Operations Research
Overview
Operations research programs prepare people to apply math and science to operational systems involving human interaction.Operations research programs include topics such as:
- Optimization theory and techniques
- Resource allocation theory
- Mathematical modeling
- Control theory
- Statistics and research methods
Schools
Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in operations research. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree, students can transfer to a college or university for further study.
Several colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in operations research. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four or five years of full-time study.
A few universities offer graduate degrees in operations research. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Applied Mathematics
- Computational Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Engineering and Industrial Management
- Engineering Technology, General
- Engineering, General
- Information Science
- Information Technology
- Management Sciences
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Operations Management
- Physical Sciences, General
- Statistics
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Biology
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Computer Science and Programming
- English Composition
- Physics
Graduate Admissions
Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree (in engineering, physical science, computer science, math, or statistics), good grades, and good test scores.
Additional requirements at some schools include:
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
- Letters of recommendation
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
Your undergraduate program typically should include courses in the following subjects:
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- English Composition
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Linear Differential Equations
- Statistics
Graduate Program Courses
Your master's program typically should include courses in the following subjects:
- Deterministic Operations Research
- Optimization Theory
- Stochastic Operations Research
- Systems Simulation
- Thesis
Things to Know
Most engineering jobs require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and other humanities courses will develop your communication skills.
Schools
No information available.