Operations Research 3 unit (KMA355)

Introduction

This unit equips students with skills in modelling and optimising real world systems using discrete-state-space models and modern optimisation methods. These approaches are fundamental for analysing systems that evolve over time, particularly under uncertainty. Throughout the unit, you will develop strong problem solving and analytical skills through models and algorithms in Dynamic Programming, Markovian Decision Processes, Queueing Theory, and Simulation. You will learn to apply these methods to practical decision making and planning problems, and solve them using advanced numerical and computational tools. This unit is a core unit within the Statistics and Decision Science major (Bachelor of Science).

Summary

Unit name	Operations Research 3
Unit code	KMA355
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Mathematics
Coordinator	Associate Professor Malgorzata O'Reilly
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By
Level	Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Construct models using Dynamic Programming, Queueing Theory, and Simulation to represent real-world systems.
• Apply analytical and problem-solving techniques from Dynamic Programming, Queueing Theory, and Simulation to perform numerical analysis of real-world problems.
• Explain modelling and optimisation methods using mathematical language and notation.
• State and use formal definitions and properties of fundamental mathematical structures relevant to modelling and optimisation.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

Any intermediate (200 coded) KMA unit

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	Face to face: 1-hr/week pre-recorded video lectures, 1-hr/week online lecture, 1-hr/week tutorial, 1-hr/week lab, 1-hr/week optional online Q&A Online: 1-hr/week pre-recorded video lectures, 1-hr/week online lecture, 1-hr/week online tutorial/lab, 1-hr/week optional online Q&A
Assessment	Demonstration (10%)|Examination (40%)|Assignment (multiple) (50%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.
Recommended	• S. M. Ross, Introduction to Probability Models. • Taha, H.A., Operations Research: An Introduction. • Winston, W. L., Operations Research: Applications and Algorithms. • W. Feller, An Introduction to Probability Theory and Its Applications, vol. I.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.