Course author
Andreea Safi
Andreea is the author of Matrix Algebra 105 and other courses in MCC's quantitative methods series.
Quick Answer
Matrix Algebra 105 is an on-demand course on special matrices and determinants. It introduces six types of special matrix, from the identity matrix to orthogonal matrices, then shows how to calculate determinants, how to find a matrix inverse and how determinants relate to solving linear equations. You get the video lecture, slides, a quiz and a transcript as soon as you buy.
Key takeaways
- Special matrices, such as identity, diagonal and symmetric matrices, have structures that make calculations simpler.
- A determinant is a single number that tells you whether a square matrix can be inverted.
- Determinants link directly to whether a system of linear equations has a unique solution.
- It is recorded, with no live session, and access starts immediately after purchase.
What will you be able to do after the course?
You will be able to recognise the common types of matrix and use determinants and inverses with confidence. The course is built around three outcomes.
- Recognise special matrices. Identify each type of special matrix and explain its properties.
- Calculate determinants and inverses. Work out a determinant and find the inverse of a matrix.
- Connect them to linear equations. Explain how the determinant tells you whether a system of equations can be solved.
What does the course cover?
The lecture follows the published agenda, and a quiz at the end tests your understanding.
- Introduction and guest speaker
- Special matrices: types of matrices: identity, zero, diagonal, symmetric, skew-symmetric and orthogonal matrices
- Determinants: calculating determinants and what they tell you about a matrix
What do the key terms mean?
These are terms you will meet in the course, in plain English.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Identity matrix | A square matrix with ones on the main diagonal and zeros everywhere else. Multiplying by it leaves a matrix unchanged. |
| Zero matrix | A matrix in which every entry is zero. |
| Diagonal matrix | A square matrix whose entries off the main diagonal are all zero. |
| Symmetric matrix | A square matrix equal to its transpose, so the entry in row i, column j matches the entry in row j, column i. |
| Skew-symmetric matrix | A square matrix equal to minus its transpose. Its diagonal entries are always zero. |
| Orthogonal matrix | A square matrix whose transpose is also its inverse. |
| Transpose | The matrix you get by swapping rows and columns. |
| Determinant | A single number calculated from a square matrix. If it is zero, the matrix has no inverse. |
| Inverse matrix | The matrix that, multiplied by the original, gives the identity matrix. |
Who is the course for?
It suits anyone who uses quantitative methods and wants a firmer grasp of the mathematics underneath.
- Students in mathematics
- Professionals deepening their quantitative skills
- Decision makers who use mathematical tools
- Policy analysts
- Researchers
Which courses should you take first?
Matrix Algebra 105 is the second course in MCC's on-demand matrix algebra series. Matrix Algebra 110 then puts determinants and inverses to work on linear systems, and Econometrics 101 applies matrix methods to regression.
- 101Matrix terminology and representation
- 110Solving linear systems
- Econ101 The linear regression model
- This course
Browse every title on the MCC Economics courses page.
Why learn this from MCC Economics?
MCC Economics is an independent consultancy, founded in London in 2017, that provides economic and financial analysis to governments, regulators and businesses. Its research and data analysis and financial modelling work relies on the quantitative methods taught in this series. Meet the team on the people page.
I was delighted that MCC's work was completed on time, and within budget, helping us deliver important changes and improvements, to the benefit of our stakeholders.
Questions buyers ask before registering
Who teaches Matrix Algebra 105?
See the instructor profiles near the top of this page for the current teaching team.
Is there a live session?
No. Matrix Algebra 105 is available on demand only and no meeting is held. You work through the recorded material at your own pace.
What do I get when I buy?
The video lecture, the slides, a quiz and a full transcript.
When can I start?
Straight away. Access to all course materials is given as soon as the order is placed.
What are special matrices?
Matrices with a particular structure that makes them easier to work with or gives them useful properties. Examples are the identity, zero, diagonal, symmetric, skew-symmetric and orthogonal matrices.
What is a determinant used for?
A determinant is a single number calculated from a square matrix. If it is zero, the matrix has no inverse, so a system of linear equations built on it has no unique solution.
How much does it cost?
The MCC Economics courses page lists Matrix Algebra 105 from £32.68. The final price is shown at checkout on Eventbrite.
Can my team take the course together?
Contact MCC Economics through the consultation page to discuss places for a team or training tailored to your organisation.
Page last reviewed October 2026.
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