Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - ECON 331 D100

Introduction to Mathematical Economics (5)

Class Number: 1791

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ECON 103 with a minimum grade of C- OR ECON 113 with a minimum grade of B-; MATH 150, MATH 151, MATH 154, or MATH 157, with a minimum grade of C-; 45 units or permission of the department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The mathematical interpretation of fundamental economic concepts; demand, supply competitive equilibrium . Application of the calculus to production and distribution theory, growth models and investment theory. Differential and difference equations in dynamic economic models. Introduction to activity analysis. Students with credit for MATH 232, 240 or 251 cannot complete this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course develops tools of mathematical reasoning, matrix algebra, multivariable calculus, unconstrained and constrained optimization, and their applications in economics.

Topics:

  1. Fundamentals
  2. Matrix Algebra
  3. Multivariable calculus
  4. Unconstrained optimization
  5. Constrained optimization

Grading

  • Participation 15%
  • Quizzes 35%
  • Midterm Exam 25%
  • Final Exam 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Hoy, M, J. Livernois, C. McKenna, R. Rees, and T. Stengos. 2022. Mathematics for Economics. Fourth edition.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Please note that, as per Policy T20.01, the course requirements (and grading scheme) outlined here are subject to change up until the end of the first week of classes.

Final exam schedules will be released during the second month of classes. If your course has a final exam, please ensure that you are available during the entire final exam period until you receive confirmation of your exam dates. 

Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) at 778-782-3112 or caladmin@sfu.ca.

***NO TUTORIALS DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES***

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.