Johns Hopkins University
Honors Algebra 2: Polynomials and Complex Numbers

Discover new skills with 30% off courses from industry experts. Save now.

Johns Hopkins University

Honors Algebra 2: Polynomials and Complex Numbers

Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD

Top Instructor

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

September 2025

Assessments

12 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

There are 3 modules in this course

You’ve already worked with quadratic equations and discovered how powerful they are for modeling and problem-solving. But what happens when a quadratic has no real solutions? Does the journey stop there? Not at all—this is where mathematics becomes even more fascinating. In this module, you’ll be introduced to complex numbers, an extension of the real number system that ensures every quadratic equation has a solution. You’ll learn how to work with these new numbers, visualize them, and see how they unlock doors to deeper mathematical ideas used in engineering, physics, and beyond. Get ready to expand your number system, sharpen your problem-solving skills, and experience the excitement of discovering that mathematics is bigger—and more powerful—than you may have imagined.

What's included

1 video3 readings3 assignments

Up to now, you’ve worked with linear and quadratic functions—two powerful tools for modeling relationships and solving problems. But these are just the beginning of a much bigger family of functions called polynomials. In this module, you’ll dive into polynomial functions of higher degree, uncovering the rules that define them and the algebraic techniques that let us work with them. From there, we’ll turn our attention to their graphs, learning how the degree and structure of a polynomial shape its behavior. By the end, you’ll see how these functions extend the patterns you already know and open the door to solving more complex, real-world problems.

What's included

5 videos5 readings4 assignments

As we complete our study of polynomials, it’s time to take a closer look at their most important features—their roots, or zeros. In this module, you’ll learn powerful techniques for finding and analyzing these solutions, building on your understanding of complex numbers to tackle equations that go beyond the real number system. You’ll also explore how the roots of a polynomial influence the overall shape of its graph, and how these ideas connect to real-world modeling. By the end, you’ll see how polynomials tie together algebraic methods, graphical patterns, and practical applications, giving you a deeper appreciation for their role across mathematics and science.

What's included

2 videos4 readings5 assignments

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Joseph W. Cutrone, PhD

Top Instructor

Johns Hopkins University
24 Courses654,236 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Math and Logic

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Coursera Plus

Open new doors with Coursera Plus

Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription

Advance your career with an online degree

Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online

Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business

Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy

Frequently asked questions