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Blekinge Institute of Technology
Department of Mathematics and Natural Science
Revision: 1
Reg.no: BTH-4.1.14-0732-2026
Course syllabus
Optimization
Optimization
3 credits (3 högskolepoäng)
Course code: MA1515
Main field of study: Mathematics
Disciplinary domain: Natural sciences
Education level: First-cycle
Specialization: G1F - First cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Language of instruction: English
Applies from: 2026-09-17
Approved: 2026-09-17
1. Decision
This course is established by Dean 2026-03-04. The course syllabus is approved by Head of Department of Mathematics and Natural Science 2026-09-17 and applies from 2026-09-17.
2. Prior knowledge
2.1 Entry requirements
To be admitted to the course, 10 completed credits in Mathematics are required.
2.2 Assumed prior knowledge
- The student must have basic knowledge of single-variable and multivariable calculus, as well as linear algebra, or equivalent, at university level.
- The student must understand functions, limits, continuity, derivatives, and integrals, as well as familiarity with vectors, matrices, and systems of linear equations.
3. Objective and content
3.1 Objective
The course aims to provide knowledge in various linear programming problems, to find solutions to linear programs, and to show applications of linear optimization theory to various theoretical and practical subjects.
3.2 Content
- Examples of linear programming
- Graphic representation and reading
- The geometry of linear programming
- Simplex method
- Duality theory
- Primal and dual problem formulations
- Optimization with multiple variables and constraints
- Nonlinear non-convex and convex optimization problems
- Lagrange functions and their relation to the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker conditions
4. Learning outcomes
The following learning outcomes are examined in the course:
4.1. Knowledge and understanding
On completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- have an understanding of basic principles and geometry for optimization.
- know what linear optimization and especially linear programming is and how it works.
- know what a nonlinear program is.
- formulate the Lagrange function and determine the dual Lagrange function for convex optimization problems.
- know the most common English terms in the field of optimization.
- understand the meaning of primal and dual problem formulations.
4.2. Competence and skills
On completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- use Lagrange's multiplier theorem.
- solve simpler linear problems with the complementarity theorem.
- verify with the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker conditions that a solution to a nonlinear convex optimization problem is optimal.
- translate problem formulations into programs.
4.3. Judgement and approach
On completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- independently analyze and propose solution principles for different types of optimization problems.
5. Learning activities
The course is normally given as a campus course and consists of lectures, laboratory session and exercises. Depending on circumstances, parts of the course may be offered in hybrid or distance formats.
6. Assessment and grading
Modes of examinations of the course
| Code | Module | Credit | Grade |
| 2705 | On-Campus Examination | 2 credits | AF |
| 2715 | Laboratory Session | 1 credits | GU |
The course will be graded A Excellent, B Very good, C Good, D Satisfactory, E Sufficient, FX Failed result, a little more work required, F Fail.
The examiner may carry out oral follow-up of written examinations.
The information before the start of the course states the assessment criteria and make explicit in which modes of examination that the learning outcomes are assessed.
An examiner can, after consulting the Disability Advisor at BTH, decide on a customized examination form for a student with a long-term disability to be provided with an examination equivalent to one given to a student who is not disabled.
7. Course evaluation
The course evaluation should be carried out in line with BTH:s course evaluation template and process.
8. Restrictions regarding degree
The course can form part of a degree but not together with another course the content of which completely or partly corresponds with the contents of this course.
9. Course literature and other materials of instruction
Lundgren, J. et al. (2010) Optimization. First edition. Studentlitteratur. ISBN: 9789144053080.
Materials distributed by the department may be added.