Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - MATH 208W D100

Introduction to Operations Research (3)

Class Number: 5266

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 23, 2026
    Thu, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MATH 150 or 151 or 154 or 157, with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to methods of operations research: linear and nonlinear programming, simulation, and heuristic methods. Applications to transportation, assignment, scheduling, and game theory. Exposure to mathematical models of industry and technology. Emphasis on computation for analysis and simulation. Students with credit for MATH 208 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Topics covered

Modelling problems with many variables as linear programs.
Using spreadsheet applications to solve these models.  Network flow models.
Sensitivity analysis.  Integer and non-linear models.
Applications may include resource allocation, shipping and financial planning.

Modelling problems using discrete-event simulations.

Students will learn mathematical typesetting using LaTeX, and spreadsheets using Excel.
A feature of the course will be a team project, in which students analyze a substantial mathematical problem and present their results in writing.

Grading

  • Individual Homework Assignments 30%
  • Team Homework Assignments 15%
  • Midterm 15%
  • Term Project 15%
  • Final Exam 25%

NOTES:

THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION.
Students should be aware that they have certain rights to confidentiality concerning the return of course papers and the posting of marks. Please pay careful attention to the options discussed in class at the beginning of the semester.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Optimization Modeling with Spreadsheets, 3rd Edition
Kenneth R. Baker
ISBN: 978-1-118-93773-0

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.