Textbook: Fundamentals of Error-Correcting Codes,  W. C. Huffman, V. Pless, first ed.

 Click here for the homework assignments.

Course Description: This course will be an introduction to algebraic error-correcting codes. Algebraic Coding Theory uses algebraic structures to construct "good" codes (we will explain "good" as we go). In particular we will need polynomial rings, ideals, finite rings and finite fields to construct certain codes. As always in an Algebra course it is crucial that you know every definition, theorem, lemma, proposition, and proof given in the text or in lecture. The planned material is chapters 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 then extra topics if there is time at the end.

Prerequisites: The prerequisite for this course is Math 621 - Graduate Algebra. If you do not have the prerequisites for this class but were admitted anyway, you are taking the course at your own risk. We will assume you are familiar with all of the algebra covered in Math 621 (in particular the topics described above) though we will always give a short review of each topic.

Attendance Policy: I follow the official College attendance policy. In particular if your unexcused absences exceed 15% of the classes (that is 2 classes), you are subject to a failing grade, regardless of your scores on exams, homework, and quizzes. Each unexcused absence above two will result in your grade being lowered one step. To avoid an unexcused absence you must contact me in person, by phone, or by email prior to the missed class. In addition, you are responsible for obtaining the notes, and any announcements made during the missed class. 

Grading: Your grade will be composed of 15% homework, 25% for each of two midterms, and 35% for the final exam.
    Homework: Each week there will be a homework to be turned in.  You may work on the homework together however everyone must turn in their own homeworks. Homeworks must be relatively neat and should include all of your work. We will also try to have students present homework solutions during each class. Thes presentations will be included in your homework grade. It is recommended that you form small study groups to review notes, discuss problems, and study for exams.
    Exams: There will be two 90 minute exams as well as a final exam. The exams will be on Thur. Sept. 20 and on Thur. Oct. 25. The final exam will be Thursday May 11, 7:30-9:30pm and may be cumulative but will focus on the later material. There will be no make-up exams. In the event class is canceled on one of the exam days, the exam will be given during the next class.
    Reading assignments: Reading assignments will be given each class to prepare for the next lecture. It is expected that you will read the sections and know the definitions, theorems, and at least a rough idea of the material. I do not assume you will completely understand the material before class, however it is important that you get an idea of what will be presented.

Academic Integrity: Academic dishonesty is a major violation of College policy and it is not tolerated. It can result in a range of disciplinary actions including failure of the course, suspension, and dismissal from the College. A written report of the the incident is filed in the student's permanent file.

Students with Special Needs: I would appreciate hearing from anyone in this class who has special needs that may be a result of a disability. I am reasonably sure we can work out whatever arrangements are necessary.

Drops and withdrawals: Note that the deadline for adds is 9/4 (late adds 9/14) and the drop period ends on 9/25. The withdrawal w/o permission period ends 11/2 and the deadline to withdraw with permission is 11/30.

Course Web site: There will be a course web site which will contain homework assignments (found at www.acs.brockport.edu/~hskogman) and any other announcements or handouts (as well as this syllabus).