Introductory description

Students will be given the opportunity to develop the requisite quantitative skills for a rigorous study of contemporary economics, including univariate and multivariate calculus, constrained optimization and matrix algebra. The module incorporates both the essential mathematical methods as well as illustrative economic applications. You will also develop appropriate maths-related technical computing skills.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Pre-requisite. You will be expected to have a good knowledge of A level algebra and calculus including the rules of differentiation and integration (which will not be taught).

The module will typically cover the following topics:
Calculus of functions of two or more variables; Unconstrained and constrained optimisation; Comparative statics; Matrix algebra; Financial mathematics, and an introduction to difference equations; Illustrative applications of all techniques in economics; mathematical computing skills.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• :...acquire the tools of quantitative methods necessary to study core and optional first and second year modules in economics for the single honours Economics degree;
• :...develop basic programming ability in the selected statistical software package, including utilising this software to graph functions and undertake mathematical methods;
• '... to enable a systematic quantitative approach to analysing economic problems;
• develop technical computing skills for writing mathematical text and numerical mathematical analysis

Indicative reading list

Please see Talis Aspire link for most up to date list.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Students will have the opportunity to develop skills in:
Analytical thinking and communication
Analytical reasoning
Problem-solving
Abstraction
Analysis of optimisation

Transferable skills

Students will have the opportunity to develop:
Numeracy and quantitative skills
IT skills
Written communication skills
Oral communication skills
Mathematical, statistical and data-based research skills