Numerical Analysis: Computational Programming with Python
Start
Autumn 2026
Level
Bachelor's
Language
English
Place of study
Multiple cities
Course code
NUMA01
In this course, you develop your programming skills from your current level — whether you are completely new to coding or already have some experience — by learning how Python can be used systematically in mathematical and scientific work. You are introduced to techniques for implementing algorithms, structuring code, and using computational tools to investigate and solve problems from mathematics and physics. The course also connects directly to content from Analysis in One Variable and Algebra and Vector Geometry, giving you opportunities to translate theoretical concepts into practical computations, visualisations and small-scale simulations.
Topics include
- Data structures, conditional statements, functions and classes
- The basic functions and data types of the Python programming language: arithmetic operations, arrays of vectors, matrices, graphics functions, lists, tuples, dictionaries, file management
- Modules such as NumPy, SciPy and Matplotlib
- The representation of floating point numbers and their implications for arithmetic
- Syntax: [for], [if-else], [while], list comprehensions, generators
- Classes and inheritance applied to mathematical objects.
The course is compulsory within the Bachelor’s programmes in Mathematics. It may also be taken as a optional course within other Bachelor’s programmes or as a standalone course.
Teaching combines lectures with computerbased exercises that introduce new programming concepts in small, manageable steps. You apply these techniques directly by writing and testing your own code, gradually building up the skills needed for more advanced computational tasks. The supervised computer labs form a mandatory part of the course and provide structured support as you learn to use Python effectively.
The course also includes a programming project carried out in small groups. The project gives you experience in developing a larger program from start to finish together with other students, with both mathematical reasoning and good programming practice at the centre. The results of the project are presented at a seminar, which is part of the assessment. Throughout the course, you receive continuous feedback to deepen your understanding and support your progress.
Assessment is based on your work during the course, including report presentations of the exercises, your participation in the final project and your presentation at the project seminar. All compulsory components must be completed in order to pass.
Programming is a core skill in mathematics, science, and many datadriven industries. After completing the course, you will be able to write Python programs for mathematical and scientific applications, understand how algorithms behave in practice, and communicate computational results clearly through text, speech and graphics.
The course prepares you for further studies in numerical analysis, data science, and computational physics, and provides a strong foundation for careers where coding, analytical thinking and problemsolving are essential.
Prerequisites
General requirements and studies equivalent to Swedish Upper Secondary School course Mathematics 4 (or older course Mathematics D)/Mathematics further level 2
Selection criteria
Seats are allocated according to the following: The general average (GPA) of your higher secondary school leaving certificate: 34 %, The Swedish national university aptitude test: 34 %, number of previous ECTS at application deadline (up to 165): 32 %. If students have equal credentials, seats are allocated based on their results on The Swedish National University Aptitude Test. If this too is equal, seats are allocated based on a draw.
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.