MA423 Half Unit
Fundamentals of Operations Research
This information is for the 2018/19 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Katerina Papadaki COL 2.05
Availability
This course is compulsory on the MSc in Operations Research & Analytics. This course is available on the CEMS Exchange, Global MSc in Management, Global MSc in Management (CEMS MiM), Global MSc in Management (MBA Exchange), MBA Exchange and MSc in Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation. This course is available with permission as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.
Pre-requisites
Students must know basics of linear algebra (matrix multiplication, geometric interpretation of vectors), probability theory (expected value, conditional probability, independence of random events) and calculus (derivatives, limits).
This corresponds to knowledge of Mathematics and Statistics to the level of MA107 (Quantitative Methods Mathematics) and ST102 (Elementary Statistical Theory).
Course content
An introduction to a range of Operations Research techniques, covering: foundations of linear programming, including the simplex method and duality; integer programming; markov chains; queueing theory; dynamic programming; inventory models; game theory.
Teaching
20 hours of lectures and 15 hours of seminars in the MT. 2 hours of lectures in the ST.
Formative coursework
Students will be expected to produce 2 problem sets in the MT.
Indicative reading
The course will be taught from lecture notes and slides.
Students may also wish to consult:
F S Hillier & G J Lieberman, Introduction to Operations Research, 9th edition (2009)
Wayne Winston, Operational Research; Applications and Algorithms, Fourth/International Student Edition.
Assessment
Exam (100%, duration: 3 hours) in the summer exam period.
Key facts
Department: Mathematics
Total students 2017/18: 57
Average class size 2017/18: 20
Controlled access 2017/18: No
Lecture capture used 2017/18: Yes (MT)
Value: Half Unit
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Application of numeracy skills
- Specialist skills