MATH 103 - College Algebra

Course Description

  • Prerequisite: "C" or higher in MATH 25 OR placement in MATH 103

An extension of the elementary algebra sequence designed to prepare students for precalculus. Topics include simplification of algebraic and radical expressions, factoring, solution of linear, quadratic, absolute value and literal equations and inequalities, complex numbers, solution of linear and quadratic systems, logarithms and an introduction to functions and their graphs.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of Math 103, the student will be able to:

  • Solve equations and inequalities involving absolute values
  • Solve systems of equations in three unknowns and nonlinear systems in two unknowns.
  • Raise binomials to the nth degree using Pascal's triangle or the Binomial Theorem
  • Factor polynomials using techniques such as grouping, sum and difference of two cubes and completing the square, including problems with greater complexity than elementary algebra
  • Perform arithmetic operations on rational expressions and solve ration equations, including problems with greater complexity than elementary algebra
  • Change from rational exponents to radicals and visa versa, including problems with greater complexity than elementary algebra.
  • Perform operations on radicals and solving radical equations containing more than one radical, including problems with greater complexity than elementary algebra
  • Perform arithmetic operations with complex and imaginary numbers
  • Solve quadratic form and literal quadratic equations
  • Use the discriminant to determine the type of roots of an equation
  • Graph quadratic functions including finding its vertex by completing the square
  • Solve compound linear and quadratic inequalities
  • Divide polynomials using synthetic division
  • Recognize functions through graphs and equations, stating their domains and ranges
  • Use function notation
  • Determine the algebraic and graphical properties of a one-to-one function
  • Find the inverse function of a one-to-one function
  • Define and graph basic exponential and logarithmic functions
  • Solve basic exponential and logarithmic equations

In general, the course is designed to provide the student with skills and knowledge necessary to handle pre-calculus courses such as Math 135, Math 140 and QM 121. Upon completion, students are expected to hae a clearer understanding of, and deeper insight into, algebraic and related geometric concepts, operations, and techniques.