MA108 Half Unit
Methods in Calculus and Linear Algebra
This information is for the 2025/26 session.
Course Convenor
Dr Ioannis Kouletsis
Availability
This course is compulsory on the BSc in Finance. This course is available on the BSc in Accounting and Finance, BSc in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, BSc in Economics, BSc in Philosophy and Economics, BSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, BSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (with a Year Abroad), Erasmus Reciprocal Programme of Study and Exchange Programme for Students from University of California, Berkeley. This course is not available as an outside option to students on other programmes. This course is freely available to General Course students. It does not require permission.
Requisites
Mutually exclusive courses:
This course cannot be taken with MA100 or MA207 or MA107 at any time on the same degree programme.
Course content
This is an introductory level course for those who wish to use mathematics seriously in finance or economics. A range of basic mathematical concepts and methods in calculus of one and several variables and in linear algebra are covered and some applications illustrated. It is an essential pre-requisite for any mathematically orientated economics options and for many further mathematics courses. Topics covered: One-variable calculus including inverse functions, local inverses, critical points, optimisation, integration and differential equations, Functions of several variables including derivatives, gradients, tangent hyperplanes, directional derivatives, classification of critical points, convexity, concavity, unconstrained optimisation and Lagrange's method, Matrices including determinants, reduced row echelon form and rank, Systems of linear equations including Gaussian elimination and analysis of solution sets, Vector spaces including subspaces, linear independence, linear span, basis and dimension, Linear transformations including diagonalisation. Some applications of the above topics.
Teaching
30 hours of lectures and 10 hours of classes in the Autumn Term.
Formative assessment
Students will be expected to attempt a number of weekly self-study exercises (and check their answers using solutions provided) in preparation for their classes. Classwork will be submitted weekly to the appropriate class teacher for marking and feedback. In addition, Home Assignments with Exam-Style Questions will be submitted for marking and feedback at regular intervals throughout the year. Success in this paper depends on dealing with the written work as it is assigned, in a regular and systematic manner.
Indicative reading
Ken Binmore & Joan Davies, Calculus, Concepts and Methods; Martin Anthony & Michele Harvey, Linear Algebra, Concepts and Methods.
Assessment
Exam (100%), duration: 120 Minutes, reading time: 15 minutes in the January exam period
Key facts
Department: Mathematics
Course Study Period: Autumn Term
Unit value: Half unit
FHEQ Level: Level 4
CEFR Level: Null
Total students 2024/25: 203
Average class size 2024/25: 14
Capped 2024/25: NoCourse selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Personal development skills
- Problem solving
- Application of numeracy skills