Graph Theory (Math 634)

Syllabus

Syllabus updated on January 22, 2016

Overview and prerequisites

Graph Theory is an exciting and lively branch of mathematics filled with fascinating problems, beautiful and ingenious solutions, deep and significant theorems, and remarkable connections to other fields. No prior knowledge of Graph Theory will be assumed. Linear algebra is not an official prerequisite, but will be used freely and without apology during the course. A certain level of mathematical is also required.

Textbook

There is one required textbook for the course:

As the author calls it, the book is a "substantial introduction to graph theory." There's too much in the book for a one-semester course. After covering the fundamentals (Chapter I) I'll choose topics to give you some breadth, some depth, and expose you to some of the new developments from the last few decades. For example, I'd like to cover stable matchings (Shapley and Roth won the Nobel prize in Economics in 2012 for this) and some of the theory of Rangom graphs (Chapter VII).

Practical information

The class is scheduled to meet in Kiely 334 from 6:30--7:45pm on Tuesday and Thursday.

Contact info:

Discussion Forum

Questions about the course should be posted on the discussion forum hosted at Piazza. You will need to get an account and signup http://piazza.com/qc.cuny.edu/fall2015/math231/home/ in order to post to the forum.

Students will get credit for well-defined questions, valuable comments, and well-written answers posted on the Q&A page:

Coursework

Homework will be assigned frequently. Students will have an opportunity to write their solutions to homework problems on the board and to get feedback on their work.

There will be a midterm exam and a final exam. Course grades will be determined as follows:

Calendar

Be aware of the CUNY Academic Calendar. In particular, our class is not scheduled to meet on Tuesday, February 9, Tuesday April 26, or Thursday April 28. Also, our class will not meet on Tuesday, February 16.