Fall 2026 - MATH 447 D100
Coding Theory (3)
Class Number: 4514
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Petr Lisonek
plisonek@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
MATH 340 or 332, with a minimum grade of C-.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
An introduction to the theory and practice of error-correcting codes. Topics will include finite fields, polynomial rings, linear and non-linear codes, BCH codes, convolutional codes, majority logic decoding, weight distribution of codes, and bounds on the size of codes.
COURSE DETAILS:
We aim to study the theory and practice of linear error-correcting codes. Such codes enable the various methods of transmission and storage of digital data through noisy media, such as Internet, mobile telephony, wireless networks, DVD and CD discs, and deep space communication. The textbook for this course eases the student through the beautiful algebraic structures embraced by coding theory: groups, rings, fields and vector spaces.
- Fundamentals
- Finite fields
- Linear codes
- Cyclic codes
- BCH codes
- Applications
Grading
- Assignments 20%
- Midterms 30%
- Final Exam 50%
NOTES:
THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION.
Students should be aware that they have certain rights to confidentiality concerning the return of course papers and the posting of marks.
Please pay careful attention to the options discussed in class at the beginning of the semester.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
An Introduction to Error Correcting Codes with Applications
Scott A Vanstone and Paul C. van Oorschot
Kluwer Academic Publishers (Springer)
ISBN: 9780792390176
Department Undergraduate Notes:
Final Examinations: Students are expected to remain available for the entire final examination period published in the Academic Calendar. Travel, employment, and other personal commitments should be planned accordingly. Such commitments do not normally constitute grounds for alternative examination arrangements.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.