2013-2014 University Catalog
Operations Research, MS
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Banner Code: VS-MS-OPRS
School: Volgenau School of Engineering
Department: Systems Engineering and Operations Research
This program prepares students for research and professional practice associated with the formulation and analysis of mathematical models for decision making and their computer implementation. Major components include optimization, queuing and network modeling, computer simulation and modeling, applied and computational probability, and application of these components to realistic and relevant operational analysis problems. Students are expected to become proficient in these areas, as well as in supporting areas of information technology necessary to implement operations research methods.
The program includes core courses and electives selected by the student with the aid of a faculty advisor. To obtain the MS degree, students complete an approved plan of study that contains a minimum of 30 graduate credits. Students may take courses through the Commonwealth Graduate Engineering Program. Appropriate courses may be transferred, with advisor approval, into this Mason degree program.
An accelerated master’s option is available to students in selected bachelor’s of science programs. See BS (selected)/Operations Research, Accelerated MS for specific requirements.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the program, students must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, economics, or a related field. They also must have completed courses in calculus (MATH 113, 114, and 213), matrix algebra (MATH 203), differential equations (MATH 214), applied probability and statistics (STAT 346), and a scientific programming language (CS 112).
Other requirements are as follows:
- Provide evidence of satisfactory educational achievement in at least one of the following forms: a GPA of at least 3.00 as an undergraduate or an acceptable GPA in graduate courses. International students must also achieve satisfactory scores on the GRE. Nonnative English speakers must have a satisfactory score on the TOEFL.
- Provide three letters of recommendation submitted by former professors or supervisors.
The department offers SYST 500 as an intensive review of undergraduate engineering mathematics, including matrix algebra, transforms, differential equations, probability, and statistics. On acceptance, students will be required to take a foundation qualification test a week or two before school starts, unless waived by the department chair or graduate coordinator. Students who fail the test will be required to take SYST 500. A sample test is available from the department.
Students with minor deficiencies in preparation may be accepted conditionally pending removal of the deficiencies. Courses taken to remove admission deficiencies (including SYST 500) extend minimum requirements for the degree. Students whose undergraduate training was in the quantitative social sciences or quantitatively oriented business administration may be allowed to complete a portion of the mathematics prerequisite by taking SYST 500. |