This is a fundamental and introductory course on optimization theory and introduces basic concepts, theories and methods of optimization techniques. It emphasizes the fundamental theories of important optimization algorithms with a focus on applications to data science. It also equips students with computing algorithms and techniques of applying taught methods to solve practical problems.

Note: To pass the course, apart from obtaining a minimum of 40% in the overall mark, a student must also obtain a minimum mark of 30% in both continuous assessment and examination components.