Worcester Polytechnic Institute · 0.75 credits · UGRD
Catalog
Problem-solving is a fundamental mathematical skill. In this course, students will be exposed to problems coming from a wide range of mathematical disciplines; and will work together in a collaborative environment to explore potential solutions. Discussion problems may be inspired by the research of faculty leading the discussion, by past mathematical competitions (such as the Putnam Competition), or elsewhere. This course meets once per week, with an emphasis on discussion and exploration of problems. There will be no exam and no assigned homework. Grading is by participation only. This course may be taken multiple times; content will vary depending on the speakers. Grading for this course will be on a Pass/NR basis. Recommended background: Curiosity about Mathematics
Recent sections
Fall 2026 · 2 sections
Section
Days & time
Location
Instructor
A01Class #MA-1801-A01
Days & timeW12:00 PM - 1:50 PM2026-08-20 - 2026-10-09
LocationStratton Hall 207 (new)
InstructorSarah Olson
A01 notes: <p><span style="color:#4a4a4a"><span>This course will explore real-world applications of mathematics and statistics, meet experts shaping today’s math powered industries, and join a supportive community of peers as you transition into your major</span></span></p>
B01Class #MA-1801-B01
Days & timeT4:00 PM - 5:50 PM2026-10-19 - 2026-12-11
LocationStratton Hall 201
InstructorKenji Kozai
B01 notes: <p>Prep for The William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition</p><p><u><a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.maa.org%2Fmath-competitions%2Fputnam-competition&data=05%7C01%7Cclb%40wpi.edu%7C8752f5767d934ab0768e08dbab206fdb%7C589c76f5ca1541f9884b55ec15a0672a%7C0%7C0%7C638291928052070106%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ubaPRjcaSBhA%2Fn5kSjYa7taHyNQDQkyF70EMqHj5rQ4%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.maa.org/math-competitions/putnam-competition</a></u></p>