PP408     
Introduction to Quantitative Methods for the MPA Programme

This information is for the 2023/24 session.

Teacher responsible

The teacher will be announced at the start of the course.

Availability

This course is compulsory on the Double Master of Public Administration (LSE-Columbia), Double Master of Public Administration (LSE-University of Toronto) and Master of Public Administration. This course is not available as an outside option.

Course content

An introduction to basic mathematical and statistical concepts for use in core courses for the above programmes in economics and quantitative approaches. Topics that may be covered include: Statistics: Discrete and continuous random variables, jointly distributed random variables, the Normal distribution, sampling and the Central Limit Theorem, properties of estimators, introduction to hypothesis testing. Mathematics: Linear functions, quadratic, logarithmic and exponential functions, the derivative of a function and rules of differentiation, unconstrained optimization with one variable, functions of several variables and their differentiation, unconstrained optimization with several variables, constrained optimization.

Teaching

The course runs during the two weeks prior to the start of the Autumn Term. 

Indicative reading

Students will be advised of readings and other course materials at the beginning of the course.

Assessment

There is no formal assessment for this course. 

Key facts

Department: School of Public Policy

Total students 2022/23: 133

Average class size 2022/23: Unavailable

Controlled access 2022/23: No

Value: Non-credit bearing

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

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