VALPARAISO | Gifted and talented mathematics students from Northwest Indiana high schools are invited to apply for enrollment in a Valparaiso University course that will introduce them to cutting edge topics in mathematics and provide an opportunity to earn college credit.

The course Selected Topics in Mathematics, offered through the University's Young Scholars Academy, will meet 6:10 to 8:50 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 12 through May 4.

Richard Gillman, professor of mathematics and computer science, said the course will introduce highly motivated high school mathematics students to topics not usually pursued in the high school curriculum.

Richard Gillman, professor of mathematics and computer science, said the course will introduce highly motivated high school mathematics students to topics not usually pursued in the high school curriculum.

"Many of these topics are at the leading edge of applied and theoretical mathematics," he said. "Besides being a great opportunity to explore new areas of mathematics, students will benefit by earning college credit, meeting other students who share their interest in mathematics and discovering whether their future might involve a high-level career in mathematics."

Topics to be explored in the course include chaos, the study of dynamically changing systems; game theory, the study of strategic decision-making in the presence of competition and uncertainty; topology, the study of geometric properties; and linear programming, a tool for optimizing return, given resource restraints.

Students enrolled in the course will earn three credits that can be transferred to any college or university in the country.

The course is open to high school students with at least sophomore standing who meet enrollment requirements.

The cost of the course is $600. Space is limited in order to ensure personal attention and a fast-paced setting, and applications must be submitted by Nov. 26. For more information about the course or to apply, send an e-mail to highschool.special@valpo.edu or call Valparaiso's Office of Continuing Education at (219) 464-5313.

Valparaiso's Young Scholars Academy offers an integrated college experience to talented high school students in the areas of mathematics, science and technology, and the arts. For more information contact the Office of Continuing Education or visit valpo.edu/continuinged.

--For The Times