Mathematical Game Theory (MAST90137)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 1 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
Game theory is a branch of mathematics where the interactions between rational decision makers (players) are modelled and analysed. Game theory can broadly be divided into the study of noncooperative games and cooperative games. For noncooperative games we study two-player games, games in extensive form, games of perfect and imperfect information, games with complete and incomplete information, games with chance moves, repeated games, and Bayesian games. To analyse these games we introduce the concepts of Nash equilibria, evolutionary stable strategies, subgame perfect equilibria, and Harsanyi games. For cooperative games we study coalitional games with transferable utility, and introduce the concepts of coalitions, characteristic functions, the core, the Shapley value, and the nucleolus. We discuss in detail the well known Bonderava-Shapley theorem which gives conditions for the nonemptyness of the core. This subject provides a rigorous mathematical treatment of game theory, and will include applications selected from queueing theory, biology, population dynamics, resource allocation, auction theory, political science, and military applications.
Intended learning outcomes
After completing this subject, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts and techniques for modelling and analysing noncooperative and cooperative games;
- Demonstrate their developed skills needed to solve problems in game theory from a rigorous mathematical perspective;
- Analyse and solve problems in noncooperative and cooperative game theory;
- Develop and analyse game theoretical models in areas where game theory can be applied; and
- Pursue further studies in game theory and related areas.
Generic skills
In addition to learning specific skills that will assist students in their future careers in science, they will have the opportunity to develop generic skills that will assist them in any future career path. These include:
- Problem-solving skills: the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies;
- Analytical skills: the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis;
- Collaborative skills: the ability to work in a team; and
- Time-management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAST30022 | Decision Making | Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Or equivalent.
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Recommended background knowledge
MAST20004 Probability or MAST20006 Probability for Statistics, and MAST20018 Discrete Maths and Operations Research, or equivalent.
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
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
4 assignments worth 10% each in weeks 5, 7, 9, 11
| Throughout the teaching period | 40% |
Written examination
| During the examination period | 60% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Coordinator Mark Fackrell Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 3 one-hour interactive lectures per week Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 3 March 2025 to 1 June 2025 Last self-enrol date 14 March 2025 Census date 31 March 2025 Last date to withdraw without fail 9 May 2025 Assessment period ends 27 June 2025 Semester 1 contact information
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
- 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
Last updated: 4 March 2025