Mathematics for Economists (ECON90053)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1
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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: 4 March 2025

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

Admission into the MC-COMECO Master of Commerce (Economics)

OR

One of

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 1 (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: 4 March 2025

Assessment

DescriptionTimingPercentage

Problem set

  • 500 words
Week 510%

Mid-semester test

  • 1.5 hours
Week 720%

Problem set

  • 500 words
Week 1010%

Class participation

Throughout the semester10%

End-of-semester examination

  • 2 hours
Hurdle requirement: Successful completion of this subject requires a pass (50%) in the final exam.		During the examination period50%

Additional details

If the mark on the end-of-semester examination is higher than the mark on the mid-semester test, then the lower mark on the mid-semester test will be dropped for the course total and the higher end-of-semester examination mark will be scaled up to constitute 70% of the total mark for the course.

Last updated: 4 March 2025

Dates & times

  • Semester 1
    Principal coordinatorGeorgy Artemov
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hoursOne 90 minute lecture and one 90 minute workshop per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period 3 March 2025 to 1 June 2025
    Last self-enrol date14 March 2025
    Census date31 March 2025
    Last date to withdraw without fail 9 May 2025
    Assessment period ends27 June 2025

    Semester 1 contact information

    Georgy Artemov: georgy.artemov@unimelb.edu.au

Time commitment details

Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours per semester

What do these dates mean

Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:

  • Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
  • And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
       -  Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
     

    Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.

Last updated: 4 March 2025

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 Commerce (Finance)
    CourseMaster of Economics
    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.

  • Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students

    This subject is available to students studying at the University from eligible overseas institutions on exchange and study abroad. Students are required to satisfy any listed requirements, such as pre- and co-requisites, for enrolment in the subject.

Last updated: 4 March 2025