Continuous Optimization 7.5 credits

About the course

Element 1 (4.5 hp) Theory
This part contains theory for nonlinear optimization. The course starts with a discussion of basic notions like classification of optimization problems, objective functions, constraints, feasible solutions, optimal solutions. Then fundamental convexity theory is addressed. A general optimization algorithm is defined, and notions like convergence rate, line search, descent- and ascent directions and optimality conditions are discussed. Optimality conditions for free optimization problems are introduced, and Newton's method for free optimization problems is studied. Next, optimization problems with constraints, Lagrange functions and Lagrange multipliers are defined, and optimility conditions (The Karush-Kuhn-Tucker conditions) are introduced. The duality concept and weak and strong duality theorems are discussed. Finally, some mathematical modeling examples leading to optimization problems are discussed.

Element 2 (3 hp) Computer labs
This part contains implementation of some approximation methods for free optimization problems (steepest descent, quasi-Newton method), and constrained optimization problmes (feasible-point methods, the SQP method). Furthermore, one assignment includes both mathematical modeling, formulation of an optimization model and finding an approximate solution of the model with suitable software.

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Autumn 2026
- Continuous Optimization
  
  Second admissions round for EU/EEA citizens
  
  HT26 / Umeå / English / On site
  
  Application opens 16 March 2026
  
  Save education at universityadmissions.se
  
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  Starts
  31 August 2026
  
  Ends
  1 November 2026
  
  Number of credits
  7.5 credits
  
  Type of studies
  On site
  
  Study pace
  50%
  
  Teaching hours
  Daytime
  
  Study location
  Umeå
  
  Language
  English
  
  Application code
  UMU-58009
  
  Eligibility
  
  The course requires 60 ECTS in Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics or minimum 120 ECTS and in both cases courses in Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations minimum 7,5 ECTS and a basic course in computer programming or equivalent.Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.
  
  Selection
  
  Guaranteed place
  
  Application
  The online application opens 16 March 2026 at 09:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 April 2026. Please note: This second application round is intended only for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
  
  Application and tuition fees
  As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
  
  Application fee: SEK 900
  
  Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 19,038
  
  Total fee: SEK 19,038
  
  Details about tuition, fees and funding

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