Master of Operations Research, Combinatorics and Optimization (ORCO)

ORCO is a highly competitive, second year European Standard (LMD) graduate program, taught in English.

The Master Program in Operations Research, Combinatorics and Optimization is one of the possible specializations for the second year of the Master of Science in Computer Science (semesters 3 and 4). The courses are taught in English.
Modeling and optimizing complex systems play a major role in addressing current social and economic challenges such as integration of sustainable issues in organizations and industrial systems, efficiency and viability of territorial organizations, competitiveness and innovation of companies, etc. As a result, Operations Research, Combinatorics and Optimization are very active areas of research both in R&D labs and in the academic world. In Grenoble, in particular, several teams of researchers from UGA, Grenoble INP, CNRS and INRIA are recognized worldwide for their work in these fields. The methods and tools of the field range from Applied Mathematics to Computer Science and skills in these areas are required to develop advanced solutions. This master program offers a high level training on methods and tools in Operations Research, Combinatorics and Optimization for data driven decision making. It aims at preparing students to actively contribute to the development of the field, both in academia and in industry.

Scientific Objectives

• Study of advanced and efficient methods and tools of Operations Research, Combinatorics and Optimization (Mathematical Programming, Graph Theory, Complexity Theory, Stochastic Programming, Heuristics, Approximation Algorithms, Robust Optimization, etc.)
• Emphasis on the use of these methods to implement efficient solution techniques for complex industrial applications (in supply chain management, scheduling, transport, etc.)
• Preparation for research positions (in industry and academia)

To be admitted to the program, candidates shall have previously completed the first year of a master program (M1) in Computer science, Applied Mathematics or Industrial Engineering, or shall hold an equivalent degree. Basic skills in the following domains would largely be appreciated: probability theory, graph theory, linear programming, branch and bound. Candidates can contact the persons in charge of the master program to have references of books and/or articles on these domains to prepare at best.

 

Important notes

• Students from related backgrounds (physics, computer science, engineering…) may also apply provided they possess outstanding mathematical qualifications and are highly motivated by applications.
• Eligibility: only individuals who have an excellent academic record will be considered. Applications from students from traditionally underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged.
• Academic standing: Fellows must maintain full-time status in the Master’s program, and must be engaged in full-time coursework or research during the academic year (september 1st–July 31st).

Language requirements

• Students are required to provide evidence of competence in English, mainly from tests validated with a B2 level. The accepted tests and scores are listed on our admission webpage.