Course syllabus - Degree Project in Mathematics

Objectives

This degree project should develop the ability to formulate and to work independently with a problem belonging to the area of mathematica/applied mathematics and corresponds with the content of the Master programme Financial Engineering. The project should show that a graduate of the programme or a student with similar background can use the knowledge acquired during the studies for realisation of the Master degree project related to the content of the programme. Finally the project should develop the ability of the student to make oral and written presentations of the knowledge and results obtained.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the preparation of the degree project the student is expected to be able to
- show comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts and the mathematical models and methods used in the valuation of financial instruments and their derivatives, and be able to explain their assumptions and limitations.
- prepare a thesis that correctly and clearly presents the results of the degree project.
- present in the thesis a survey of relevant literature and other sources of information used in the project and to give correctly the corresponding references.
- give in the thesis clear mathematical description of the models and data studied in the project as well as the corresponding algorithms and software.
- carry out a comprehensive computer based experimental investigation of data, models, algorithms and software which are treated in the project and comment the results.
- prepare and to make a clear seminar presentation of the results of the project.

Course content

The larger part of the degree project is based on an independent study, which includes a mathematical description of the models and data studied in the project, the corresponding algorithms and software as well as results of the corresponding experimental computer based studies. The project may also include studies of the relevant literature and seminars. A supervisor is appointed to each student. Before the works start, it has to be shortly described in a written work plan which shall be approved by the supervisor. The student(s) will present the results of the project in the thesis that should contain all necessary parts (title page, abstract, table of contents, introduction, the main text presenting the content of the project, conclusion, list of references) and report them at a special seminar. The thesis must be written, and the oral presentation in the seminar must be held, in English.

Tuition

Establishing of a plan, which is signed by the student(s) and supervisor(s), outlining the process and a time schedule for it. Continuous supervision of one or several supervisors.

Specific requirements

A completed degree project for a degree which may be awarded on completion of 180 higher education credits. Non-overlapping courses in Mathematics/Applied Mathematics with a total sum of at least 105 credits, excluding previous degree projects, of which at least 15 credits must relate to courses on the advanced level. In addition Swedish course B/Swedish course 3 and English course A/English course 6 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course B/Swedish course 3.

Examination

UPS1, Degree project including oral presentation, 15 credits, marks Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG).

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

The student is entitled to a maximum of 35 hours of supervision. When two students carry out a joint degree project the total time used for supervision (regardless if it concerns one of the students or both) is a maximum of 55 hours.
The maximum number of times that a student can take an examination is five.