Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - ECON 798 G100

Introduction to Mathematical Economics (4)

Class Number: 2031

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: TBA, TBA
    Burnaby

    Location: TBA

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Applications of static optimization techniques, matrix algebra, differential and difference equations in economic models. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.

COURSE DETAILS:

Description

This course reviews/introduces some important mathematical concepts and techniques commonly used in economic analysis and the core graduate theory courses. The main purpose is to brush up your math background so that you can focus on the economic intuition in your next classes.

The course will be taught on an intensive everyday basis in a two-week period beginning the last week of August. The material will include theory and proofs as well as solving example problems and applications to economics. All incoming M.A. students must enroll.

Topics to be covered include

  1. Notation, logic, methods of proof, basic set theory.
  2. Elements of analysis
  3. Linear algebra and matrices
  4. Unconstrained and constrained single and multiple variable optimization
  5. Introduction to dynamic programming
  6. Probability theory and basic statistics

Grading

  • Final Exam 100%

NOTES:

The grading system will be subject to change.

A final examination will be given. The course is graded Pass/Fail

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no specific textbook for the course. Detailed class notes will be provided.

The books listed below cover most of the material (and much more) and could be used as references. Since the course will proceed rapidly and a lot of its contents is hopefully material you have covered before, you are encouraged to review what you can before the course begins.

  • Alpha Chiang and Kevin Wainwright, Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics, McGraw-Hill, 2005.
  • Stephen Glaister, Mathematical Methods for Economists, Blackwell Publishing, 1984
  • Eugene Silberberg, The Structure of Economics: A Mathematical Analysis, McGraw-Hill, 2000.
  • Carl Simon and Lawrence Blume, Mathematics for Economists, WW Norton and Co., 1994

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.