Loading Image...
- Is Operational Research
the same thing as Operations Research?
- How much mathematics do I need to know?
- Does the course involve gaining hands-on experience with statistical/OR computer software?
- Do you provide the software that I require on the course?
- How is the course assessed?
- What kind of employment do
I need to be in?
- What are the minimum/maximum lengths of study?
- Will it say "MSc by distance" on my degree certificate?
Answers
Yes. "Operational Research" is exactly the same as "Operations Research". The subject is known in the United Kingdom by its original name, Operational Research.
Some of the classes will require some mathematical manipulation. Knowledge of the topics below may well be expected. If you have problems with any of these you will be required to do additional pre-course reading.
Ability to use a scientific calculator
Capable of using and understanding functions such as exp, log, x^y on a calculator.
Algebraic notation and manipulation; subscripts; simple results.
Should feel comfortable manipulating equations and working with subscript notation. For example, student should be able to solve a quadratic equation, such as 
.
Logs and exponentials
Have a general understanding of the use of logs and exponentials.
The ability to carry out logarithmic transformations.
An understanding of the logarithmic and exponential laws of summation, division etc.
Graphs of simple functions.
Ability to draw and interpret graphs of simple linear and non-linear mathematical functions.
Differentiation (including differentiation of a product).
The idea of a differential equation
An understanding of when differentiation is used.
Ability to carry out differentiation on different functions, including functions that include the product of two variables.
A basic understanding of how to solve equations that involve one or more derivatives.
An understanding of what integration is.
Integration of polynomials and ex; integration by parts
Understanding of when the use of integration is appropriate and the ability to carry out the integration of functions that contain variables with nonnegative integer powers.
Finite sums.
Infinite sums of xi and xi /i!
Ability to carry out sums of arithmetic and geometric series.
Ability to sum infinite series of elements that have the form ?xi or ?xi/i!, where, for example, i = 1 to 8
Simple manipulation of vectors and matrices
Ability to carry out simple manipulation, such as addition, subtraction and multiplication of vectors and matric
Yes. You will use SPSS, Simul8 (discrete-event simulation), PowerSim (continuous simulation)and Decision Analysis software.
Yes. However, Microsoft Office 2000 or higher is required. Please see the technical requirements section.
Some modules are assessed by assignment. Others are by examination at local centres. For the PGC half of the modules are examined in local centres.
The final decision as to what is "appropriate employment" remains with the University of Strathclyde. However, if your employment covers all of the following, you are likely to be in the correct type of post:
- solving problems owned by someone else
- ill-defined problems
- working in teams
- the opportunity to use a variety of Operational Research techniques
- your work has an influence on the operation of your organisations
NB: You do not need to be in such employment to be accepted onto the Certificate.
The PGC can be taken in a minimum of 12 months. Although you can start the Certificate in October or April, several of the modules are dependent on each other (eg Stats I has to be completed before Stats II can be completed. Similarly, Stochastics cannot be done until Stats II has been completed). The maximum timescale for the PGC is 24 months (this is laid down in University regulations).
No. The content, assessment and certification is identical to that of the 40-year-old face-to-face degree. No differentiation is made between part-time, full-time and distance modes when degrees are awarded.
management science DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE Graham Hills BUILDING 40 GEORGE STREET G1 1QE
t:0141 548 3613/3141 f:0141 552 6686
contact-mansci@strath.ac.uk
