MA 521 Introduction to Optimization

Office: KT 200A, tel. (260) 481-6382

Office hours: TR 4:00-4:30 PM;

Book: An Introduction to Optimization by E. K. P. Chong and S, H. Zak – 4th Ed.

Course description: MA 521 is an introductory course in Optimization. I intend to review (Chapters 1-5) and cover material from Chapters 6-17 and 20-22 (if time allows). The topics are unconstrained optimization and numerical methods with applications to neural networks, linear programming and simplex method, and nonlinear programming. Different numerical methods and applications will be discussed. As a tool we shall use the Computer Algebra System Maple.

Grading: Homework (60%) will be assigned and graded weekly. There will be a Midterm and a Final exam, both 20%.

The grading scale is given below:

A 90 -100%;
B 80-89%;
C 70-79%;
D 60-69%

Enclosed is a tentative teaching schedule.

Disabilities Statement: If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. Contact the Director of Services for Students with Disabilities (Walb 113B, telephone number 481-6658), as soon as possible to work out the details. Once the Director has provided you with a letter attesting to your needs for modification, bring the letter to me. For more information, please visit the web site for SSD at http://www.pfw.edu/ssd/ .