Certificate of Professional Achievement in Operations Research
Operations Research is an applied science and is concerned with quantitative decision problems,
generally involving the allocation and control of limited resources. Such problems arise, for
example, in the operations of industrial firms, financial institutions, health care organizations,
transportation systems, energy and resources, and government. The operations research analyst
develops and uses mathematical and statistical models to help solve these decision problems. Like
engineers, they are problem formulators and solvers. Their work requires the formation of a
mathematical model of a system and the analysis and prediction of the consequences of alternate modes
of operating the system. The analysis may involve mathematical optimization techniques, probabilistic
and statistical methods, experiments, and computer simulations. Operations Research courses have
been offered at Columbia University since 1952.
Required Courses
Students must choose 4 of the following courses:
SIEO W4150: Introduction to Probability and Statistics
IEOR E4004: Introduction to Operations Research - Deterministic Models
(Can be substituted with IEOR E4007)
IEOR E4106: Introduction to Operations Research - Stochastic Models
(Can be substituted with SIEO W4606)
IEOR E4404: Simulation
IEOR E4003: Industrial Economics
Certificate Program Requirements
· 4 Graduate-level classes all earned through CVN, as a non-degree student. Students
currently in any degree program at Columbia University are not eligible for the Certificate Program through CVN.
· Minimum of 12 credit points
· Minimum GPA of 3.0
· Completion of program within two (2) calendar years.
Credits earned to fulfill the requirements of a Certificate Program may be applied toward an MS or PD degree
in the same field of study, subject to the approval of an Academic Advisor. However, students must apply for
admission to the University and meet all admissions requirements. Entry into and completion of a Certificate
Program does not ensure acceptance into an MS or PD program.
In order to apply for acceptance into a Certificate Program, please visit the link below:
Certificate Application and Instructions Page