Discrete Optimization
Tired of solving Sudokus by hand? This class teaches you how to solve complex search problems with discrete optimization concepts and algorithms, including constraint programming, local search, and mixed-integer programming.Optimization technology is ubiquitous in our society. It schedules planes and their crews, coordinates the production of steel, and organizes the transportation of iron ore from the mines to the ports. Optimization clears the day-ahead and real-time markets to deliver electricity to millions of people. It organizes kidney exchanges and cancer treatments and helps scientists understand the fundamental fabric of life, control complex chemical reactions, and design drugs that may benefit billions of individuals.
This class is an introduction to discrete optimization and exposes students to some of the most fundamental concepts and algorithms in the field. It covers constraint programming, local search, and mixed-integer programming from their foundations to their applications for complex practical problems in areas such as scheduling, vehicle routing, supply-chain optimization, and resource allocation.
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Syllabus
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Week 1
Welcome
Week 2
Knapsack
Week 3
Constraint Programming
Week 4
Local Search
Week 5
Linear Programming
Week 6
Mixed Integer Programming
Week 7
Advanced Topics: Part I
Week 8
Advanced Topics: Part II
FAQ
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
• What are the pre-requisites for the class?
Good programming skills, knowledge of algorithms and linear algebra.
• What programming language will be used in this class?
A minimal knowledge of python is necessary to integrate with the course infrastructure. Outside of that, students are free to use any language of their choice.
• How difficult is this class?
A motivated student spending the time on the programming assignment will succeed in this class.
• Where can I get one of those T-Shirts?
At the discrete optimization store: http://www.zazzle.com.au/discreteoptimization
Reviews
Awesome course, learned a lot for solving NP hard problem. It could be hard for people without basic algorithm and data structure background.
Well-defined course and interesting lecturer. He's highly engaging although the material of the course is pretty technical. Thanks a lot for making this course!!!!
it needs creativity:) assignments are specially hard! doing this course will increase your problem solving skill!
Excellent course! The course video are very clear and build on each other as the course progress. It is well structured. The assignments have the right amount of difficulty.
