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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2018 - 2019

Module Title Mathematics for Economics and Business
Module Code MS136
School School of Mathematical Sciences

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Brien NolanOffice NumberX138F
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The principal aim of this module is to equip students with the skills required to analyse and interpret economic and business situations under conditions of change in a rigorous quantitative manner. This involves primarily the study of calculus (the mathematics of change) and its applications to the construction and analysis of mathematical models of economic and business phenomena.

Learning Outcomes

1. Construct and apply mathematical models of problems in economics, business and finance using elementary mathematical functions;
2. Construct and interpret graphs of economic functions for specific classes of mathematical functions, using differential calculus when required;
3. Interpret and apply derivatives, including partial derivatives, of economic functions (marginal functions), especially in optimization problems;
4. Validate mathematical statements relating to economics, business and finance.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Lectures on theory and applications of business mathematics.
Tutorial12Work on exercise sheets, supported by tutors.
Independent Study89Independent work on lecture notes and exercise sheets.
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Functions and their graphs.
Mathematical functions and their graphical representation. Interpretation of graphs. Linear and quadratic functions. Simultaneous linear equations. Economic applications: supply and demand; revenue, cost profit; production functions; national economy models.

Derivatives.
Slopes of lines, curves and the definition of the derivative. Marginal functions and their applications. Methods of differentiation. Drawing graphs using the derivative. Elasticity.

Optimisation.
Solving max/min problems using the derivative. First and second derivative tests for extreme values.

Partial derivatives.
Economic models involving functions of several variables. Partial derivatives. Utility functions, isoquants and indifference curves.

The time value of money.
Percentages. The compound interest formula. Discounting and investment appraisal – net present value and yield.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment15% Examination Weight85%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Ian Jacques: 0, Mathematics for Economics and Business, 2nd - 6th, Addison-Wesley/Prentice Hall,
  • Anthony Croft and Robert Davison: 2008, Foundation Mathematics, Addison-Wesley,
Other Resources

32479, Website, Brien Nolan, 0, Basic Skills Worksheets, http://www.dcu.ie/~nolanb/Basic_Skills.htm, 32480, Drop-in centre, 0, DCU Maths Learning Centre, http://www.dcu.ie/maths/mlc/index.shtml,
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