PP408
Introduction to Quantitative Methods for the MPA Programme
This information is for the 2023/24 session.
Teacher responsible
The teacher will be announced at the start of the course.
Availability
This course is compulsory on the Double Master of Public Administration (LSE-Columbia), Double Master of Public Administration (LSE-University of Toronto) and Master of Public Administration. This course is not available as an outside option.
Course content
An introduction to basic mathematical and statistical concepts for use in core courses for the above programmes in economics and quantitative approaches. Topics that may be covered include: Statistics: Discrete and continuous random variables, jointly distributed random variables, the Normal distribution, sampling and the Central Limit Theorem, properties of estimators, introduction to hypothesis testing. Mathematics: Linear functions, quadratic, logarithmic and exponential functions, the derivative of a function and rules of differentiation, unconstrained optimization with one variable, functions of several variables and their differentiation, unconstrained optimization with several variables, constrained optimization.
Teaching
The course runs during the two weeks prior to the start of the Autumn Term.
Indicative reading
Students will be advised of readings and other course materials at the beginning of the course.
Assessment
There is no formal assessment for this course.
Key facts
Department: School of Public Policy
Total students 2022/23: 133
Average class size 2022/23: Unavailable
Controlled access 2022/23: No
Value: Non-credit bearing
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
