course-details-portlet

TMA4216

Introduction to the analysis and numerical solution of partial differential equations

New from the academic year 2026/2027

Assessments and mandatory activities may be changed until September 20th.

Credits 7.5
Level Third-year courses, level III
Course start Spring 2027
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Aggregate score

About

About the course

Course content

The course provides a thorough introduction to the analytical theory and numerical techniques for partial differential equations (PDEs).

Topics to be discussed: First-order equations, Cauchy problems, characteristics. Hyperbolic, elliptic, and parabolic linear second-order equations. Maximum principles. Finite difference methods. Error and stability analysis.

Learning outcome

The student masters the basic principles and methods for the analysis of partial differential equations. The student is able to set up, implement, and analyze finite difference methods for a selection of partial differential equations. The student is able to apply the techniques to study concrete examples, understand proofs, and apply central proof techniques to related problems.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, exercises and project. The final grade is composed of a written exam (80%) and a portfolio of project work (20%).

Further on evaluation

(the information may be changed until June 15th)

In order to pass the course, a passing grade (A-E) both in the portfolio and in the written exam is required.

The portfolio consists of a project work. A more detailed description of the form of the presentation of the project will be published on the webpage of the course at the start of the semester.

In case of a retake of the course, all the course parts have to be taken again. The re-sit examination for the written exam may be given as an oral examination. The re-sit exam is in August. There will be no re-sit examination for the portfolio.

Course materials

Will be announced at the start of the course.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
TMA4305 2.5 sp Autumn 2026
TMA4212 6 sp Autumn 2026
This course has academic overlap with the courses in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Other pages about the course

Subject areas

  • Mathematics
  • Technological subjects

Contact information

Course coordinator

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Mathematical Sciences

Timetable

Timetable

Calendar view
List view
Show detailed timetable in TP Download .ics file iCal

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Aggregate score
Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary examination - Spring 2027

School exam
Weighting 80/100 Examination aids Code C Duration 4 hours Exam system Inspera Assessment Place and room Not specified yet.
Portfolio
Weighting 20/100 Exam system Inspera Assessment

Re-sit examination - Summer 2027

School exam
Weighting 80/100 Examination aids Code C Duration 4 hours Exam system Inspera Assessment Place and room Not specified yet.

All about examinations at NTNU