The M.S. in OR program prepares students for research and professional practice associated with the formulation, analysis, and computer implementation of mathematical models of operational systems. Major components of the program include mathematical programming, queueing and network theories, computer simulation and modeling, applied and computational probability, and the application of these to realistic problems. Students are expected to become proficient in these areas, as well as in supporting areas of information technology necessary to implement OR analysis approaches. In addition to the Graduate School general admission requirements, desirable academic backgrounds for entrance into the program include an undergraduate degree in engineering, mathematics, a physical science, economics, decision science, or a related field in which the applicant has successfully mastered foundational material in multivariate calculus, matrix algebra, probability, statistics and computer programming. Students whose undergraduate training was in the quantitative social sciences or business administration may be allowed to complete the mathematics prerequisite requirement by taking the course STAT 530.
Any courses taken to remove admission deficiencies extend the minimum requirements for any degree.
Acceptance to the degree program is based on an assessment of the capacity of the applicant to pursue the graduate program successfully, using factors such as the undergraduate record and professional work experience. It is strongly suggested, however, that students seeking financial assistance and students whose undergraduate preparation may be weak for this curriculum should submit one or both of these test scores. The program contains four core courses which provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the basic techniques and applications of operations research. Students enrolled in the M.S. in OR program may construct concentration areas by choosing electives from among special groupings. If a particular concentration is chosen, appropriate note is made on the student's transcript, and a separate certificate suitable for framing is awarded upon graduation.