SYSEN 5240 - Search and Optimization with Metaheuristics

Summer. 3 credits.

Prerequisites: Senior/graduate standing. Student should have working knowledge of a high-level programming language (e.g., Matlab, Python, C, Java). Student should have completed a course in optimization or systems analysis that emphasizes formulation and modeling (e.g., ORIE 3310, SYSEN 5100, SYSEN 5110) and a course in introductory probability and statistics (e.g. ENGRD 2700).

K. Y. Daisy Fan.

This course analyzes modern heuristic methods for search and optimization problems. Single-solution based, population based, as well as hybrid techniques are examined. A survey of classical exact optimization methods is given to put metaheuristics in context, and the problem characteristics that favor a heuristic approach are discussed. This course uses implementation case studies to emphasize the solution process representation, computation, parameter estimation, and performance analysis. Students will complete a demonstration project by implementing a metaheuristic solution on a problem of their choice.