Operational Research module (MA32003)

Operational Research (OR) is a branch of applied mathematics. It looks for optimal solutions to complex real-life problems. Business, industry, government, military, health and other sectors rely on OR for decision making which can have enormous financial implications.

OR experts are highly valued by employers, graduates with this knowledge and understanding will help inform big decisions across numerous sectors.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• be introduced to Linear Programming (LP), including the structure of LP problems and the basic Graphical Approach
• explore the famous core algorithm: the Simplex Method
• consider how problems change by considering Sensitivity Analysis
• lean about Transportation Problems and both the Transportation and Assignment Algorithms
• be introduced to Network Models.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• use your broad understanding of Operational Research and its applications
• use skills and knowledge that will be useful across many sectors including medicine, data science and finance
• interpret problems from real world settings, choosing the appropriate techniques to tackle these problems and be proficient in the use of these techniques
• analyse techniques and the results that they give you, interpret the analysis and results for a general audience.

Assignments/assessment

• coursework (20%)
• final exam (80%)

Teaching methods

You will learn by taking a hands-on approach. This will involve taking part in lectures and workshops, each week will have a combination of these classes. The lines between one type of named class and another may be blurred. Lectures will include examples and exercises.

Workshops can provide opportunities to look together at new material. Learning material is provided through videos, review notes, examples, and tutorial questions.