Introduction to Operations Research with Excel

Course code MATH 2230

Credit 3.0

Length 60.0 hours

Course outline View

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and techniques of Operations Research (OR), with a strong focus on practical applications using Microsoft Excel. Emphasizing linear programming, optimization, and decision modeling, students will learn to formulate real-world problems mathematically, solve them using standard techniques, and interpret results. Through hands-on exercises and case studies, students will apply industry-relevant tools such as Excel Solver to conduct sensitivity analysis, simulation, and resource allocation.

Prerequisites

MATH 1221 or equivalent (taken prior to or concurrently).

Missing prerequisites?

Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

What you will learn

  • Overview of Operations Research in Decision Making

    Mathematical Optimization and Decision-Modeling

    Linear Programming and Graphical method

    Excel for Optimization and Solver Reports

    The Simplex Method

    Sensitivity Analysis and Real-World Applications

    Network Models and Applications

    Modelling problems using discrete-event simulations

    Queuing Theory and Practical Applications

    Case Studies in Operations Research

    Ethical Considerations and Trends in Operations Research

How to register

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

Contact us

If you have any question, please email at advising@vcc.ca.

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.