Advanced Nonlinear Optimisation (MAST90142)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Not available in 2025
About this subject
Overview
| Fees | Look up fees |
|---|
Many optimisation problems in the real world are inherently nonlinear. A variety of industries, including telecommunications networks, underground mining, microchip design, computer vision, facility location and supply chain management, depend on the efficient solution of nonlinear programs. This subject introduces the foundational mathematical concepts behind nonlinear optimisation. Some of the concepts covered include convex analysis, optimality conditions, conic programming, and duality. Various methods to solve nonlinear programs are covered, including iterative methods such as conjugate gradient methods, barrier methods and subgradient methods. This subject also explores the application of geometric methods such as perturbation and variational approaches to problems in facility location and network design.
Intended learning outcomes
After completing this subject, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental mathematical theory behind nonlinear optimization;
- Model and analyse nonlinear optimisation problems;
- Apply various methods to solve nonlinear optimisation problems, including convex, non-convex, differentiable and non-differentiable problems.
Generic skills
- Problem-solving skills: the ability to engage with unfamiliar problems and identify relevant solution strategies
- Analytical skills: the ability to construct and express logical arguments and to work in abstract or general terms to increase the clarity and efficiency of analysis
- Time-management skills: the ability to meet regular deadlines while balancing competing commitments
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAST30013 | Techniques in Operations Research | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Written assignment (equivalent to approximately 15 hours)
| Week 3 | 15% |
Written assignment (equivalent to approximately 15 hours)
| Week 10 | 15% |
Written Examination
| During the examination period | 70% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
Not available in 2025
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 March 2025