MATH 238 Differential Equations

5 credits

This course meets the Quantitative Reasoning  general education distribution requirement.

Prerequisites: MATH& 152  

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe differential equations using appropriate mathematical notation, symbols, and graphs
• Classify differential equations by order, linearity, and homogeneity
• Solve first and second order linear differential equations
• Solve linear equations with constant coefficients
• Use separation of variables, method of undermined coefficients, and variation of parameters to solve differential equations
• Use power series methods to solve differential equations
• Determine whether a system of functions is linearly independent using the Wronksian
• Use Laplace transforms and their inverses to solve differential equations
• Solve systems of linear differential equations using matrix techniques and eigenvalues
• Use numerical methods to solve differential equations
• Model real-life applications using differential equations
• Use technology for finding solutions and data visualization
• Use the mathematical critical thinking skills of problem solving, pattern recognition, substitution, following structural rules, and quantitative modeling to solve problems requiring reasoning, critical thinking, and computation

• Gather, organize, and interpret data using multiple approaches
• Develop and use mathematical models to describe and evaluate physical situations
• Communicate problem-solving strategies and mathematically justify solutions
• Select and utilize appropriate technology to analyze mathematical problems