Program Overview
Program Overview
The program in question is "Matematik A" (Mathematics A), which is a compulsory course in the first semester of the Bachelor's program in Economics at the University of Copenhagen.
Course Description
The course introduces fundamental mathematical analysis with a focus on its application in economics and related fields. The main topics covered include:
- Basic mathematical prerequisites, such as logic, proof techniques, and set theory; algebra and solving equations and inequalities.
- Functions of one variable, including special functions (polynomials, power functions, exponential and logarithmic functions), differential calculus and its applications (including optimization), and integral calculus and its applications.
- Interest rate calculations, sequences, and infinite series, including compound interest and annuities; convergence of sequences and series, including quotient tests.
- Functions of two or more variables, including basic concepts (level curves, graphs, and geometric representation), partial derivatives and their applications (including elasticities and implicit differentiation), and optimization with and without constraints.
Course Objectives
After completing the course, students are expected to be able to:
- Recite and explain central definitions, results, and relationships within basic mathematical analysis.
- Understand and have an overview of relevant concepts, results, and methods within the course topics in connection with solving concrete problems.
- Apply concepts, results, and methods within the course topics to solve concrete problems.
- Present the solution to concrete problems in a clear and precise language and with appropriate graphical representations.
- Acquire mathematical material at the level of the course content, especially with a view to later application within economics and related fields.
Teaching Methods
The course consists of lectures and class instruction. Students are expected to prepare and participate actively in the teaching.
Course Materials
The main textbook is "Essential Mathematics for Economic Analysis" by Sydsæter, Hammond, Strøm, and Carvajal (6th edition, Pearson, 2021). Additional material may be provided.
Academic Requirements
Recommended academic prerequisites include A-level mathematics from a secondary education or equivalent. Formal academic requirements are the admission requirements for the Economics program.
Examination
The examination is a written on-site exam with supervision, lasting 3 hours. To participate in the exam, students must have submitted and had approved 7 out of 8 mandatory homework assignments. The exam is graded on a 7-point scale, and there is no external censorship.
Re-examination
The re-examination follows the same format as the ordinary examination. To be eligible for the re-examination, students must have had 7 out of 8 homework assignments approved.
Assessment Criteria
The assessment criteria are based on the course objectives. To achieve the highest grade (12), students must demonstrate an excellent presentation with no or only minor insignificant errors, showing that they meet the course objectives and the specified points for knowledge, skills, and competencies. To achieve the passing grade (02), students must demonstrate a satisfactory performance, showing a minimally acceptable degree of fulfillment of the course objectives and the specified points for knowledge, skills, and competencies.
Course Type and Duration
The course is a single-subject daytime course (full-time study) lasting one semester, with a total workload of 275 hours, including 56 hours of lectures, 45 hours of class instruction, 171 hours of preparation, and 3 hours of examination.
Language and Level
The course is taught in Danish and is at the Bachelor's level, with 10 ECTS credits.
Department and Faculty
The course is offered by the Department of Economics, which is part of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Copenhagen.