Rings and Fields - Introductory Abstract Algebra

This course introduces rings and fields—two central structures in abstract algebra. You’ll learn how rings extend the idea of groups with two operations, and how fields bring in the familiar arithmetic of fractions and equations. We explore key examples like integers, polynomials, and modular systems. Simple, structured, and made for first-time learners building up their algebra toolkit.

Payment required for enrolment
Enrolment valid for 12 months
This course is also part of the following learning tracks. You may join a track to gain comprehensive knowledge across related courses.
[UI, Ibadan] MAT 211/213: Abstract Algebra
[UI, Ibadan] MAT 211/213: Abstract Algebra
This learning track brings together the essential building blocks of abstract algebra in one clear, structured path. We begin with the fundamentals—set theory, relations, and mappings—to build the logical foundation for working with algebraic systems. Then we move into binary operations, groups, subgroups, and homomorphisms, helping you develop the tools to recognize structure and symmetry. The track wraps up with rings, fields, and key ideas from elementary number theory that tie everything together. Curated for second-year undergraduates in engineering and physical sciences at the University of Ibadan, but equally valuable for any learner stepping into abstract algebra for the first time. Clear, focused, and paced to guide you with both depth and intuition.

This learning track brings together the essential building blocks of abstract algebra in one clear, structured path. We begin with the fundamentals—set theory, relations, and mappings—to build the logical foundation for working with algebraic systems. Then we move into binary operations, groups, subgroups, and homomorphisms, helping you develop the tools to recognize structure and symmetry. The track wraps up with rings, fields, and key ideas from elementary number theory that tie everything together. Curated for second-year undergraduates in engineering and physical sciences at the University of Ibadan, but equally valuable for any learner stepping into abstract algebra for the first time. Clear, focused, and paced to guide you with both depth and intuition.

[OAU, Ife] MTH 205: Introduction to Algebra
[OAU, Ife] MTH 205: Introduction to Algebra
This track offers a clear guide to the core ideas of modern algebra — from the fundamentals of Set Theory, Relations, and Mappings to the study of Groups, their important parts called Subgroups, and the links between them known as Homomorphisms. The material concludes with other key structures like Rings, Fields, and some Elementary Number Theory. Beyond the theory, the courses train you to think logically and solve complex problems. These skills are essential in computer science for areas like cryptography and algorithm design, and they form a basis for higher-level mathematics. MTH 205: Introduction to Algebra is designed for second-year mathematics and computer science students at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. It is also valuable for other students and professionals who want a solid grasp of abstract mathematics.

This track offers a clear guide to the core ideas of modern algebra — from the fundamentals of Set Theory, Relations, and Mappings to the study of Groups, their important parts called Subgroups, and the links between them known as Homomorphisms. The material concludes with other key structures like Rings, Fields, and some Elementary Number Theory. Beyond the theory, the courses train you to think logically and solve complex problems. These skills are essential in computer science for areas like cryptography and algorithm design, and they form a basis for higher-level mathematics. MTH 205: Introduction to Algebra is designed for second-year mathematics and computer science students at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. It is also valuable for other students and professionals who want a solid grasp of abstract mathematics.

Course Chapters

1
Introduction

Definition of a ring, ring axioms, properties, examples.

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2
Some Special Rings

Commutative rings, Boolean rings, integral domains - properties and examples.

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3
Subrings

Definition, subring test, and illustrative examples; two-sided ideals.

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4
Ring Homomorphisms

Definition and illustration of ring homomorphisms.

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5
Fields

Division rings, fields - definition, properties and illustrative examples.

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