About the Course
The study of probability and game theory allows students to apply math to real-world situations. In this course, you'll learn to use some of the major tools of game theory, a branch of mathematics focused on the application of mathematical reasoning to competitive behavior. You'll explore concepts like dominance, mixed strategies, utility theory, Nash equilibria, and n-person games, and learn how to use tools from probability and linear algebra to analyze and develop successful game strategies. The games you'll play in this course are abstract representations of real-life situations; for example, Nash equilibria have been used to solve questions of political competition and analyze penalty kicks in soccer, and the Prisoner's Dilemma has been used to examine the social networks of different populations. Class exercises involve individual and group work and may also include fun class tournaments.
Typical Class Size: 16-18
Learning Objectives
- Review and apply the fundamentals of probability to solve mathematical problems and develop an understanding of the theoretical foundations for fundamental models in game theory
- Apply fundamentals of probability, linear algebra, and game theory to model certain types of human behavior in competitive decision-making situations
- Determine and use appropriate solution techniques for models of competitive decision-making problems by playing games, and justify solutions
- Examine and apply concepts including mixed strategies, zero-sum games, Nash equilibria, subgame perfect equilibria, Bayesian games, signaling games, and cooperative games
- Utilize real-life and computer simulations to test theories and justify conclusions
- Share ideas and solutions to problems, both written and orally through individual exercises and collaborative projects or tournaments
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
In Person
Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI
Residential Site
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: July 5, 2026
Full Waitlist Available
Time Commitment:
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course, and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Game Theory and Strategy, by Philip D. Straffin
Thinking Strategically, by Avinash K. Dixit and Barry J. Nalebuff
Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA
Residential Site
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: July 12, 2026
Full Waitlist Available
Time Commitment:
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course, and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Game Theory and Strategy, by Philip D. Straffin
Thinking Strategically, by Avinash K. Dixit and Barry J. Nalebuff
Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, CA
Residential Site
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: July 5, 2026
Full Waitlist Available
Time Commitment:
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course, and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Game Theory and Strategy, by Philip D. Straffin
Thinking Strategically, by Avinash K. Dixit and Barry J. Nalebuff
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid