.075. Krylov subspaces, conjugate gradients. Optimization and minimum
H. Cheng principles: weighted least squares, constraints, inverse problems,
calculus of variations, saddle point problems, linear programming,
duality, adjoint methods.
Information: W. G. Strang

Department of Mathematics   |   11
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.0861 Computational Science and Engineering II 18.098 Internship in Mathematics

Subject meets with 18.086 Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032) U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Units arranged [P/D/F]
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) Can be repeated for credit.
3-0-9 units
Provides academic credit for students pursuing internships to gain
Initial value problems: finite difference methods, accuracy and practical experience in the applications of mathematical concepts
stability, heat equation, wave equations, conservation laws and and methods.
shocks, level sets, Navier-Stokes. Solving large systems: elimination Information: J. W. Bush
with reordering, iterative methods, preconditioning, multigrid,
Krylov subspaces, conjugate gradients. Optimization and minimum 18.099 Independent Study
principles: weighted least squares, constraints, inverse problems, Prereq: Permission of instructor
calculus of variations, saddle point problems, linear programming, U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
duality, adjoint methods. Students in Course 18 must register for the Units arranged
undergraduate version, 18.086. Can be repeated for credit.
Information: W. G. Strang
Studies (during IAP) or special individual reading (during regular
18.089 Review of Mathematics terms). Arranged in consultation with individual faculty members
Prereq: Permission of instructor and subject to departmental approval.
G (Summer) Information: J. W. Bush
5-0-7 units
Analysis
One-week review of one-variable calculus (18.01), followed by
concentrated study covering multivariable calculus (18.02), two 18.1001 Real Analysis
hours per day for five weeks. Primarily for graduate students in Subject meets with 18.100A
Course 2N. Degree credit allowed only in special circumstances. Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
Information: J. W. Bush G (Fall, Spring)
3-0-9 units
18.094[J] Teaching College-Level Science and Engineering Credit cannot also be received for 18.100B, 18.100P, 18.100Q
Same subject as 1.95[J], 5.95[J], 7.59[J], 8.395[J]
Subject meets with 2.978 Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of
Prereq: None sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral,
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches
2-0-2 units understanding and construction of proofs. Proofs and definitions are
less abstract than in 18.100B. Gives applications where possible.
See description under subject 5.95[J]. Concerned primarily with the real line. Students in Course 18 must
J. Rankin register for undergraduate version 18.100A.
Fall: A. P. Mattuck, Spring: L. Spolaor
18.095 Mathematics Lecture Series
Prereq: Calculus I (GIR)
U (IAP)
2-0-4 units
Can be repeated for credit.

Ten lectures by mathematics faculty members on interesting

topics from both classical and modern mathematics. All lectures
accessible to students with calculus background and an interest in
mathematics. At each lecture, reading and exercises are assigned.
Students prepare these for discussion in a weekly problem session.
Information: J. W. Bush

12   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.1002 Real Analysis 18.100P Real Analysis

Subject meets with 18.100B Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) U (Spring)
G (Fall, Spring) 4-0-11 units
3-0-9 units Credit cannot also be received for 18.1001, 18.100A, 18.100B,
Credit cannot also be received for 18.100A, 18.100Q 18.100Q

Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of
sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral, sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral,
sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit
operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches
understanding and construction of proofs. More demanding than understanding and construction of proofs. Proofs and definitions are
18.100A, for students with more mathematical maturity. Places more less abstract than in 18.100B. Gives applications where possible.
emphasis on point-set topology and n-space. Students in Course 18 Concerned primarily with the real line. Includes instruction and
must register for undergraduate version 18.100B. practice in written communication. Enrollment limited.
Fall: J.-L. Kim, Spring: C. Rodriguez K. Okoudjou

18.100A Real Analysis 18.100Q Real Analysis

Subject meets with 18.1001 Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) U (Fall)
U (Fall, Spring) 4-0-11 units
3-0-9 units Credit cannot also be received for 18.1001, 18.1002, 18.100A,
Credit cannot also be received for 18.100B, 18.100P, 18.100Q 18.100B, 18.100P

Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of
sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral, sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral,
sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit
operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches
understanding and construction of proofs. Proofs and definitions are understanding and construction of proofs. More demanding than
less abstract than in 18.100B. Gives applications where possible. 18.100A, for students with more mathematical maturity. Places more
Concerned primarily with the real line. emphasis on point-set topology and n-space. Includes instruction
Fall: A. P. Mattuck. Spring: L. Spolaor and practice in written communication. Enrollment limited.
M. Engelstein
18.100B Real Analysis
Subject meets with 18.1002 18.101 Analysis and Manifolds
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) Subject meets with 18.1011
U (Fall, Spring) Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
3-0-9 units 18.100Q)
Credit cannot also be received for 18.100A, 18.100Q U (Fall)
3-0-9 units
Covers fundamentals of mathematical analysis: convergence of
sequences and series, continuity, differentiability, Riemann integral, Introduction to the theory of manifolds: vector fields and densities
sequences and series of functions, uniformity, interchange of limit on manifolds, integral calculus in the manifold setting and the
operations. Shows the utility of abstract concepts and teaches manifold version of the divergence theorem. 18.901 helpful but not
understanding and construction of proofs. More demanding than required.
18.100A, for students with more mathematical maturity. Places more V. W. Guillemin
emphasis on point-set topology and n-space.
Fall: J.-L. Kim. Spring: C. Rodriguez

Department of Mathematics   |   13
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.1011 Analysis and Manifolds 18.1031 Fourier Analysis: Theory and Applications
Subject meets with 18.101 Subject meets with 18.103
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
18.100Q) 18.100Q)
G (Fall) G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Introduction to the theory of manifolds: vector fields and densities Roughly half the subject devoted to the theory of the Lebesgue
on manifolds, integral calculus in the manifold setting and the integral with applications to probability, and half to Fourier series
manifold version of the divergence theorem. 18.9011 helpful but not and Fourier integrals. Students in Course 18 must register for the
required. Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate undergraduate version, 18.103.
version, 18.101. T. Collins
V. W. Guillemin
18.104 Seminar in Analysis
18.102 Introduction to Functional Analysis Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or 18.100Q
Subject meets with 18.1021 U (Fall)
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or 3-0-9 units
18.100Q)
U (Spring) Students present and discuss material from books or journals.
3-0-9 units Topics vary from year to year. Instruction and practice in written and
oral communication provided. Enrollment limited.
Normed spaces, completeness, functionals, Hahn-Banach theorem, G. Staffilani
duality, operators. Lebesgue measure, measurable functions,
integrability, completeness of L-p spaces. Hilbert space. Compact, 18.112 Functions of a Complex Variable
Hilbert-Schmidt and trace class operators. Spectral theorem. Subject meets with 18.1121
P. Etingof Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
18.100Q)
18.1021 Introduction to Functional Analysis U (Fall)
Subject meets with 18.102 3-0-9 units
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
18.100Q) Studies the basic properties of analytic functions of one complex
G (Spring) variable. Conformal mappings and the Poincare model of non-
3-0-9 units Euclidean geometry. Cauchy-Goursat theorem and Cauchy integral
formula. Taylor and Laurent decompositions. Singularities,
Normed spaces, completeness, functionals, Hahn-Banach theorem, residues and computation of integrals. Harmonic functions and
duality, operators. Lebesgue measure, measurable functions, Dirichlet's problem for the Laplace equation. The partial fractions
integrability, completeness of L-p spaces. Hilbert space. Compact, decomposition. Infinite series and infinite product expansions. The
Hilbert-Schmidt and trace class operators. Spectral theorem. Gamma function. The Riemann mapping theorem. Elliptic functions.
Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate version, A. Borodin
18.102.
P. Etingof

18.103 Fourier Analysis: Theory and Applications

Subject meets with 18.1031
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
18.100Q)
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units

Roughly half the subject devoted to the theory of the Lebesgue

integral with applications to probability, and half to Fourier series
and Fourier integrals.
T. Collins

14   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.1121 Functions of a Complex Variable 18.125 Measure Theory and Analysis

Subject meets with 18.112 Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or 18.100Q
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or G (Spring)
18.100Q) 3-0-9 units
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units Provides a rigorous introduction to Lebesgue's theory of measure
and integration. Covers material that is essential in analysis,
Studies the basic properties of analytic functions of one complex probability theory, and differential geometry.
variable. Conformal mappings and the Poincare model of non- N. Sun
Euclidean geometry. Cauchy-Goursat theorem and Cauchy integral
formula. Taylor and Laurent decompositions. Singularities, 18.137 Topics in Geometric Partial Differential Equations
residues and computation of integrals. Harmonic functions and Prereq: Permission of instructor
Dirichlet's problem for the Laplace equation. The partial fractions Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall)
decomposition. Infinite series and infinite product expansions. The Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
Gamma function. The Riemann mapping theorem. Elliptic functions. 3-0-9 units
Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate version, Can be repeated for credit.
18.112.
A. Borodin Topics vary from year to year.
T. Colding
18.116 Riemann Surfaces
Prereq: 18.112 18.152 Introduction to Partial Differential Equations
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Subject meets with 18.1521
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
3-0-9 units 18.100Q)
U (Spring)
Riemann surfaces, uniformization, Riemann-Roch Theorem. Theory 3-0-9 units
of elliptic functions and modular forms. Some applications, such as
to number theory. Introduces three main types of partial differential equations:
Information: R. B. Melrose diffusion, elliptic, and hyperbolic. Includes mathematical tools,
real-world examples and applications, such as the Black-Scholes
18.117 Topics in Several Complex Variables equation, the European options problem, water waves, scalar
Prereq: 18.112 and 18.965 conservation laws, first order equations and traffic problems.
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered K. Choi
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units 18.1521 Introduction to Partial Differential Equations
Can be repeated for credit. Subject meets with 18.152
Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
Harmonic theory on complex manifolds, Hodge decomposition 18.100Q)
theorem, Hard Lefschetz theorem. Vanishing theorems. Theory of G (Spring)
Stein manifolds. As time permits students also study holomorphic 3-0-9 units
vector bundles on Kahler manifolds.
B. Poonen Introduces three main types of partial differential equations:
diffusion, elliptic, and hyperbolic. Includes mathematical tools,
18.118 Topics in Analysis real-world examples and applications, such as the Black-Scholes
Prereq: Permission of instructor equation, the European options problem, water waves, scalar
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered conservation laws, first order equations and traffic problems.
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate version,
3-0-9 units 18.152.
Can be repeated for credit. K. Choi

Topics vary from year to year.

L. Guth

Department of Mathematics   |   15
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.155 Differential Analysis I 18.175 Theory of Probability

Prereq: 18.102 or 18.103 Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or 18.100Q
G (Fall) G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

First part of a two-subject sequence. Review of Lebesgue integration. Sums of independent random variables, central limit phenomena,
Lp spaces. Distributions. Fourier transform. Sobolev spaces. infinitely divisible laws, Levy processes, Brownian motion,
Spectral theorem, discrete and continuous spectrum. Homogeneous conditioning, and martingales. Prior exposure to probability (e.g.,
distributions. Fundamental solutions for elliptic, hyperbolic and 18.600) recommended.
parabolic differential operators. Recommended prerequisite: 18.112. V. Gorin
T. S. Mrowka
18.176 Stochastic Calculus
18.156 Differential Analysis II Prereq: 18.175
Prereq: 18.155 G (Spring)
G (Spring) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
Introduction to stochastic processes, building on the fundamental
Second part of a two-subject sequence. Covers variable coefficient example of Brownian motion. Topics include Brownian motion,
elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic partial differential equations. continuous parameter martingales, Ito's theory of stochastic
G. Staffilani differential equations, Markov processes and partial differential
equations, and may also include local time and excursion theory.
18.157 Introduction to Microlocal Analysis Students should have familiarity with Lebesgue integration and its
Prereq: 18.155 application to probability.
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring) D. W. Stroock
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
3-0-9 units 18.177 Topics in Stochastic Processes
Prereq: 18.175
The semi-classical theory of partial differential equations. G (Fall, Spring)
Discussion of Pseudodifferential operators, Fourier integral 3-0-9 units
operators, asymptotic solutions of partial differential equations, Can be repeated for credit.
and the spectral theory of Schroedinger operators from the semi-
classical perspective. Heavy emphasis placed on the symplectic Topics vary from year to year.
geometric underpinnings of this subject. Fall: N. Sun, Spring: V. Gorin
P. Hintz
18.199 Graduate Analysis Seminar
18.158 Topics in Differential Equations Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: 18.157 G (Fall)
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Not offered regularly; consult department
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units Can be repeated for credit.
Can be repeated for credit.
Studies original papers in differential analysis and differential
Topics vary from year to year. equations. Intended for first- and second-year graduate students.
G. Staffilani Permission must be secured in advance.
V. W. Guillemin

16   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Discrete Applied Mathematics 18.212 Algebraic Combinatorics

Prereq: 18.701 or 18.703
18.200 Principles of Discrete Applied Mathematics U (Spring)
Prereq: None. Coreq: 18.06 3-0-9 units
U (Spring) Applications of algebra to combinatorics. Topics include walks
4-0-11 units in graphs, the Radon transform, groups acting on posets, Young
Credit cannot also be received for 18.200A tableaux, electrical networks.
Study of illustrative topics in discrete applied mathematics, A. Postnikov
including probability theory, information theory, coding theory,
secret codes, generating functions, and linear programming. 18.217 Combinatorial Theory
Instruction and practice in written communication provided. Prereq: Permission of instructor
Enrollment limited. G (Fall)
P. W. Shor, A. Ferber 3-0-9 units
Can be repeated for credit.
18.200A Principles of Discrete Applied Mathematics Content varies from year to year.
Prereq: None. Coreq: 18.06 A. Postnikov
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units 18.218 Topics in Combinatorics
Credit cannot also be received for 18.200 Prereq: Permission of instructor
Study of illustrative topics in discrete applied mathematics, G (Spring)
including probability theory, information theory, coding theory, 3-0-9 units
secret codes, generating functions, and linear programming. Can be repeated for credit.
A. Risteski Topics vary from year to year.
Y. Zhao
18.204 Undergraduate Seminar in Discrete Mathematics
Prereq: ((6.042[J] or 18.200) and (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701)) or 18.219 Seminar in Combinatorics
permission of instructor Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, Spring) G (Fall)
3-0-9 units Not offered regularly; consult department
Seminar in combinatorics, graph theory, and discrete mathematics 3-0-9 units
in general. Participants read and present papers from recent Can be repeated for credit.
mathematics literature. Instruction and practice in written and oral Content varies from year to year. Readings from current research
communication provided. Enrollment limited. papers in combinatorics. Topics to be chosen and presented by the
A. Ferber, Z. Jiang, L. Lovasz class.
Information: R. P. Stanley
18.211 Combinatorial Analysis
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701)
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units

Combinatorial problems and methods for their solution.

Enumeration, generating functions, recurrence relations,
construction of bijections. Introduction to graph theory. Prior
experience with abstraction and proofs is helpful.
Y. Zhao

Department of Mathematics   |   17
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

Continuous Applied Mathematics 18.306 Advanced Partial Differential Equations with

Applications
18.300 Principles of Continuum Applied Mathematics Prereq: (18.03 or 18.032) and (18.04, 18.075, or 18.112)
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032) Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
U (Spring) Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Covers fundamental concepts in continuous applied mathematics. Concepts and techniques for partial differential equations,
Applications from traffic flow, fluids, elasticity, granular flows, etc. especially nonlinear. Diffusion, dispersion and other phenomena.
Also covers continuum limit; conservation laws, quasi-equilibrium; Initial and boundary value problems. Normal mode analysis,
kinematic waves; characteristics, simple waves, shocks; diffusion Green's functions, and transforms. Conservation laws, kinematic
(linear and nonlinear); numerical solution of wave equations; waves, hyperbolic equations, characteristics shocks, simple waves.
finite differences, consistency, stability; discrete and fast Fourier Geometrical optics, caustics. Free-boundary problems. Dimensional
transforms; spectral methods; transforms and series (Fourier, analysis. Singular perturbation, boundary layers, homogenization.
Laplace). Additional topics may include sonic booms, Mach cone, Variational methods. Solitons. Applications from fluid dynamics,
caustics, lattices, dispersion and group velocity. Uses MATLAB materials science, optics, traffic flow, etc.
computing environment. R. R. Rosales
S. Thomson
18.327 Topics in Applied Mathematics
18.303 Linear Partial Differential Equations: Analysis and Prereq: Permission of instructor
Numerics Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Prereq: 18.06 or 18.700 Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
U (Spring) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units Can be repeated for credit.

Provides students with the basic analytical and computational Topics vary from year to year.
tools of linear partial differential equations (PDEs) for practical L. Demanet
applications in science and engineering, including heat/diffusion,
wave, and Poisson equations. Analytics emphasize the viewpoint of 18.330 Introduction to Numerical Analysis
linear algebra and the analogy with finite matrix problems. Studies Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
operator adjoints and eigenproblems, series solutions, Green's U (Spring)
functions, and separation of variables. Numerics focus on finite- 3-0-9 units
difference and finite-element techniques to reduce PDEs to matrix Basic techniques for the efficient numerical solution of problems in
problems, including stability and convergence analysis and implicit/ science and engineering. Root finding, interpolation, approximation
explicit timestepping. Some programming required for homework of functions, integration, differential equations, direct and iterative
and final project. methods in linear algebra. Knowledge of programming in a language
C. Rackauckas such as MATLAB, Python, or Julia is helpful.
L. Demanet
18.305 Advanced Analytic Methods in Science and Engineering
Prereq: 18.04, 18.075, or 18.112
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units

Covers expansion around singular points: the WKB method on

ordinary and partial differential equations; the method of stationary
phase and the saddle point method; the two-scale method and the
method of renormalized perturbation; singular perturbation and
boundary-layer techniques; WKB method on partial differential
equations.
H. Cheng

18   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.335[J] Introduction to Numerical Methods 18.338 Eigenvalues of Random Matrices

Same subject as 6.337[J] Prereq: 18.701 or permission of instructor
Prereq: 18.06, 18.700, or 18.701 Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
G (Spring) Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Advanced introduction to numerical analysis: accuracy and Covers the modern main results of random matrix theory as it is
efficiency of numerical algorithms. In-depth coverage of sparse- currently applied in engineering and science. Topics include matrix
matrix/iterative and dense-matrix algorithms in numerical linear calculus for finite and infinite matrices (e.g., Wigner's semi-circle
algebra (for linear systems and eigenproblems). Floating-point and Marcenko-Pastur laws), free probability, random graphs,
arithmetic, backwards error analysis, conditioning, and stability. combinatorial methods, matrix statistics, stochastic operators,
Other computational topics (e.g., numerical integration or nonlinear passage to the continuum limit, moment methods, and compressed
optimization) may also be surveyed.  Final project involves some sensing. Knowledge of MATLAB hepful, but not required.
programming. A. Edelman
S. Johnson
18.352[J] Nonlinear Dynamics: The Natural Environment
18.336[J] Fast Methods for Partial Differential and Integral Same subject as 12.009[J]
Equations Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Physics I (GIR); Coreq: 18.03
Same subject as 6.335[J] U (Spring)
Prereq: 6.336[J], 16.920[J], 18.085, 18.335[J], or permission of 3-0-9 units
instructor
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered See description under subject 12.009[J].
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) D. H. Rothman
3-0-9 units
18.353[J] Nonlinear Dynamics: Chaos
Unified introduction to the theory and practice of modern, near Same subject as 2.050[J], 12.006[J]
linear-time, numerical methods for large-scale partial-differential Prereq: Physics II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
and integral equations. Topics include preconditioned iterative U (Fall)
methods; generalized Fast Fourier Transform and other butterfly- 3-0-9 units
based methods; multiresolution approaches, such as multigrid
algorithms and hierarchical low-rank matrix decompositions; See description under subject 12.006[J].
and low and high frequency Fast Multipole Methods. Example H. Ronellenfitsch
applications include aircraft design, cardiovascular system
modeling, electronic structure computation, and tomographic 18.354[J] Nonlinear Dynamics: Continuum Systems
imaging. Same subject as 1.062[J], 12.207[J]
L. Demanet Subject meets with 18.3541
Prereq: Physics II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032)
18.337[J] Numerical Computing and Interactive Software U (Spring)
Same subject as 6.338[J] 3-0-9 units
Prereq: 18.06, 18.700, or 18.701 General mathematical principles of continuum systems. From
G (Fall) microscopic to macroscopic descriptions in the form of linear
3-0-9 units or nonlinear (partial) differential equations. Exact solutions,
Interdisciplinary introduction to computing with Julia. Covers dimensional analysis, calculus of variations and singular
scientific computing and data analysis problems. Combines perturbation methods. Stability, waves and pattern formation in
knowledge from computer science and computational science continuum systems. Subject matter illustrated using natural fluid
illustrating Julia's approach to scientific computing. Sample and solid systems found, for example, in geophysics and biology.
scientific computing topics include dense and sparse linear algebra, P. Pearce
Fourier transforms, data handling, machine learning, and N-body
problems. Provides direct experience with the modern realities of
programming supercomputers, GPUs, and multicores in a high-level
language.
A. Edelman

Department of Mathematics   |   19
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.3541 Nonlinear Dynamics: Continuum Systems 18.358[J] Nonlinear Dynamics and Turbulence
Subject meets with 1.062[J], 12.207[J], 18.354[J] Same subject as 1.686[J], 2.033[J]
Prereq: Physics II (GIR) and (18.03 or 18.032) Subject meets with 1.068
G (Spring) Prereq: 1.060A
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
General mathematical principles of continuum systems. From 3-2-7 units
microscopic to macroscopic descriptions in the form of linear
or nonlinear (partial) differential equations. Exact solutions, See description under subject 1.686[J].
dimensional analysis, calculus of variations and singular L. Bourouiba
perturbation methods. Stability, waves and pattern formation in
continuum systems. Subject matter illustrated using natural fluid 18.367 Waves and Imaging
and solid systems found, for example, in geophysics and biology. Prereq: Permission of instructor
Students in Courses 1, 12, and 18 must register for undergraduate Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
version, 18.354[J]. Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall)
P. Pearce 3-0-9 units

18.355 Fluid Mechanics The mathematics of inverse problems involving waves, with
Prereq: 2.25, 12.800, or 18.354[J] examples taken from reflection seismology, synthetic aperture
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall) radar, and computerized tomography. Suitable for graduate
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered students from all departments who have affinities with applied
3-0-9 units mathematics. Topics include acoustic, elastic, electromagnetic
wave equations; geometrical optics; scattering series and inversion;
Topics include the development of Navier-Stokes equations, inviscid migration and backprojection; adjoint-state methods; Radon and
flows, boundary layers, lubrication theory, Stokes flows, and surface curvilinear Radon transforms; microlocal analysis of imaging;
tension. Fundamental concepts illustrated through problems drawn optimization, regularization, and sparse regression.
from a variety of areas, including geophysics, biology, and the L. Demanet
dynamics of sport. Particular emphasis on the interplay between
dimensional analysis, scaling arguments, and theory. Includes 18.369[J] Mathematical Methods in Nanophotonics
classroom and laboratory demonstrations. Same subject as 8.315[J]
J. W. Bush Prereq: 8.07, 18.303, or permission of instructor
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
18.357 Interfacial Phenomena Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
Prereq: 2.25, 12.800, 18.354[J], 18.355, or permission of instructor 3-0-9 units
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) High-level approaches to understanding complex optical media,
3-0-9 units structured on the scale of the wavelength, that are not generally
analytically soluable. The basis for understanding optical
Fluid systems dominated by the influence of interfacial tension. phenomena such as photonic crystals and band gaps, anomalous
Elucidates the roles of curvature pressure and Marangoni stress in diffraction, mechanisms for optical confinement, optical fibers (new
a variety of hydrodynamic settings. Particular attention to drops and old), nonlinearities, and integrated optical devices. Methods
and bubbles, soap films and minimal surfaces, wetting phenomena, covered include linear algebra and eigensystems for Maxwell's
water-repellency, surfactants, Marangoni flows, capillary equations, symmetry groups and representation theory, Bloch's
origami and contact line dynamics. Theoretical developments are theorem, numerical eigensolver methods, time and frequency-
accompanied by classroom demonstrations. Highlights the role of domain computation, perturbation theory, and coupled-mode
surface tension in biology. theories.
J. W. Bush S. G. Johnson

20   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.376[J] Wave Propagation 18.385[J] Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos

Same subject as 1.138[J], 2.062[J] Same subject as 2.036[J]
Prereq: 2.003[J] and 18.075 Prereq: 18.03 or 18.032
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring) Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall)
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

See description under subject 2.062[J]. Introduction to the theory of nonlinear dynamical systems with
T. R. Akylas, R. R. Rosales applications from science and engineering. Local and global
existence of solutions, dependence on initial data and parameters.
18.377[J] Nonlinear Dynamics and Waves Elementary bifurcations, normal forms. Phase plane, limit cycles,
Same subject as 1.685[J], 2.034[J] relaxation oscillations, Poincare-Bendixson theory. Floquet
Prereq: Permission of instructor theory. Poincare maps. Averaging. Near-equilibrium dynamics.
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Synchronization. Introduction to chaos. Universality. Strange
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) attractors. Lorenz and Rossler systems. Hamiltonian dynamics and
3-0-9 units KAM theory. Uses MATLAB computing environment.
R. R. Rosales
A unified treatment of nonlinear oscillations and wave phenomena
with applications to mechanical, optical, geophysical, fluid, 18.397 Mathematical Methods in Physics
electrical and flow-structure interaction problems. Nonlinear Prereq: 18.745 or some familiarity with Lie theory
free and forced vibrations; nonlinear resonances; self-excited Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
oscillations; lock-in phenomena. Nonlinear dispersive and Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall)
nondispersive waves; resonant wave interactions; propagation of 3-0-9 units
wave pulses and nonlinear Schrodinger equation. Nonlinear long Can be repeated for credit.
waves and breaking; theory of characteristics; the Korteweg-de Vries
equation; solitons and solitary wave interactions. Stability of shear Content varies from year to year. Recent developments in quantum
flows. Some topics and applications may vary from year to year. field theory require mathematical techniques not usually covered in
R. R. Rosales standard graduate subjects.
V. G. Kac
18.384 Undergraduate Seminar in Physical Mathematics
Prereq: 12.006[J], 18.300, 18.354[J], or permission of instructor
Theoretical Computer Science
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units 18.400[J] Automata, Computability, and Complexity
Covers the mathematical modeling of physical systems, with Same subject as 6.045[J]
emphasis on the reading and presentation of papers. Addresses Prereq: 6.042[J]
a broad range of topics, with particular focus on macroscopic U (Spring)
physics and continuum systems: fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, 4-0-8 units
and biophysics. Instruction and practice in written and oral See description under subject 6.045[J].
communication provided. Enrollment limited. R. Williams, R. Rubinfeld
P. Saenz

Department of Mathematics   |   21
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.404 Theory of Computation 18.408 Topics in Theoretical Computer Science

Subject meets with 6.840[J], 18.4041[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: 6.042[J] or 18.200 Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
U (Fall) Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
4-0-8 units 3-0-9 units
Can be repeated for credit.
A more extensive and theoretical treatment of the material in
6.045[J]/18.400[J], emphasizing computability and computational Study of areas of current interest in theoretical computer science.
complexity theory. Regular and context-free languages. Decidable Topics vary from term to term.
and undecidable problems, reducibility, recursive function theory. A. Moitra, J. A. Kelner
Time and space measures on computation, completeness, hierarchy
theorems, inherently complex problems, oracles, probabilistic 18.410[J] Design and Analysis of Algorithms
computation, and interactive proof systems. Same subject as 6.046[J]
M. Sipser Prereq: 6.006
U (Fall, Spring)
18.4041[J] Theory of Computation 4-0-8 units
Same subject as 6.840[J]
Subject meets with 18.404 See description under subject 6.046[J].
Prereq: 6.042[J] or 18.200 E. Demaine, M. Goemans
G (Fall)
4-0-8 units 18.415[J] Advanced Algorithms
Same subject as 6.854[J]
A more extensive and theoretical treatment of the material in Prereq: 6.046[J] and (6.041B, 6.042[J], or 18.600)
6.045[J]/18.400[J], emphasizing computability and computational G (Fall)
complexity theory. Regular and context-free languages. Decidable 5-0-7 units
and undecidable problems, reducibility, recursive function theory.
Time and space measures on computation, completeness, hierarchy See description under subject 6.854[J].
theorems, inherently complex problems, oracles, probabilistic A. Moitra, D. R. Karger
computation, and interactive proof systems. Students in Course 18
must register for the undergraduate version, 18.404. 18.416[J] Randomized Algorithms
M. Sipser Same subject as 6.856[J]
Prereq: 6.041B, 6.042[J], or 6.854[J]
18.405[J] Advanced Complexity Theory Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring)
Same subject as 6.841[J] Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
Prereq: 18.404 5-0-7 units
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered See description under subject 6.856[J].
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) D. R. Karger
3-0-9 units

Current research topics in computational complexity theory. 18.417 Introduction to Computational Molecular Biology
Nondeterministic, alternating, probabilistic, and parallel Prereq: 6.006, 6.01, or permission of instructor
computation models. Boolean circuits. Complexity classes and G (Fall)
complete sets. The polynomial-time hierarchy. Interactive proof Not offered regularly; consult department
systems. Relativization. Definitions of randomness. Pseudo- 3-0-9 units
randomness and derandomizations. Interactive proof systems and Introduces the basic computational methods used to model and
probabilistically checkable proofs. predict the structure of biomolecules (proteins, DNA, RNA). Covers
R. Williams classical techniques in the field (molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo,
dynamic programming) to more recent advances in analyzing and
predicting RNA and protein structure, ranging from Hidden Markov
Models and 3-D lattice models to attribute Grammars and tree
Grammars.
Information: B. Berger

22   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.418[J] Topics in Computational Molecular Biology 18.435[J] Quantum Computation

Same subject as HST.504[J] Same subject as 2.111[J], 8.370[J]
Prereq: 6.047, 18.417, or permission of instructor Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring) G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units
Can be repeated for credit.
Provides an introduction to the theory and practice of quantum
Covers current research topics in computational molecular biology. computation. Topics covered: physics of information processing;
Recent research papers presented from leading conferences such as quantum algorithms including the factoring algorithm and
the International Conference on Computational Molecular Biology Grover's search algorithm; quantum error correction; quantum
(RECOMB) and the Conference on Intelligent Systems for Molecular communication and cryptography. Knowledge of quantum
Biology (ISMB). Topics include original research (both theoretical mechanics helpful but not required.
and experimental) in comparative genomics, sequence and structure I. Chuang, A. Harrow, S. Lloyd, P. Shor
analysis, molecular evolution, proteomics, gene expression,
transcriptional regulation, biological networks, drug discovery, 18.436[J] Quantum Information Science
and privacy. Recent research by course participants also covered. Same subject as 6.443[J], 8.371[J]
Participants will be expected to present individual projects to the Prereq: 18.435[J]
class. Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
B. Berger Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
18.424 Seminar in Information Theory
Prereq: (6.041B, 18.05, or 18.600) and (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) See description under subject 8.371[J].
U (Spring) I. Chuang, A. Harrow
3-0-9 units
18.437[J] Distributed Algorithms
Considers various topics in information theory, including data Same subject as 6.852[J]
compression, Shannon's Theorems, and error-correcting codes. Prereq: 6.046[J]
Students present and discuss the subject matter. Instruction and Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall)
practice in written and oral communication provided. Enrollment Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
limited. 3-0-9 units
S. Sen
See description under subject 6.852[J].
18.425[J] Cryptography and Cryptanalysis N. A. Lynch
Same subject as 6.875[J]
Prereq: 6.046[J] 18.453 Combinatorial Optimization
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Subject meets with 18.4531
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) Prereq: 18.06, 18.700, or 18.701
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2018-2019: U (Spring)
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
See description under subject 6.875[J]. 3-0-9 units
S. Goldwasser, S. Micali, V. Vaikuntanathan
Thorough treatment of linear programming and combinatorial
18.434 Seminar in Theoretical Computer Science optimization. Topics include matching theory, network flow, matroid
Prereq: 6.046[J] optimization, and how to deal with NP-hard optimization problems.
U (Fall) Prior exposure to discrete mathematics (such as 18.200) helpful.
3-0-9 units Z. Brady

Topics vary from year to year. Students present and discuss

the subject matter. Instruction and practice in written and oral
communication provided. Enrollment limited.
Z. Remscrim

Department of Mathematics   |   23
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.4531 Combinatorial Optimization 18.510 Introduction to Mathematical Logic and Set Theory
Subject meets with 18.453 Prereq: None
Prereq: 18.06, 18.700, or 18.701 Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring) Acad Year 2019-2020: U (Fall)
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
Propositional and predicate logic. Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory.
Thorough treatment of linear programming and combinatorial Ordinals and cardinals. Axiom of choice and transfinite induction.
optimization. Topics include matching theory, network flow, matroid Elementary model theory: completeness, compactness, and
optimization, and how to deal with NP-hard optimization problems. Lowenheim-Skolem theorems. Godel's incompleteness theorem.
Prior exposure to discrete mathematics (such as 18.200) helpful. H. Cohn
Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate version,
18.453. 18.515 Mathematical Logic
Z. Brady Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
18.455 Advanced Combinatorial Optimization Not offered regularly; consult department
Prereq: 18.453 or permission of instructor 3-0-9 units
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) More rigorous treatment of basic mathematical logic, Godel's
3-0-9 units theorems, and Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory. First-order logic.
Models and satisfaction. Deduction and proof. Soundness and
Advanced treatment of combinatorial optimization with an emphasis completeness. Compactness and its consequences. Quantifier
on combinatorial aspects. Non-bipartite matchings, submodular elimination. Recursive sets and functions. Incompleteness and
functions, matroid intersection/union, matroid matching, undecidability. Ordinals and cardinals. Set-theoretic formalization of
submodular flows, multicommodity flows, packing and connectivity mathematics.
problems, and other recent developments. Information: B. Poonen
M. X. Goemans
Probability and Statistics
18.456[J] Algebraic Techniques and Semidefinite Optimization
(New) 18.600 Probability and Random Variables
Same subject as 6.256[J] Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
Prereq: 6.251[J] or 15.093[J] U (Fall, Spring)
G (Spring) 4-0-8 units. REST
3-0-9 units Credit cannot also be received for 15.079, 15.0791
See description under subject 6.256[J]. Probability spaces, random variables, distribution functions.
P. Parrilo Binomial, geometric, hypergeometric, Poisson distributions.
Uniform, exponential, normal, gamma and beta distributions.
Logic Conditional probability, Bayes theorem, joint distributions.
Chebyshev inequality, law of large numbers, and central limit
18.504 Seminar in Logic theorem. Credit cannot also be received for 6.041A or 6.041B.
Prereq: (18.06, 18.510, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, J. A. Kelner, S. Sheffield
18.100P, or 18.100Q)
Acad Year 2018-2019: U (Spring) 18.615 Introduction to Stochastic Processes
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered Prereq: 6.041B or 18.600
3-0-9 units G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Students present and discuss the subject matter taken from current
journals or books. Topics vary from year to year. Instruction and Basics of stochastic processes. Markov chains, Poisson processes,
practice in written and oral communication provided. Enrollment random walks, birth and death processes, Brownian motion.
limited. E. Mossel
H. Cohn

24   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.642 Topics in Mathematics with Applications in Finance 18.657 Topics in Statistics

Prereq: 18.03, 18.06, and (18.05 or 18.600) Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall) Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
4-0-11 units Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Introduction to mathematical concepts and techniques used in Can be repeated for credit.
finance. Lectures focusing on linear algebra, probability, statistics,
stochastic processes, and numerical methods are interspersed Topics vary from term to term.
with lectures by financial sector professionals illustrating the P. Rigollet
corresponding application in the industry. Prior knowledge of
economics or finance helpful but not required. Instruction and
Algebra and Number Theory
practice in written communication provided. Limited to 30.
P. Kempthorne, V. Strela, J. Xia 18.700 Linear Algebra
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR)
18.650[J] Fundamentals of Statistics U (Fall)
Same subject as IDS.014[J] 3-0-9 units. REST
Subject meets with 18.6501 Credit cannot also be received for 18.06
Prereq: 6.041B or 18.600
U (Fall, Spring) Vector spaces, systems of linear equations, bases, linear
4-0-8 units independence, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues, inner products,
Credit cannot also be received for 15.075[J], IDS.013[J] quadratic forms, and canonical forms of matrices. More emphasis on
theory and proofs than in 18.06.
A broad treatment of statistics, concentrating on specific statistical S. Benoist
techniques used in science and industry. Topics: hypothesis
testing and estimation. Confidence intervals, chi-square tests, 18.701 Algebra I
nonparametric statistics, analysis of variance, regression, Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, 18.100Q, or permission of
correlation, decision theory, and Bayesian statistics. instructor
Fall: P. Rigollet. Spring: P. Kempthorne U (Fall)
3-0-9 units
18.6501 Fundamentals of Statistics
Subject meets with 18.650[J], IDS.014[J] 18.701-18.702 is more extensive and theoretical than the
Prereq: 6.041B or 18.600 18.700-18.703 sequence. Experience with proofs necessary. 18.701
G (Fall, Spring) focuses on group theory, geometry, and linear algebra.
4-0-8 units M. Artin
Credit cannot also be received for 15.075[J], IDS.013[J]
18.702 Algebra II
A broad treatment of statistics, concentrating on specific statistical Prereq: 18.701
techniques used in science and industry. Topics: hypothesis U (Spring)
testing and estimation. Confidence intervals, chi-square tests, 3-0-9 units
nonparametric statistics, analysis of variance, regression,
correlation, decision theory, and Bayesian statistics. Students in Continuation of 18.701. Focuses on group representations, rings,
Course 18 must register for the undergraduate version, 18.650[J]. ideals, fields, polynomial rings, modules, factorization, integers in
Fall: P. Rigollet. Spring: P. Kempthorne quadratic number fields, field extensions, and Galois theory.
M. Artin
18.655 Mathematical Statistics
Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

Decision theory, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis

testing. Introduces large sample theory. Asymptotic efficiency of
estimates. Exponential families. Sequential analysis.
Y. Deshpande

Department of Mathematics   |   25
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.703 Modern Algebra 18.708 Topics in Algebra

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) Prereq: 18.705
U (Spring) Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
3-0-9 units
Focuses on traditional algebra topics that have found greatest Can be repeated for credit.
application in science and engineering as well as in mathematics:
group theory, emphasizing finite groups; ring theory, including Topics vary from year to year.
ideals and unique factorization in polynomial and Euclidean rings; Z. Yun
field theory, including properties and applications of finite fields.
18.700 and 18.703 together form a standard algebra sequence. 18.715 Introduction to Representation Theory
V. G. Kac Prereq: 18.702 or 18.703
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall)
18.704 Seminar in Algebra Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
Prereq: 18.701, (18.06 and 18.703), or (18.700 and 18.703) 3-0-9 units
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units Algebras, representations, Schur's lemma. Representations of SL(2).
Representations of finite groups, Maschke's theorem, characters,
Topics vary from year to year. Students present and discuss applications. Induced representations, Burnside's theorem, Mackey
the subject matter. Instruction and practice in written and oral formula, Frobenius reciprocity. Representations of quivers.
communication provided. Some experience with proofs required. G. Lusztig
Enrollment limited.
B. Poonen 18.721 Introduction to Algebraic Geometry
Prereq: 18.702 and 18.901
18.705 Commutative Algebra Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Prereq: 18.702 Acad Year 2019-2020: U (Spring)
G (Fall) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
Presents basic examples of complex algebraic varieties, affine and
Exactness, direct limits, tensor products, Cayley-Hamilton theorem, projective algebraic geometry, sheaves, cohomology.
integral dependence, localization, Cohen-Seidenberg theory, M. Artin
Noether normalization, Nullstellensatz, chain conditions, primary
decomposition, length, Hilbert functions, dimension theory, 18.725 Algebraic Geometry I
completion, Dedekind domains. Prereq: None. Coreq: 18.705
C. Xu G (Fall)
3-0-9 units
18.706 Noncommutative Algebra
Prereq: 18.702 Introduces the basic notions and techniques of modern algebraic
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall) geometry. Covers fundamental notions and results about algebraic
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered varieties over an algebraically closed field; relations between
3-0-9 units complex algebraic varieties and complex analytic varieties;
and examples with emphasis on algebraic curves and surfaces.
Topics may include Wedderburn theory and structure of Artinian Introduction to the language of schemes and properties of
rings, Morita equivalence and elements of category theory, morphisms. Knowledge of elementary algebraic topology,
localization and Goldie's theorem, central simple algebras and the elementary differential geometry recommended, but not required.
Brauer group, representations, polynomial identity rings, invariant A. Pixton
theory growth of algebras, Gelfand-Kirillov dimension.
R. Bezrukavnikov

26   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.726 Algebraic Geometry II 18.747 Infinite-dimensional Lie Algebras

Prereq: 18.725 Prereq: 18.745
G (Spring) Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall)
3-0-9 units
Continuation of the introduction to algebraic geometry given in
18.725. More advanced properties of the varieties and morphisms of Topics vary from year to year.
schemes, as well as sheaf cohomology. R. Bezrukavnikov
A. Pixton
18.748 Topics in Lie Theory
18.727 Topics in Algebraic Geometry Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: 18.725 Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring)
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall) Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units Can be repeated for credit.
Can be repeated for credit.
Topics vary from year to year.
Topics vary from year to year. P. I. Etingof
C. Xu
18.755 Introduction to Lie Groups
18.737 Algebraic Groups Prereq: (18.700 or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
Prereq: 18.705 18.100Q)
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring) G (Fall)
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
A general introduction to manifolds and Lie groups. The role of
Structure of linear algebraic groups over an algebraically closed Lie groups in mathematics and physics. Exponential mapping.
field, with emphasis on reductive groups. Representations of groups Correspondence with Lie algebras. Homogeneous spaces and
over a finite field using methods from etale cohomology. Some transformation groups. Adjoint representation. Covering groups.
results from algebraic geometry are stated without proof. Automorphism groups. Invariant differential forms and cohomology
B. Poonen of Lie groups and homogeneous spaces. 18.101 recommended but
not required.
18.745 Introduction to Lie Algebras P. I. Etingof
Prereq: 18.701 or 18.703
G (Fall) 18.757 Representations of Lie Groups
3-0-9 units Prereq: 18.745 or 18.755
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Topics may include structure of finite-dimensional Lie algebras; Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
theorems of Engel and Lie; Cartan subalgebras and regular 3-0-9 units
elements; trace form and Cartan's criterion; Chevalley's conjugacy
theorem; classification and construction of semisimple Lie algebras; Covers representations of locally compact groups, with emphasis on
Weyl group; universal enveloping algebra and the Casimir operator; compact groups and abelian groups. Includes Peter-Weyl theorem
Weyl's complete reducibility theorem, Levi and Maltsev theorems; and Cartan-Weyl highest weight theory for compact Lie groups.
Verma modules; classification of irreducible finite-dimensional Information: R. Bezrukavnikov
representations of semisimple Lie algebras; Weyl's character and
dimension formulas.
V. G. Kac

Department of Mathematics   |   27
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.781 Theory of Numbers 18.7831 Elliptic Curves

Prereq: None Subject meets with 18.783
U (Spring) Prereq: 18.703; or Coreq: 18.702; or permission of instructor
3-0-9 units Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring)
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered
An elementary introduction to number theory with no algebraic 3-0-9 units
prerequisites. Primes, congruences, quadratic reciprocity,
diophantine equations, irrational numbers, continued fractions, Computationally focused introduction to elliptic curves, with
partitions. applications to number theory and cryptography. Topics include
D. A. Vogan point-counting, isogenies, pairings, and the theory of complex
multiplication, with applications to integer factorization,
18.782 Introduction to Arithmetic Geometry primality proving, and elliptic curve cryptography. Includes a brief
Prereq: 18.702 introduction to modular curves and the proof of Fermat's Last
Acad Year 2018-2019: U (Fall) Theorem. Students in Course 18 must register for the undergraduate
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered version, 18.783.
3-0-9 units A. Sutherland

Exposes students to arithmetic geometry, motivated by the problem 18.784 Seminar in Number Theory
of finding rational points on curves. Includes an introduction to p- Prereq: 18.701 or (18.703 and (18.06 or 18.700))
adic numbers and some fundamental results from number theory U (Spring)
and algebraic geometry, such as the Hasse-Minkowski theorem and 3-0-9 units
the Riemann-Roch theorem for curves. Additional topics may include
Mordell's theorem, the Weil conjectures, and Jacobian varieties. Topics vary from year to year. Students present and discuss
A. Shankar the subject matter. Instruction and practice in written and oral
communication provided. Enrollment limited.
18.783 Elliptic Curves J.-L. Kim
Subject meets with 18.7831
Prereq: 18.703; or Coreq: 18.702; or permission of instructor 18.785 Number Theory I
Acad Year 2018-2019: U (Spring) Prereq: None. Coreq: 18.705
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Computationally focused introduction to elliptic curves, with Dedekind domains, unique factorization of ideals, splitting of
applications to number theory and cryptography. Topics include primes. Lattice methods, finiteness of the class group, Dirichlet's
point-counting, isogenies, pairings, and the theory of complex unit theorem. Local fields, ramification, discriminants. Zeta and
multiplication, with applications to integer factorization, L-functions, analytic class number formula. Adeles and ideles.
primality proving, and elliptic curve cryptography. Includes a brief Statements of class field theory and the Chebotarev density
introduction to modular curves and the proof of Fermat's Last theorem.
Theorem. A. Sutherland
A. Sutherland
18.786 Number Theory II
Prereq: 18.785
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units

Continuation of 18.785. More advanced topics in number theory,

such as Galois cohomology, proofs of class field theory, modular
forms and automorphic forms, Galois representations, or quadratic
forms.
W. Zhang

28   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.787 Topics in Number Theory 18.901 Introduction to Topology

Prereq: Permission of instructor Subject meets with 18.9011
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Fall) Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, 18.100Q, or permission of
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered instructor
3-0-9 units U (Fall, Spring)
Can be repeated for credit. 3-0-9 units

Topics vary from year to year. Introduces topology, covering topics fundamental to modern
W. Zhang analysis and geometry. Topological spaces and continuous
functions, connectedness, compactness, separation axioms,
covering spaces, and the fundamental group.
Mathematics Laboratory
Fall: Y. Pan. Spring: G. Lusztig
18.821 Project Laboratory in Mathematics
Prereq: Two mathematics subjects numbered 18.10 or above 18.9011 Introduction to Topology
U (Fall, Spring) Subject meets with 18.901
3-6-3 units. Institute LAB Prereq: 18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, 18.100Q, or permission of
instructor
Guided research in mathematics, employing the scientific G (Fall, Spring)
method. Students confront puzzling and complex mathematical 3-0-9 units
situations, through the acquisition of data by computer, pencil
and paper, or physical experimentation, and attempt to explain Introduces topology, covering topics fundamental to modern
them mathematically. Students choose three projects from a large analysis and geometry. Topological spaces and continuous
collection of options. Each project results in a laboratory report functions, connectedness, compactness, separation axioms,
subject to revision; oral presentation on one or two projects. covering spaces, and the fundamental group. Students in Course 18
Projects drawn from many areas, including dynamical systems, must register for the undergraduate version, 18.901.
number theory, algebra, fluid mechanics, asymptotic analysis, knot Fall: Y. Pan. Spring: G. Lusztig
theory, and probability. Enrollment limited.
Fall: H. Cohn. Spring: R. Bezrukavnikov 18.904 Seminar in Topology
Prereq: 18.901
U (Spring)
Topology and Geometry 3-0-9 units

18.900 Geometry and Topology in the Plane (New) Topics vary from year to year. Students present and discuss
Prereq: 18.03 or 18.06 the subject matter. Instruction and practice in written and oral
U (Spring) communication provided. Enrollment limited.
3-0-9 units G. Tabuada

Covers selected topics in geometry and topology, which can be 18.905 Algebraic Topology I
visualized in the two-dimensional plane. Polygonal paths. Polygonal Prereq: 18.901 and (18.701 or 18.703)
complexes and triangulations. Billiards. Plane curves. Winding G (Fall)
number and rotation number. Hyperbolic geometry. Continuous 3-0-9 units
curves and Jordan's theorem. Other topics may be included as time
permits. Singular homology, CW complexes, universal coefficient and
P. Seidel Künneth theorems, cohomology, cup products, Poincaré duality.
G. Tabuada

Department of Mathematics   |   29
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.906 Algebraic Topology II 18.950 Differential Geometry

Prereq: 18.905 Subject meets with 18.9501
G (Spring) Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
3-0-9 units 18.100Q)
U (Fall)
Continues the introduction to Algebraic Topology from 18.905. 3-0-9 units
Topics include basic homotopy theory, spectral sequences,
characteristic classes, and cohomology operations. Introduction to differential geometry, centered on notions of
T. Bachmann curvature. Starts with curves in the plane, and proceeds to higher
dimensional submanifolds. Computations in coordinate charts: first
18.917 Topics in Algebraic Topology and second fundamental form, Christoffel symbols. Discusses the
Prereq: 18.906 distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic aspects, in particular
G (Spring) Gauss' theorema egregium. The Gauss-Bonnet theorem. Geodesics.
3-0-9 units Examples such as hyperbolic space.
Can be repeated for credit. N. Edelen

Content varies from year to year. Introduces new and significant 18.9501 Differential Geometry
developments in algebraic topology with the focus on homotopy Subject meets with 18.950
theory and related areas. Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
Z. Xu 18.100Q)
G (Fall)
18.919 Graduate Topology Seminar 3-0-9 units
Prereq: 18.906
G (Fall) Introduction to differential geometry, centered on notions of
3-0-9 units curvature. Starts with curves in the plane, and proceeds to higher
dimensional submanifolds. Computations in coordinate charts: first
Study and discussion of important original papers in the various and second fundamental form, Christoffel symbols. Discusses the
parts of algebraic topology. Open to all students who have taken distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic aspects, in particular
18.906 or the equivalent, not only prospective topologists. Gauss' theorema egregium. The Gauss-Bonnet theorem. Geodesics.
H. R. Miller Examples such as hyperbolic space. Students in Course 18 must
register for the undergraduate version, 18.950.
18.937 Topics in Geometric Topology N. Edelen
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Acad Year 2018-2019: G (Spring) 18.952 Theory of Differential Forms
Acad Year 2019-2020: Not offered Prereq: 18.101 and (18.700 or 18.701)
3-0-9 units U (Spring)
Can be repeated for credit. 3-0-9 units
Content varies from year to year. Introduces new and significant Multilinear algebra: tensors and exterior forms. Differential forms
developments in geometric topology. n
on R : exterior differentiation, the pull-back operation and the
T. S. Mrowka Poincaré lemma. Applications to physics: Maxwell's equations
from the differential form perspective. Integration of forms on open
n
sets of R . The change of variables formula revisited. The degree
of a differentiable mapping. Differential forms on manifolds and
De Rham theory. Integration of forms on manifolds and Stokes'
theorem. The push-forward operation for forms. Thom forms and
intersection theory. Applications to differential topology.
V. W. Guillemin

30   |   Department of Mathematics
 DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.965 Geometry of Manifolds I 18.994 Seminar in Geometry

Prereq: 18.101, 18.950, or 18.952 Prereq: (18.06, 18.700, or 18.701) and (18.100A, 18.100B, 18.100P, or
G (Fall) 18.100Q)
3-0-9 units U (Fall)
3-0-9 units
Differential forms, introduction to Lie groups, the DeRham theorem,
Riemannian manifolds, curvature, the Hodge theory. 18.966 is a Students present and discuss subject matter taken from current
continuation of 18.965 and focuses more deeply on various aspects journals or books. Topics vary from year to year. Instruction and
of the geometry of manifolds. Contents vary from year to year, practice in written and oral communication provided. Enrollment
and can range from Riemannian geometry (curvature, holonomy) limited.
to symplectic geometry, complex geometry and Hodge-Kahler J. Lin
theory, or smooth manifold topology. Prior exposure to calculus on
manifolds, as in 18.952, recommended. 18.999 Research in Mathematics
C. Mantoulidis Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, Spring, Summer)
18.966 Geometry of Manifolds II Units arranged
Prereq: 18.965 Can be repeated for credit.
G (Spring)
3-0-9 units Opportunity for study of graduate-level topics in mathematics
under the supervision of a member of the department. For graduate
Continuation of 18.965, focusing more deeply on various aspects students desiring advanced work not provided in regular subjects.
of the geometry of manifolds. Contents vary from year to year, and Information: W. Minicozzi
can range from Riemannian geometry (curvature, holonomy) to
symplectic geometry, complex geometry and Hodge-Kahler theory, 18.UR Undergraduate Research
or smooth manifold topology. Prereq: Permission of instructor
T. Collins U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged [P/D/F]
18.968 Topics in Geometry Can be repeated for credit.
Prereq: 18.965
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered Undergraduate research opportunities in mathematics. Permission
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall) required in advance to register for this subject. For further
3-0-9 units information, consult the departmental coordinator.
Can be repeated for credit. Information: J. W. Bush

Content varies from year to year. 18.THG Graduate Thesis

T. Colding Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
18.979 Graduate Geometry Seminar Units arranged
Prereq: Permission of instructor Can be repeated for credit.
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring) Program of research leading to the writing of a Ph.D. thesis; to be
3-0-9 units arranged by the student and an appropriate MIT faculty member.
Can be repeated for credit. Information: W. Minicozzi

Content varies from year to year. Study of classical papers in

geometry and in applications of analysis to geometry and topology.
T. Mrowka

Department of Mathematics   |   31
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

18.S096 Special Subject in Mathematics 18.S997 Special Subject in Mathematics

Prereq: Permission of instructor Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall) Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Units arranged Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
Can be repeated for credit. Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.
Opportunity for group study of subjects in mathematics not
otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by Opportunity for group study of advanced subjects in mathematics
members of the Mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by
departmental approval. 18.S097 is graded P/D/F. members of the Mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to
Y. Deshpande Departmental approval.
Y. Zhao
18.S097 Special Subject in Mathematics
Prereq: Permission of instructor 18.S998 Special Subject in Mathematics
U (IAP) Prereq: Permission of instructor
Units arranged [P/D/F] Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Can be repeated for credit. Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)
Units arranged
Opportunity for group study of subjects in mathematics not Can be repeated for credit.
otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by
members of the Mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to Opportunity for group study of advanced subjects in mathematics
departmental approval. 18.S097 is graded P/D/F. not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by
Information: J. W. Bush members of the Mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to
departmental approval.
18.S995 Special Subject in Mathematics Information: J. W. Bush
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Acad Year 2018-2019: Not offered
Acad Year 2019-2020: G (Fall)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for group study of advanced subjects in mathematics

not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by
members of the mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to
departmental approval.
J. Dunkel

18.S996 Special Subject in Mathematics

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for group study of advanced subjects in mathematics

not otherwise included in the curriculum. Offerings are initiated by
members of the Mathematics faculty on an ad hoc basis, subject to
Departmental approval.
A. Negut

32   |   Department of Mathematics