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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2022 - 2023

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. Interpret and apply the compound interest formula to solve problems in mathematical finance.
5. Complete mathematical tasks (including in an online environment) relating to the mathematical knowledge and skills required in this module.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Online activity20Online content and formative assessments on theory and applications of mathematics in economics and business.
Lecture10Live face-to-face lecture
Tutorial10Live online tutorial.
Independent Study85No Description
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.

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

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

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment60% Examination Weight40%
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 - 8th, Addison-Wesley/Prentice Hall,
  • Anthony Croft and Robert Davison: 2008, Foundation Mathematics, Addison-Wesley,
Other Resources

55433, Drop-in centre, 0, DCU Maths Learning Centre, http://www.dcu.ie/maths/mlc/index.shtml,
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