Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - MACM 409 D100

Numerical Linear Algebra: Algorithms, Implementation and Applications (3)

Class Number: 6060

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 11, 2025
    Thu, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MATH 251, MACM 316, programming experience.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Development of numerical methods for solving linear algebra problems at the heart of many scientific computing problems. Mathematical foundations for the use, implementation and analysis of the algorithms used for solving many optimization problems and differential equations. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

A quick refresher of linear algebra, matrix factorizations, conditioning and stability, linear systems, the Fast Fourier Transform, methods for computing eigenvalues, and iterative methods. A running theme in the class will be applications of linear algebra.

Note: this is a cross-listed course with MATH 709.

Grading

  • Homework 20%
  • Midterm 1 20%
  • Midterm 2 20%
  • Final Exam 40%

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:

Linear Algebra and Learning from Data
Gilbert Strang
SIAM
ISBN: 9780692196380

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The following are default policies in the School of Computing Science. Please check your course syllabus whether the instructor has chosen a different policy for your class, otherwise the following policies apply.
 
  • Students must attain an overall passing grade on the weighted average of exams in the course in order to get a C- or higher.
  • All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes, or no later than one week after a student adds a course. After considering a request, an instructor may provide a concession or may decline to do so. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability can contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca).

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: 


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.