Operations Research

Operations research is a scientific approach that applies quantitative methods to decision-making with a focus on how best to design and operate systems, usually under conditions requiring the allocation of scarce resources. However, whether one means the term to be a professional designation, a label for a body of methods, or an approach to problem-solving, operations research is today inextricably linked to the direction and management of large systems of people, machines, materials, and money in government, industry, business, and defense.

Since its inception during WWII, the interdisciplinary field of operations research has set itself apart as an applied mathematical science and engineering discipline with a diverse range of applications. Because of the increased demand for operations research analyses within the Army, the operations research specialty continues to enjoy steady growth in membership, and is associated with superb educational and promotion opportunities throughout an officer's military career. West Point remains the single largest source of operations research officers for the Army.

Graduates of the operations research program at USMA are well prepared to tackle some of the Army's most challenging problems and to pursue graduate study in support of the operations research career field.

The operations research curriculum offers a combination of mathematical optimization, statistics, systems engineering, engineering management, computer science, and economics. This broad foundation of problem-solving skills and knowledge afford an adept perspective when confronting the challenging and complex problems that face military, government, and industry leaders.

The major offers an honors option.

Military Applications of Operations Research

The military specifically uses Operations Research at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. The applications cover a full spectrum of military activities including national policy analysis, resource allocation, force composition and modernization, logistics, human resources, battle planning, and maintenance and replenishment.

Program of Study

Operations Research applies quantitative methods to decision-making. The Operations Research curriculum offers a combination of mathematical optimization, statistics, systems engineering, engineering management, computer science, and economics. This broad foundation of problem-solving skills and knowledge afford an adept perspective when confronting the challenging and complex problems that face military, government, and industry leaders.

Student Outcomes

The student outcomes of the operations research major include:    

• Model complex systems: Develop the ability to formulate and model complex systems and processes by identifying key assumptions, metrics, and constraints; selecting and applying appropriate solution techniques; and interpreting, evaluating, and validating results in context.
• Master core operations research methods: Demonstrate proficiency in operations research by understanding and applying optimization, probabilistic theory, statistics, stochastic processes, and simulation methods.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively: Communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, work effectively in team settings, and convey ideas precisely in both written and oral formats.
• Utilize technology proficiently: Use modern software and tools to model, visualize, and solve complex problems, and analyze data effectively.
• Develop professional habits, ethical awareness, and interdisciplinary insight: Develop critical thinking, ethical awareness, and interdisciplinary understanding in OR, with a commitment to lifelong learning

Interested Cadets

To learn more about this area of study, visit the Department of Mathematical Sciences.