MAT3360 – Introduction to Partial Differential Equations

Schedule, syllabus and examination date

Course content

The course gives an introduction to analytical techniques for partial differential equations, in particular to separation of variables. In addition the course treats qualititative properties of solutions, such as maximum principles and energy estimates. The course also gives a basic introduction to difference methods and their stability analysis.

Learning outcome

After completing the course you will have

  • good knowledge of the properties of important linear partial differential equations; maximum principles, energy estimates etc. You will know the theory of well-posedness for initial and boundary value problems
  • kasic knowledge of representation of solutions of special equations in terms of Fourier series
  • knowledge of difference methods for partial differential equations and the analysis of these. You will know techniques which can be used for convergence analysis and error estimates
  • the skills to program various difference methods efficiently
  • basic knowledge about convergence of Fourier series
  • basic knowledge of mathematical modeling using partial differential equations.

Admission to the course

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

Special admission requirements

In addition to fulfilling the Higher Education Entrance Qualification, applicants have to meet the following special admission requirements:

  • Mathematics R1 (or Mathematics S1 and S2) + R2

And in addition one of these:

  • Physics (1+2)
  • Chemistry (1+2)
  • Biology (1+2)
  • Information technology (1+2)
  • Geosciences (1+2)
  • Technology and theories of research (1+2)
  • Social economy (1+2)

The special admission requirements may also be covered by equivalent studies from Norwegian upper secondary school or by other equivalent studies (in Norwegian).

Overlapping courses

Teaching

4 hours of lectures/exercises per week throughout the semester.

The course may be taught in Norwegian if the lecturer and all students at the first lecture agree to it.

Examination

Final written exam which counts 100 % towards the final grade.

This course has 2 mandatory assignments that must be approved before you can sit the final exam.

Examination support material

No examination support material is allowed.

Language of examination

Courses taught in English will only offer the exam paper in English. You may submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

Resit an examination

This course offers both postponed and resit of examination. Read more:

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 5:15:37 AM

Facts about this course

Level
Bachelor
Credits
10
Teaching
Spring
Examination
Spring
Teaching language
English

Contact

Department of Mathematics