Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook
This is an archived handbook for a previous year. The current undergraduate and postgraduate handbooks can be viewed using the links above.

Undergraduate Handbook 2017-2018 (archived)

Module MATH3211: PROBABILITY III

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH3211: PROBABILITY III

TypeLevelCreditsAvailabilityModule CapLocation
Open 3 20 Available in 2017/2018 Durham

Pre-requisites

  • Complex Analysis II (MATH2011) AND Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031) AND Probability II (MATH2647).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combinations

  • Probability IV (MATH4131).

Aims

  • To build a logical structure on probabilistic intuition, and to cover such peaks of the subject as the Strong Law of Large Numbers and the Central Limit Theorem, as well as more modern topics.

Content

  • Introductory examples.
  • Coin tossing and trajectories of random walks.
  • Discrete renewal theory.
  • Limit theorems and convergence.
  • Order statistics.
  • Non-classical limits and their applications.
  • Stochastic order.
  • Additional topics in advanced probability.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve novel and/or complex problems in Probability.
  • have a systematic and coherent understanding of theoretical mathematics in the field of Probability.
  • have acquired coherent body of knowledge of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Probability as a measure.
  • Random walks.
  • Convergence theorems.
  • Discrete renewal theory.
  • Advanced applications of probability.
Subject-specific Skills
  • In addition students will have specialised mathematical skills in the following areas which can be used with minimal guidance: Modelling, Computation.
Key Skills

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
  • Assignments for self-study develop problem-solving skills and enable students to test and develop their knowledge and understanding.
  • Formatively assessed assignments provide practice in the application of logic and high level of rigour as well as feedback for the students and the lecturer on students' progress.
  • The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotal HoursAttendance Monitored
Lectures 40 2 per week for 19 weeks and 2 in term 3 1 Hour 40
Problems Classes 8 Four in each of terms 1 and 2 1 Hour 8
Preparation and Reading 152
Total 200

Summative Assessment

ComponentComponent WeightingElementLength/DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Examination 100% three hour written examination 100%

Formative Assessment

Four written assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.