Mathematics: Linear Functional Analysis
Functional analysis is the language of modern analysis and offers deep insights as well as strong intuition for problems in this vast area of mathematics. You learn how to tackle analysis problems using methods based on abstract principles rather than ad hoc approaches.
Start
Autumn 2026
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
Course code
MATP35
This course introduces key concepts in functional analysis, focusing on Banach and Hilbert spaces and the behaviour of continuous linear maps. You will learn how these abstract structures underpin much of modern analysis and its applications, as well as some fundamental theorems related to their structure.
Topics include
- Banach spaces: Hahn–Banach Theorem, duality, and weak-star compactness
- Hilbert spaces: L² spaces, orthogonality, projection theorem, and Riesz representation
- Operator theory: The principles of functional analysis: Uniform boundedness, open and inverse mapping, and closed graph theorems
- Spectral theory: Bounded and compact operators, spectral properties, and the spectral theorem for compact self-adjoint operators.
The course is alternative-compulsory within the Master’s Programme in Mathematics at Lund University and is also offered as a standalone course. It is given in parallel with MATP45 Specialisation Course in Linear Functional Analysis, offering the possibility to dive deeper into the subject. We strongly recommend students to take both courses during the same semester for a comprehensive understanding of functional analysis.
You will take part in lectures and encouraged to actively discuss both examples and methods of proof. The assessment includes a written exam (5 credits) and an oral exam (2.5 credits) at the end of the course. The oral exam is only given for students who pass the written exam. Students who do not pass the first written exam will be offered a resit shortly after. Adjustments to the examination format may be made for students with permanent disabilities, in consultation with Disability Support Services.
Functional analysis is a cornerstone of advanced mathematics and has wide applications in areas like differential equations, quantum mechanics, and signal processing. After completing the course, you’ll be well-prepared for further studies in mathematical analysis or related fields, as well as for roles that require strong analytical and theoretical skills—such as research, data science, or mathematical modelling.
Entry requirements
At least 90 credits in pure mathematics including knowledge corresponding to a course in Integration Theory, 7.5 credits (Lebesgue integral). English 6/English course B.
Selection criteria
Seats are allocated according to: ECTS (HPAV): 100 %.
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens
Citizens of countries outside:
- The European Union (EU)
- The European Economic Area (EEA) and
- Switzerland
are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.
Tuition fees, payments and exemptions
Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 23,125
First payment: SEK 23,125
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland
There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
A shared second home for mathematics
Matematikcentrum gathers students and researchers in mathematics, mathematical statistics, and numerical analysis and computational science. Along Sölvegatan, close to green spaces and the wider university area, you find a shared environment for everyone who uses mathematics as a common language. Research here has led to innovations and companies in areas such as optimisation, image analysis and software, with applications ranging from logistics to video analysis and mobile technology.
