MATH5306M Introduction to Programming
5 Credits Class Size: 50
Module manager: Dr Christopher Tedd
Email: C.F.Tedd@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running
2025/26
Pre-requisite qualifications
Partial replacement for MATH5360M: Optimisation Methods for Finance
This module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
This module introduces students to computational techniques and algorithms. Students will learn basic programming skills and apply computational techniques to the solution of mathematical and financial problems.
Objectives
To provide students with the programming skills required to implement numerical methods for financial derivative pricing and hedging.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
1. Write simple programmes for solution of mathematical and finance-related tasks
2. Use functions to structure the code
3. Write algorithms for solution of mathematical and finance-related task
Skills outcomes
Computer programming, algorithms, numerics, applications in derivative pricing.
Syllabus
The module provides an introduction to a programming language.
1. Fundamentals of syntax and structure of a programme
2. Control flow statements
3. Advanced data types (arrays, matrices)
4. Simple user interaction (input/output)
5. Loops
6. Functions
Teaching Methods
| Delivery type |
Number |
Length hours |
Student hours |
| Lecture |
5 |
1 |
5 |
| Practical |
10 |
1 |
10 |
| Private study hours |
35 |
| Total Contact hours |
15 |
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) |
50 |
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Feedback on practical work.
Methods of Assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type |
Notes |
% of formal assessment |
| Practical |
3 pieces of work |
100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) |
100 |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading List
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 12/05/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team