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George Kapetanios

This course provides the essential mathematics required to succeed in the finance and economics related modules of the Global MBA, including equations, functions, derivatives, and matrices. You can test your understanding with quizzes and worksheets, while more advanced content will be available if you want to push yourself.

This course forms part of a specialisation from the University of London designed to help you develop and build the essential business, academic, and cultural skills necessary to succeed in international business, or in further study.

Read more

This course provides the essential mathematics required to succeed in the finance and economics related modules of the Global MBA, including equations, functions, derivatives, and matrices. You can test your understanding with quizzes and worksheets, while more advanced content will be available if you want to push yourself.

This course forms part of a specialisation from the University of London designed to help you develop and build the essential business, academic, and cultural skills necessary to succeed in international business, or in further study.

If completed successfully, your certificate from this specialisation can also be used as part of the application process for the University of London Global MBA programme, particularly for early career applicants. If you would like more information about the Global MBA, please visit https://mba.london.ac.uk/.

This course is endorsed by CMI

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What's inside

Syllabus

Equations
Although financial models are theoretical frameworks, we often use mathematical tools to work with these models. Mathematical models usually consist of a set of equations, which are designed to describe the structure of the model, and whose solution determines the importance of variables. This week, we will look at equations, including the basic terminology, and the rules for solving equations requiring more than one operation.
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Functions
Functions are important in every area of pure and applied mathematics, including mathematics applied to economics, finance and business. For example, the language of economic analysis is full of terms like demand and supply functions, cost functions, production functions, consumption functions, and so on. This week, we will present a discussion of functions of one real variable, illustrated by some economic examples. Remember- one variable is a function of another if the first variable depends upon the second.
Derivatives
An important topic in many scientific disciplines- including economics- is the study of how quickly quantities change. The concept used to describe the rate of change of a function is known as the derivative. In this lecture, we will define the derivative of a function, and share some of the important rules for calculating it.
Matrices
The analysis and even the comprehension of systems of linear equations is much easier when we use key mathematic concepts such as matrices, vectors, and determinants. This week, we’ll introduce these concepts and explain their application to economic models

Good to know

Know what's good
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, and possible dealbreakers
Provides essential mathematics for success in finance and economics related modules
Covers equations, functions, derivatives, and matrices
Forms part of a specialisation from the University of London
Can be used as part of the application process for the University of London Global MBA programme
Endorsed by CMI

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Reviews summary

Math refresher for business

Learners say that Quantitative Foundations for International Business is a good math refresher course, especially for those who need to brush up on their algebra. The lectures are clear and concise, and the quizzes are helpful for reinforcing the material. However, some students found the course to be too basic and would have liked more real-world examples of how the math concepts are applied in business. Overall, this course is a good option for students who need a quick review of basic math concepts. And while it is not a terribly difficult course, be warned that many learners found the exams to be tricky.
Course is relatively easy.
"All the information is really obvious and examples are explained in a super descriptive way."
"This course is not a terribly difficult course."
Good for brushing up on math skills.
"Especially for those who need to brush up on their algebra."
"The content of this course simply repeats lessons from high school."
"This course is a good option for students who need a quick review of basic math concepts."
Explanations are clear and understandable.
"The lectures are clear and concise."
"All given information is understandable with examples."
"This course helps to refresh your knowledge in a brief and practical way."
Instructor is not the best.
"The lecturer, Elanora Muzzapappa, I'm sure is an incredible professional and academic but has no skills in speaking or lecturing."
"It always seems like she was reading from some prompter and she even made clumsy mistakes along the course."
More examples would be helpful.
"It would be better if business use cases and examples were embedded within the teaching."
"The instructors could have to a better job at explaining some of the complicated concepts talked about in this course."
"Some students found the course to be too basic and would have liked more real-world examples of how the math concepts are applied in business."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Quantitative Foundations for International Business with these activities:
Form a Study Group for Finance Concepts
Engage in collaborative learning and discussion with peers to reinforce your understanding of finance concepts.
Show steps
  • Find a group of classmates with similar interests.
  • Set regular meeting times and locations.
  • Prepare discussion topics and questions in advance.
  • Facilitate discussions, share insights, and ask clarifying questions.
Organize course materials
Organizing your course materials will help you stay on top of the course content and make it easier to review for exams.
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing your notes, assignments, and other course materials.
  • Review your materials regularly to reinforce your learning.
Review lecture notes and quizzes
Reinforce your understanding of the core concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Mathematics
Show steps
  • Read through all lecture notes for each module
  • Attend office hours to clarify any doubts
  • Review all the quizzes and assignments
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Explore Khan Academy resources
Strengthen your mathematical skills through interactive tutorials.
Browse courses on Algebra
Show steps
  • Identify areas where you need additional support
  • Search for relevant tutorials on Khan Academy
  • Complete the tutorials at your own pace
  • Test your understanding through practice exercises
Practice equation solving
Practicing equation solving will strengthen your understanding of the basic mathematical operations and help you develop critical thinking skills.
Browse courses on Equations
Show steps
  • Start with simple equations and gradually increase the complexity.
  • Use a variety of equation solving techniques, such as substitution, elimination, and factoring.
  • Check your answers by plugging them back into the original equation.
Follow tutorials on matrix operations
Following tutorials on matrix operations will provide you with a solid foundation in the mathematical operations related to matrices.
Browse courses on Matrices
Show steps
  • Find tutorials that clearly explain the concepts of matrix addition, subtraction, multiplication, and inversion.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key steps and formulas.
  • Practice solving matrix problems using the methods learned in the tutorials.
Watch Video Tutorials on Financial Analysis Techniques
Supplement your learning by watching video tutorials on specific financial analysis techniques.
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Coursera.
  • Choose tutorials that align with the course topics.
  • Take notes and summarize the key takeaways.
  • Apply the techniques to practical financial problems.
Solve practice problems
Enhance your problem-solving abilities and solidify your grasp of mathematical concepts.
Browse courses on Equations
Show steps
  • Gather practice problems from textbooks or online resources
  • Allocate dedicated time for solving these problems
  • Check your solutions against provided answers
  • Analyze your mistakes and identify areas for improvement
Work out derivatives
Practicing derivatives will help you develop a deeper understanding of the concept and its applications.
Browse courses on Derivatives
Show steps
  • Start with simple functions and gradually increase the complexity.
  • Use different derivative rules, such as the power rule, product rule, and quotient rule.
  • Check your answers using numerical or graphical methods.
Watch videos on applied functions
Watching videos on applied functions will help you understand how functions are used to model real-world phenomena.
Browse courses on Functions
Show steps
  • Find videos that explain how functions are used in economics, finance, or other fields related to your interests.
  • Watch the videos and take notes on the key concepts and applications.
  • Discuss the videos with a classmate or study group.
Read 'Mathematics for Economics and Finance' by Michael Hoy
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the mathematical concepts used in economics and finance, covering topics such as functions, derivatives, and matrices.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly and take notes on the key concepts.
  • Work through the practice problems and exercises in the book.
  • Discuss the concepts with a classmate or study group.
Develop a Financial Model for a Business Plan
Apply your understanding of financial concepts to create a practical financial model for a business plan.
Browse courses on Financial Modeling
Show steps
  • Define the purpose and scope of the financial model.
  • Gather and analyze financial data from the business.
  • Develop assumptions and forecasts for key financial variables.
  • Build the financial model using a spreadsheet or modeling software.
  • Analyze the results and make recommendations based on the financial model.
Develop a financial model
Apply the mathematical concepts learned in the course to a real-world business scenario.
Browse courses on Financial Modeling
Show steps
  • Choose a specific business or industry
  • Identify the relevant financial data and assumptions
  • Construct a financial model using spreadsheets or software
  • Analyze the results and draw insights
  • Present your findings in a clear and concise manner
Solve practice problems
Solving practice problems will help you apply the mathematical concepts you've learned in class and identify areas where you need further practice.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems from your textbook, online sources, or practice exams.
  • Solve the problems and check your answers using the provided solutions or answer keys.
  • Identify the problems that you struggled with and focus on practicing those concepts.
Build a financial model
Building a financial model will allow you to apply the mathematical concepts you've learned in this course in a practical setting.
Browse courses on Financial Modeling
Show steps
  • Choose a project that aligns with your interests and career goals.
  • Research the relevant financial concepts and data.
  • Build a financial model in a spreadsheet or other software.
  • Analyze the results of your model and make recommendations.

Career center

Learners who complete Quantitative Foundations for International Business will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Quantitative Analyst
Financial institutions, such as investment banks and hedge funds, employ hundreds of thousands of Quantitative Analysts globally. These roles help support portfolio managers and traders by using mathematical and statistical models to assess financial risk and provide guidance on investment decisions. Those who have a firm grounding in mathematics, statistics, and computer programming may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of finance.
Actuary
Actuaries are responsible for assessing financial risk and uncertainty. They use mathematical and statistical models to predict the likelihood and impact of uncertain events, such as death, disability, or property damage. Those who are interested in a career as an actuary may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of risk and uncertainty.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use mathematical and statistical models to extract knowledge from data. They work in a variety of industries, such as finance, healthcare, and retail. Those who are interested in a career as a data scientist may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of data analysis.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to solve complex problems in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Those who are interested in a career as an Operations Research Analyst may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of optimization.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial data and make investment recommendations. They work in a variety of industries, such as investment banking, asset management, and corporate finance. Those who are interested in a career as a Financial Analyst may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of finance.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers use mathematical and statistical models to identify, assess, and manage financial risk. They work in a variety of industries, such as finance, insurance, and healthcare. Those who are interested in a career as a Risk Manager may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of risk management.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants use mathematical and statistical techniques to help businesses solve complex problems and improve their performance. They work in a variety of industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Those who are interested in a career as a Management Consultant may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of business analysis.
Economist
Economists use mathematical and statistical models to analyze economic data and make predictions about the economy. They work in a variety of industries, such as government, academia, and business. Those who are interested in a career as an Economist may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of economics.
Statistician
Statisticians use mathematical and statistical models to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They work in a variety of industries, such as healthcare, finance, and marketing. Those who are interested in a career as a Statistician may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of statistics.
Market Researcher
Market Researchers use mathematical and statistical techniques to collect, analyze, and interpret data about consumer behavior. They work in a variety of industries, such as marketing, product development, and sales. Those who are interested in a career as a Market Researcher may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of market research.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze data and make recommendations to improve performance. They work in a variety of industries, such as finance, healthcare, and retail. Those who are interested in a career as a Data Analyst may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of data analysis.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze business data and make recommendations to improve performance. They work in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Those who are interested in a career as a Business Analyst may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of business analysis.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers use mathematical and statistical techniques to design, develop, and test software systems. They work in a variety of industries, such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Those who are interested in a career as a Software Engineer may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of software development.
Quantitative Trader
Quantitative Traders use mathematical and statistical techniques to develop and execute trading strategies. They work in a variety of industries, such as investment banking, hedge funds, and proprietary trading firms. Those who are interested in a career as a Quantitative Trader may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of trading.
Financial Engineer
Financial Engineers use mathematical and statistical techniques to develop and price financial products. They work in a variety of industries, such as investment banking, asset management, and insurance. Those who are interested in a career as a Financial Engineer may find Quantitative Foundations for International Business particularly useful as it can help build a foundation in the mathematics of finance.

Reading list

We've selected 18 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Quantitative Foundations for International Business.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of mathematical methods used in economics.
Provides a thorough introduction to linear algebra, which branch of mathematics that is used extensively in economics and business. It covers topics such as matrices, vectors, determinants, and eigenvalues.
Provides a comprehensive overview of mathematical methods used in business and economics.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to linear algebra, which fundamental mathematical tool used in various fields, including economics and business.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of mathematical methods used in the social sciences, including economics and business.
Provides a solid foundation in calculus, which branch of mathematics that is used to study change. It covers topics such as limits, derivatives, integrals, and applications of calculus to economics and business.
Provides a rigorous introduction to econometrics, which branch of economics that uses statistical methods to analyze economic data. It covers topics such as regression analysis, time series analysis, and panel data analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in finance, including topics such as probability, statistics, and calculus. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in finance.
Provides a practical overview of the mathematics used in business, including topics such as algebra, geometry, and statistics. It good reference for students who need a refresher on the basics of mathematics or who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in business.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in the life sciences, including topics such as statistics, calculus, and differential equations. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in the life sciences.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in the social sciences, including topics such as statistics, calculus, and differential equations. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in the social sciences.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in computer science, including topics such as discrete mathematics, probability, and statistics. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in computer science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in physics, including topics such as calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in the physical sciences, including topics such as calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in the physical sciences.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the mathematics used in the biosciences, including topics such as statistics, calculus, and differential equations. It good reference for students who want to learn more about the applications of mathematics in the biosciences.

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