Modern economic theory is based on mathematical models. Thus, a thorough understanding of the economic content of such models is not possible without a clear understanding of optimisation techniques that underpin the modeling. Course introduces students to a range of optimisation concepts and techniques for economics and financial economics that form the basis of advanced economic theory courses. The introduced concepts and techniques will be derived from basic principles and assumptions as thoroughly as possible, and will be illustrated using standard applications from economics.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Understand the mathematical methods that are most widely used in economics, both from a formal, abstract perspective, and an intuitive perspective.
- Know how to read, understand, and construct mathematical proofs, and appreciate their role in the derivation of mathematical concepts and structures.
- Apply mathematical methods and techniques that are formulated in abstract settings to concrete economic applications.
Other Information
This course will replace ECON6015 Optimisation Techniques for Economists in the Graduate Diploma of Economics program in 2015.
Indicative Assessment
- Two midterms worth 20% eachand one end-of-semester examination (60%) (20) [LO null]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
12 hours (3 lectures+1 tutorial+8 self)Inherent Requirements
Not applicable
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
None specified
Assumed Knowledge
Students who would like to review pre-requisite material before starting ECON6015/ECON8013 may look at textbooks such as Essential Mathematics for Economics and Business by Teresa Bradley (fourth edition 2013) or Essential Mathematics for Economic Analysis by Knut Sydsæter and Peter Hammond (fourth edition 2012).
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 34
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $4680 | Standard Rate |
| 2024 | $3720 |
Grandfathered Rate*
*continuing students in nominated programs only. See fee website |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $6000 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8248 | 21 Jul 2025 | 28 Jul 2025 | 31 Aug 2025 | 24 Oct 2025 | In Person | N/A |
