This module assumes familiarity with the basics of functional programming and expands both breadth and depth of knowledge. There is a strong focus on practicality and applicability, and on using theory to develop robust, error-free programs with a minimum of time and effort. The module goes into depth around programming patterns and techniques, including common monads, embedded domain-specific languages, equational reasoning, and interesting research tracks. Students are also introduced to a range of functional languages and their applications.

Topics covered include:

• Continuation-passing style
• Common patterns (e.g. state, reader, writer monads; lenses, prisms)
• Domain-specific languages
• Basic type theory
• Equational reasoning
• Untyped functional programming
• Lisp-style macros
• Functional within dysfunctional: Elm and Nix

Prerequisites: Familiarity with a typed functional programming language (e.g. Haskell, F#, Scala, etc.) and the principles underlying functional programming practice (immutability, first-class functions).

Last Modified: Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:40:00 SAST