Course syllabus - Foundations of Real Analysis
Scope
7.5 credits
Course code
MMA503
Valid from
Autumn semester 2026
Education level
Second cycle
Progressive Specialisation
A1N (Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements)
Main area(s)
Mathematics/Applied Mathematics
Organisation
Department of Business and Mathematics
Ratified
2013-02-01
Revised
2025-11-03
Literature lists
Course literature is preliminary up to 8 weeks before course start. Course literature can be valid over several semesters.
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Books
Objectives
The course Foundations of Real Analysis aims at consolidating and deepening the students' knowledge of mathematical analysis acquired in elementary courses, and to prepare students for higher studies in mathematics, physics and technology.
Learning outcomes
At the end of the course the student is expected to be able to
- explain the basic concepts used in describing metric spaces topologically.
- conclude whether sequences in metric spaces are convergent or not.
- apply the concept of continuity for mappings between metric spaces.
- apply the concept of differentiation for real functions. Special attention is paid to Taylor's theorem and special cases of it.
- conclude for which functions the Riemann-Stieltjes integral exists.
- conclude whether sequences of functions and series of functions are uniformly convergent or not, and to be able to apply this with respect to continuity, differentiability and integrability.
- with the precise definitions of fundamental concepts occurring in mathematical analysis, in a logical correct way carry out and explain reasoning and proofs.
Course content
The real number system. The concept of convergence in metric spaces. The epsilon-delta definition of a limit, proofs of limit theorems. Basic topology: Countable, uncountable, compact, perfect, and connected sets. Numerical sequences and series: Convergence, upper and lower limits, convergence (criteria) of series, power series, absolute convergence, rearrangements. Continuity, uniform continuity, continuity and compactness, continuity and connectedness, discontinuities, monotonic functions. The derivative of a real function, mean value theorem, Taylor's theorem. The Riemann-Stieltjes integral, the fundamental theorem of calculus. Sequences and series of functions. Uniform convergence.
Specific requirements
At least totally 120 credits in the engineering, natural sciences, business administration or economics areas including Calculus of Several Variables, 7.5 credits, out of which 3.5 credits must be completed at the beginning of the course, or equivalent.
In addition, Swedish course 3 or Swedish level 3 and English course 6 or English level 2 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course 3 or Swedish level 3.
Examination
INL1, Assignment, 2.5 credits, written assignment concerning learning outcomes 1-7, grades Fail (U) or Pass (G).
HEM1, Take-home examination, 5 credits, examination concerning learning outcomes 1-7, grades Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5.
A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.
Grade
Grading scale: 5, 4, 3
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