The maths required for an economics degree

Question

I have a degree in computer science and I wanted to do another degree in economics.

However, my maths have been weak since high school always scoring slightly above passing rate. During my course of study in computer science I have score 60 marks for my maths module (which covers probability, differential equations, mainly on discrete maths topic).

I would like to revisit my high-school and undergrad maths module to prepare myself.

I have found some free online learning materials at: http://rutherglen.science.mq.edu.au/wchen/ln.html

What are the modules should I revisit to improve on my foundations?

Answer 1

If you are doing an undergrad degree, then you likely will need more applied math classes.

You might see classes like algebra, calculus, finite math, business math, differential equations, linear algebra, probability, statistics, complex variables, real analysis, numerical analysis and the like. You might also be required to take some programming courses.

If you are doing a graduate degree, then you likely need more theoretical classes.

Here you can see courses ranging all the way up to game theory, calculus, differential geometry, differential equations, topology and the like.

If you have a particular school in mind, you should certainly look at their requirements and maybe talk to a counselor.

You should also check out some of the wonderful Opencourseware, for example, at MIT.

Lastly, you certainly want to visit your local universities and look at the course requirements and the books in the library.

Answer 2

I would say the most important are multivariate calc, particularly constrained optimimization, linear algebra, and statistics. I agree with Amzoti that if your goal is grad school, more theoretical work is needed, at least real analysis. There are quite a few "math for economists" books, such as Glaister's Mathematical Methods for Economists. Use the books themselves or to get an idea of the topics needed.