VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Linear & Combinatorial Optimization
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:00
Abstract
Mathematical treatment of optimization techniques for linear and combinatorial optimization problems.
Objective
The goal of this course is to get a thorough understanding of various classical mathematical optimization techniques for linear and combinatorial optimization problems, with an emphasis on polyhedral approaches. In particular, we want students to develop a good understanding of some important problem classes in the field, of structural mathematical results linked to these problems, and of solution approaches based on such structural insights.
Content
Key topics include: - Linear programming and polyhedra; - Flows and cuts; - Combinatorial optimization problems and polyhedral techniques; - Equivalence between optimization and separation.
Resources
Literature
- Bernhard Korte, Jens Vygen: Combinatorial Optimization. 6th edition, Springer, 2018. - Alexander Schrijver: Combinatorial Optimization: Polyhedra and Efficiency. Springer, 2003. This work has 3 volumes. - Ravindra K. Ahuja, Thomas L. Magnanti, James B. Orlin. Network Flows: Theory, Algorithms, and Applications. Prentice Hall, 1993. - Alexander Schrijver: Theory of Linear and Integer Programming. John Wiley, 1986.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Course Website
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 180 minutes
- Aids
- None
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Linear & Combinatorial Optimization (Mathematical Optimization) |
|
4 h weekly |
| exercise |
Linear & Combinatorial Optimization (Mathematical Optimization)
Groups are selected in myStudies.
Thu 14-16 or Fri 10-12 or Fr 12-14 or Fri 14-16 (depending on demand)
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed.)
-
-
-
-
-
Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed.)
-
-
-
-
-
Core Courses (For the Master's degree in Applied Mathematics the following additional condition (not manifest in myStudies) must be obeyed: At least 15 of the required 28 credits from core courses and electives must be acquired in areas of applied mathematics and further application-oriented fields.)
-
-
-
Electives (The entire course programs of ETH Zurich and Universitiy Zurich are open to the students to individual selection. The students have themselves to check whether they meet the admission requirements for a course.)
-
-
-
-
Systems and Control (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Systems and Control", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Systems and Control", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
-
-
Signal Processing and Machine Learning (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Signal Processing and Machine Learning ", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Signal Processing and Machine Learning", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the MSc EEIT.)
-
-
-
-
Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
-
Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Statistics Master (The following courses belong to the curriculum of the Master's Programme in Statistics. The corresponding credits do not count as external credits even for course units where an enrolment at ETH Zurich is not possible.)
-
-
-
-