Mathematics for Economists (ECON90053)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

You’re viewing the 2018 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks
You’re currently viewing the 2018 version of this subject

Overview

Availability
Semester 1
Semester 2
FeesLook up fees

This subject introduces students to the use of advanced mathematics in economics. After reviewing basic concepts we will study in detail some of the classic existence proofs in game theory and general equilibrium theory. Students will be expected to solve problems and generate proofs, and will be assessed on this.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to understand the definitions and fundamental concepts of linear algebra, vector calculus, and real analysis as they relate to studies in advanced economics. They should be able to use these tools to:



  • prove relevant optimisation theorems;
  • set up and solve optimal control problems;
  • set up and solve dynamic programming problems.

Generic skills

High level of development:

  • problem solving;
  • interpretation and analysis;
  • critical thinking.

Moderate level of development:

  • oral communication;
  • written communication;
  • collaborative learning;
  • team work;
  • application of theory to practice;
  • receptiveness to alternative ideas.

Some level of development:

  • synthesis of data and other information;
  • evaluation of data and other information;
  • use of computer software;
  • accessing data and other information from a range of sources.

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

One of:

ECON40001 Advanced Microeconomics

OR

ECON90002 Microeconomics

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
ECON40001 Advanced Microeconomics
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
ECON90002 Microeconomics
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
ECON40017 Mathematics for Economists
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Recommended background knowledge

Prior exposure to real analysis is desirable.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Assessment

Additional details

  • A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (50%);
  • One 1.5-hour mid-semester test due in week 7 (30%); and
  • Two 500-word problem sets due in weeks 5 and 10 (20%).

Note: Successful completion of this subject requires a pass (50%) in the final exam.

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Dates & times

  • Semester 1
    Principal coordinatorSteven Williams
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hoursOne 90 minute lecture and one 90 minute workshop per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period26 February 2018 to 27 May 2018
    Last self-enrol date 9 March 2018
    Census date31 March 2018
    Last date to withdraw without fail 4 May 2018
    Assessment period ends22 June 2018

    Semester 1 contact information

    Semester 1:

    Prof Steven Williams

    Email: steven.williams@unimelb.edu.au

    Semester 2:

    AsProf Roberto Raimondo

    Email: rraim@unimelb.edu.au

  • Semester 2
    Principal coordinatorRoberto Raimondo
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hoursOne 90 minute lecture and one 90 minute workshop per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period23 July 2018 to 21 October 2018
    Last self-enrol date 3 August 2018
    Census date31 August 2018
    Last date to withdraw without fail21 September 2018
    Assessment period ends16 November 2018

    Semester 2 contact information

    Semester 1:

    Prof Steven Williams

    Email: steven.williams@unimelb.edu.au

    Semester 2:

    AsProf Roberto Raimondo

    Email: rraim@unimelb.edu.au

Time commitment details

Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours per semester

Last updated: 3 November 2022

Further information

  • Texts

    Prescribed texts

    You will be advised of prescribed texts by your lecturer.

  • Related Handbook entries

    This subject contributes to the following:

    TypeName
    CourseMaster of Economics
    CourseMaster of Commerce (Finance)
    CourseMaster of Commerce (Accounting)
  • Available through the Community Access Program

    About the Community Access Program (CAP)

    This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.

    Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants

    Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.

Last updated: 3 November 2022