MATH 68 Algebraic Combinatorics
This course covers the use of abstract algebra in studying the existence, construction, enumeration, and classification of combinatorial structures. The theory of enumeration, including both Polya Theory and the Incidence Algebra, and culminating in a study of algebras of generating functions, will be a central theme in the course. Other topics that may be included if time permits are the construction of block designs, error-correcting codes, lattice theory, the combinatorial theory of the symmetric group, and incidence matrices of combinatorial structures. Offered in alternate years.
Prerequisite
MATH 28 and MATH 31, or
MATH 71, or permission of the instructor.