Online Course

E_M 540 Operations Research and Analytics for Managers

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Term

Spring 2026

Duration

16 weeks, Live Online

Price

Non-Refundable Application Fee: US$90
View Tuition and Fees for Tuition Rates

Admission

Apply online via EngineeringCAS. Priority application deadlines by term: November 15 (Spring); July 15 (Fall); March 15 (Summer)

Course Description

Operations Research (OR) extends math modeling to managerial decisions and operational problems which have many solutions. OR uses these models to better understand the options available to the manager using data and analytics. OR and analytical techniques include a collection of optimization models to help rationalize and guide the manager towards the ‘best solution’ among the many possible satisfying solutions. This course introduces the student to a number of models, which have been proven effective in solving certain classes of managerial problems in engineering management systems and operations. The student will see the rationale behind the technique and understand how to apply the tools. Techniques covered in the course include linear and nonlinear programming, network optimization, goal programming, decision trees, and simulation. 

Semester Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Location: Global Campus

Course meets at times posted via web conferencing software.

Selective For:
Certificate: Industrial Leadership
Certificate: Supply Chain Management

Elective for:
Master’s Degree

Required for:
Certificate: Systems Engineering Management

Gain Expertise in

  • Linear Programming
  • Sensitivity Analysis
  • Integer, Mixed Integer Programming
  • Network Models
  • Goal Programming
  • Nonlinear Programming
  • Probability Concepts
  • Descriptive vs Prescriptive Analytics
  • Simulation Modeling
  • Decision Analysis and Decision Trees
  • Integrating Models
  • Using Simulation with Decision Trees

Course Objectives

  • Students will be able to recognize problems in real-world situations where operations research models can be applied.
  • Students will understand models and techniques, formulation and results of an analytical or mathematical nature that aid decision-making.
  • Students will be able to apply models and techniques in their industry or area of work.
  • Students will gain a perspective that integrates management, computer science and mathematics to solve the new challenges of modern complex systems.

Learning Outcomes

  • L1. Distinguish types of models from optimization, decision analysis, simulation, and others,and recognize their limitations and applicability
  • L2. Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering and technology management problems by applying mathematical and computational modeling of real-world problems, including fundamental applications of those techniques in industry.
  • L3. Using case studies, analyze problems and communicate solutions in a group learning context.
  • L4. Use a statistical software package for computations with data

Lectures are live and interactive

Delivered 1x/week—early evening

Each live session is recorded

Instructor

About:

With WSU since 2013 as Associate Professor and Director of the Engineering and Technology Management Program, Dr. Magpili has extensive international experience as educator and consultant. She served as program officer for International Relief and Development and managed relief and development work across the globe. Recently, she served as Fulbright specialist for Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Travaux Publics (ENTSP) in Cameroon where she developed and taught supply chain management, project management, and digital e-governance.

Dr. Magpili currently serves as panel reviewer to NSF programs, conference track chair for the American Society of Engineering Management (ASEM), and reviewer to various journals such as Engineering Management Review, Public Library of Science PLOS One, and American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) publications. She is a co-author of the book, “Operational Risk Management”, used as reference across many universities; and a chapter co-author to the new book, “Cybersecurity for Entrepreneurs.” She has recently been awarded a Spencer Education Grant for 2023 to develop and update risk modules in Loss Prevention and Control. Previously Dr. Magpili served as research associate at the University of Virginia, where her research focused on service systems planning and developed methods and tools to aid decision-makers plan for infrastructure and capital investments. She is currently collaborating with startups in the application of AI and analytics.

Applicants to the ETM program must have the following:

Minimum requirements:

  • a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • a transcript*
  • at least one letter of recommendation**
  • a personal statement
  • a résumé showing work experience

Learn more about the Master of Engineering and Technology Management.

Minimum requirements:

  • a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • a transcript*
  • a personal statement
  • a résumé

Because the certificates consist of regular graduate courses, admission to the graduate school is still necessary.

Learn more about ETM certificate programs.

* The ETM program is designed for working professionals, and we highly value your work experience and determination. We may be able to offer provisional admission to those who do not meet the Graduate School’s minimum 3.0 GPA requirement. Please contact us at etm@wsu.edu for more information.

** The program accepts both academic and professional letters.

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