Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Operations Research entails completion of rigorous coursework requirements that prepare the student for advanced research and analysis in the field. The doctoral degree is characterized as a research degree with substantial emphasis placed on the completion of the dissertation research. Close interaction between the student and his/her research advisory committee plays a pivotal role in the successful completion of the Ph.D. program. Equally important is the discipline and dedication of the student, as independent study is a critical element for timely completion of the program.

Program Outcomes (POs)

Our Program Outcomes (student knowledge/skills/abilities upon graduation) produce graduates who:

1. The graduates will be able to understand and evaluate critically the literature of the field.
   
   
2. The graduates will be able to apply appropriate principles and procedures to the recognition, evaluation, interpretation, and understanding of issues and problems at the frontiers of knowledge.
   
   
3. The graduates will have acquired the knowledge, skills, ethics, and independence of thought and action expected of a scholar.
   
   
4. The graduates will have extended and effectively communicated knowledge in his or her field.
   

Admissions Criteria

Degree Required: MS in Operations Research, Systems Analysis, Operations Analysis, Mathematics, or other highly quantitative field of study.

Test Required: GRE scores of at least 156 (verbal) and 151 (quantitative) on the Education Testing Service (ETS) new GRE score scale effective August 2011 (Concordance table for test scores 1 Nov 2011 – 30 Jun 2012) or 550 (verbal) and 650 (quantitative) for GRE tests taken/scored under the old scale used by ETS prior to August 2011.

GPA Required: OVERALL - 3.50

• Waivers to the above criteria may be granted on a case by case basis. Therefore, individuals whose academic credentials fall below any of the above criteria are encouraged to apply.
  

Degree Requirements

Residency requirement (three consecutive quarters)
Specialization Courses (24 hours)
Mathematics required (8 hours)
Minor Courses (9 hours)
Successfully pass the Specialty Examination
Dissertation Research (48 hours)
Admission to candidacy (one year prior to graduation)
Oral defense of doctoral dissertation

Contact Information

• Visit the Admissions Website
• Email Admissions Office Counselor
• Call Admissions Office Counselors: 1-800-211-5097 ext: 3184

For further information on the Operations Research Ph.D. Program curriculum or the acquisition of graduates, please contact:

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