Foundations of Algorithms - 605.621

This follow-on course to data structures (e.g., EN.605.202) provides a survey of computer algorithms, examines fundamental techniques in algorithm design and analysis, and develops problem-solving skills required in all programs of study involving computer science. Topics include advanced data structures (red-black and 2-3-4 trees, union-find), recursion and mathematical induction, algorithm analysis and computational complexity (recurrence relations, big-O notation, NP-completeness), sorting and searching, design paradigms (divide and conquer, greedy heuristic, dynamic programming, amortized analysis), and graph algorithms (depth-first and breadth-first search, connectivity, minimum spanning trees, network flow). Advanced topics are selected from among the following: randomized algorithms, information retrieval, string and pattern matching, and computational geometry. Prerequisite(s): EN.605.202 Data Structures or equivalent. EN.605.203 Discrete Mathematics or equivalent is recommended. Course Note(s): The required foundation courses may be taken in any order but must be taken before other courses in the degree. Students can only earn credit for one of EN.605.620, EN.605.621, EN.685.621 or EN.705.621