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Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

Mathematics for Economists

Semester 1-2 · 27356 · Bachelor in Economics and Management · 12CP · EN


M1: The course "Mathematics for Economists M1" deals with basic mathematical concepts like sets, relations, functions, numbers, limits and absolute values. Moreover we will introduce functions of one variable by studying their basic properties, derivatives and their calculus, Taylor approximations and the Newton's method. We will also address the single-variable optimization (Fermat's rule and sufficient optimality conditions) and the elements of integration.

M2: In this course we study linear algebra and functions of several variables.

Lecturers: Martin Meier, Paolo Maraner

Teaching Hours: 36+36
Lab Hours: 60+60

Course Topics
M1: Sets, relations, functions. Basic algebra, numbers, approximations, sequences and their limits, series, geometric series. Real functions (polynomial, rational, irrational, exponential and logarithmic functions), limits of functions, differentiation,Taylor approximations, Newton’s method, convexity, single variable optimization, integration. M2: 1. Matrix calculus, rank and linear independence, systems of linear equations, Gaussian elimination, applications. 2. Functions of several variables: gradients, Hesse matrices, Taylor approximation, convexity. 3. Multivariable optimization, Lagrange method and economic applications. Simple least square regression. 4. If enough time remains: Basics of probability theory.

Propaedeutic courses
none

Teaching format
Lectures and exercise sessions

Educational objectives
ILO 1 Knowledge and understanding ILO 1.1 knowledge of basic and intermediate level mathematical tools for understanding and analysing economic mechanisms through theoretical models and empirical applications ILO 2 Apply knowledge and understanding ILO 2.1 know how to analyse (unconstrained) optimisation problems and mathematically interpret models of social and economic dynamics ILO2.2 knowing how to work with basic and intermediate level mathematical and basic level statistical tools to study the behaviour of economic subjects, from a theoretical and empirical point of view ILO 3 Making judgements ILO 3.1 choose the most appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis ILO 4 Learning skills ILO 4.1 analyse, critically process and integrate data, information and future experience, also using advanced software

Assessment
M1: A written final exam (questions and problems to solve) which counts 100% for the M1 partial grade. ILO 1.1, ILO 2.1, ILO 3.1, ILO 4.1. M2: A written final exam (questions and problems to solve) which counts 100% for the M2 partial grade. ILO 1.1, ILO 2.1, ILO 3.1, ILO 4.1. The final mark is the average of the marks of M1 and M2 - There is no different assessment for attending and non-attending students.

Evaluation criteria
Final grade: 50% grade for M1 partial grade, 50% for M2 partial grade. The results of assignments and partial exams are only valid for the academic year in question. They cannot be carried over beyond that time frame.

Required readings

Lecture Slides that will be uploaded in the reserve collection.



Supplementary readings

None.




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Sustainable Development Goals
This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the following Sustainable Development Goals.

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Modules

Semester 1 · 27356A · Bachelor in Economics and Management · 6CP · EN

Module A — Mathematics for Economists 1

The course "Mathematics for Economists M1" deals with basic mathematical concepts like sets, relations, functions, numbers, limits and absolute values. Moreover we will introduce functions of one variable by studying their basic properties, derivatives and their calculus, Taylor approximations and the Newton's method. We will also address the single-variable optimization (Fermat's rule and sufficient optimality conditions) and the elements of integration.

Lecturers: Martin Meier

Teaching Hours: 36
Lab Hours: 60

Course Topics
Sets, relations, functions. Basic algebra, numbers, approximations, sequences and their limits, series, geometric series. Real functions (polynomial, rational, irrational, exponential and logarithmic functions), limits of functions, differentiation,Taylor approximations, Newton’s method, convexity, single variable optimization, integration.

Teaching format
Lectures and exercise sessions.

Required readings

Lecture notes provided in due course (available in the Reserve Collection). 



Semester 2 · 27356B · Bachelor in Economics and Management · 6CP · EN

Module B — Mathematics for Economists 2

In this course we study linear algebra and functions of several variables.

Lecturers: Martin Meier

Teaching Hours: 36
Lab Hours: 60

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