DRE 7017 Mathematics, Ph.D.

DRE 7017 Mathematics, Ph.D.

Course code: 
DRE 7017
Department: 
Economics
Credits: 
4
Course coordinator: 
Eivind Eriksen
Course name in Norwegian: 
Mathematics, Ph.D.
Product category: 
PhD
Portfolio: 
PhD Economics courses
Semester: 
2022 Autumn
Active status: 
Active
Level of study: 
PhD
Teaching language: 
English
Course type: 
One semester
Introduction

The language of mathematics is extensively used to analyse problems in economics and finance, and mathematical models, theories, and methods are extensively used to solve problems. The mathematical requirements of a doctoral student go beyond the material usually taught in courses at the bachelor and master level, and this course will teach the beginning doctoral student more advanced mathematical models, theories, and methods. Topics include linear algebra and matrix methods, introduction to function spaces and functional analysis, optimisation in several real variables, differential and difference equations, optimal control theory, and fixed point theory.

The course is designed for students in the following programmes:
Ph.D. specialisation in Economics
Ph.D. specialisation in Finance

Learning outcomes - Knowledge

After completing the course, the student will have advanced knowledge of mathematical concepts, models, theories, and methods. The student will have an advanced understanding of selected mathematical topics, and specialized understanding of how mathematical models and methods can be used in economics and finance.  

Learning outcomes - Skills

After completing the course, the student will be able to analyse quantitative problems using the mathematical language, and be able to use mathematical models and methods to solve these problems. The student will be able to assess solution strategies, be able to carry out necessary computations correctly and precisely. The student will be able to give mathematical arguments for his conclusions, and be able to formulate written answers that explain the methods used and interpret the solutions obtained. The students will be able to see connections between mathematics and other subjects, especially economics and finance. 

General Competence

After completing the course, the student will be able to reflect upon central assumptions for the models and theories used, and critically assess if they are met in applications. The student will be capable of critical thinking. The student will be able to reflect upon the results obtained, and critically assess if they are reasonable.

Course content

The course will be based around the following topics:

  • Sets and point set topology
  • Vectors and linear algebra
  • Real analysis in one and several variables
  • Unconstrained and constrained optimization
  • Correspondences and fixed points
  • Differential equations and dynamical systems
  • Control theory in continuous and discrete time
Teaching and learning activities

There will be twelve lectures, and a program for each lecture will be given (including reading assignments and exercises). 

Software tools
No specified computer-based tools are required.
Additional information

Mathematical software may be used during lectures for illustration purposes.

Qualifications

Enrollment in a PhD Programme is a general requirement for participation in PhD courses at BI Norwegian Business School.
External candidates are kindly asked to attach confirmation of enrollment in a PhD programme when signing up for a course. Other candidates may be allowed to sit in on courses by approval of the courseleader. Sitting in on a course does not permit registration for the course, handing in exams or gaining credits for the course. Course certificates or confirmation letters will not be issued for sitting in on courses.

Disclaimer

Deviations in teaching and exams may occur if external conditions or unforeseen events call for this.

Required prerequisite knowledge

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Exam categoryWeightInvigilationDurationSupport materialsGroupingComment exam
Exam category:
Submission
Form of assessment:
Written submission
Exam code:
DRE 70171
Grading scale:
ECTS
Grading rules:
Two examiners
Resit:
Examination when next scheduled course
100Yes3 Hour(s)
  • BI-approved exam calculator
  • Simple calculator
  • Bilingual dictionary
Individual
Exams:
Exam category:Submission
Form of assessment:Written submission
Weight:100
Invigilation:Yes
Grouping (size):Individual
Support materials:
  • BI-approved exam calculator
  • Simple calculator
  • Bilingual dictionary
Duration:3 Hour(s)
Comment:
Exam code:DRE 70171
Grading scale:ECTS
Resit:Examination when next scheduled course
Type of Assessment: 
Ordinary examination
Total weight: 
100
Student workload
ActivityDurationComment
Teaching
20 Hour(s)
Lectures
Examination
3 Hour(s)
Exam 3h
Student's own work with learning resources
97 Hour(s)
Own work with theory and problems
Sum workload: 
120

A course of 1 ECTS credit corresponds to a workload of 26-30 hours. Therefore a course of 4 ECTS credit corresponds to a workload of at least 110 hours.