Introduction to Mathematics for Economics

Module overview

This module provides a bridge between school mathematics and university mathematics. It provides a good grounding and in-depth understanding of the theory and application of differential calculus, and other techniques widely used in Economics and Finance. It is aimed at students who do not hold an A level in Mathematics at Grade B or above. It is compulsory for Joint-Honours courses with Economics for students who are not taking ECON1008. The module can also be taken as an optional module by students outside Economics who wish to follow a basic quantitative mathematics course. Topics of study include functions, univariate optimisation, elasticity, financial mathematics, multivariate optimisation, constrained optimization, matrices, integration and difference and differential equations. The module is designed to prepare students for further quantitative modules in 2nd and 3rd year. It also complements the teaching of first year microeconomics and macroeconomics modules.

Linked modules

Pre-req: ECON1007

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Solve unconstrained optimisation problems involving functions of single and multiple variables.
Solve problems involving variables that discretely and continuously grow over time, and compute present discounted values, future compounded values, and rates of growth.
Solve difference and differential equations.
Solve simultaneous equations.
Distinguish the types of stationary points.
Calculate arc and point elasticity.
Define sequences and evaluate series, including Taylor/Maclaurin expansions.
Use the Lagrange multiplier method to solve constrained optimisation problems involving functions of single and multiple variables.
Perform basic matrix operations, including addition and subtraction, scalar multiplication, matrix multiplication, transposition and inversion.
Perform single, double, and by parts integration.
Manipulate exponential and logarithmic functions and solve problems involving such functions.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Lecture, tutorials, masterclasses, and private study.

Study time
Type	Hours
Lecture	26
Tutorial	8
Teaching	5
Independent Study	116
Total study time	155

Resources & Reading list

Internet Resources

Free maths tutorials from the Khan academy.

Mathscard.

Mathcentre.

Math Tutor.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

This module is assessed as follows: A two hours end of semester exam (80%) and online quizzes (20%). This is accompanied by continuous formative assessment in form of problem sets. This is the same for internal repeats. Referral and external repeat assessment are through 100% final exam.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Online test	20%
Exam	80%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Exam	100%

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Exam	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External