SYST Graduate Courses

SYST 500/CSI 600 Quantitative Foundations for Systems Engineering (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: Math 213, 203.

This course provides the quantitative foundations necessary for core courses in the Systems Engineering and Operations Research Master's program and the Certificate program in C4I. Topics include vectors and matrices, differential and difference equations; linear systems; Fourier, Laplace and Z-transforms, and probability theory. Engineering applications of the topics will be emphasized. Students will receive graduate credit for this course which will, when used on a plan of study, extend the minimum credit hour requirements for the degree. (Fall)

SYST 510 Systems Definition and Cost Modeling (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.

Comprehensive examination of the methods and processes for the identification and representation of system requirements. Investigation of the systems acquisition life cycle with emphasis on requirements definition, including functional problem analysis. Examination of the systems engineering definition\int phase including requirements, problem analysis, definition, and functional economics. Specification of functional and nonfunctional requirements, and associated requirements prototyping. Functional economic analysis, including the use of prevailing cost estimation models and planning and control of common operating environments. Lecture and group project including creation of requirements and use of cost estimation model. (Fall)

SYST 512 Systems Engineering for Design and Development (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 510 or equivalent.

Intensive study of the design and development portion of the systems engineering life cycle for information technology and software intensive systems. Analysis and design processes for information system engineering. Entity-relationship models, object-oriented modeling and analysis, structured analysis and design. Life cycle models for the development of systems. Technical direction and systems management of organizational processes. Systems engineering and information technology standards. (Spring)

SYST 513 Total Systems Engineering, Reengineering and Enterprise Integration (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: SYST 510 or SYST 520.

Principles of strategic quality, including TQM. Quality standards including ISO9000 and 14000. Organizational leadership, cultures, and process maturity, reengineering. Quality, organization learning and reengineering approaches to enable information integration and management and environment and framework integration in the systems engineering of knowledge intensive systems. Emphasis is placed on the role of integrated product and process design teams, standard and commercial off the shelf products in enterprise integration. Architecture driven system characteristics are studied as is transition management of legacy systems.

SYST 520 System Engineering Design (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.

System design and integration methods are studied and practiced, including both structured analysis and object-oriented based techniques. Life cycle of systems is addressed, including definition and analysis of life cycle requirements. Software tools are introduced and used for the systems engineering cycle. Identification of preliminary architectures. Students are expected to develop a system design for a system of their choice using both the structured analysis and object-oriented techniques presented in class, and they will make presentations on these designs. (Fall, Spring)

SYST 521/OR543 Network Analysis (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: MATH 213 and MATH 203 or equivalent; OR 441 or OR 541.

Network nomenclature. Elementary graph theory. Linear and nonlinear network models: multi-commodity flow, mathematical games and equilibria on networks, network design and control. Dynamic network models. Applications to transportation, telecommunications, data communications, and water resource systems. (Fall)

SYST 530 System Management and Evaluation (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.

Provides the necessary techniques for evaluating the cost and operational effectiveness of system designs and systems management strategies. Performance measurement, work breakdown structures, cost estimating, and quality management are discussed. Configuration management, standards, and case studies of systems from different application areas are discussed. (Fall, Spring)

SYST 542 Decision Support Systems Engineering (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 301 or graduate standing.

Studies the design of computerized systems to support individual or organizational decisions. The course teaches a systems engineering approach to decision support system (DSS) development. A DSS is the end product of a development process, and it is this process that is key to successfully integrating a DSS into an organization. Any DSS is built on a theory (usually implicit) of what makes for successful decision support in the given context. Empirical evaluation of the specific DSS and the underlying theory should be carried on throughout the development process. The course examines some prevailing theories of decision support, considers the issues involved in obtaining empirical validation for a theory, and discusses what, if any, empirical support exists for the theories considered. Students design a decision support system for a semester project. (Fall)

This course is intended as an introduction to Air Traffic Control (ATC) for those who plan professions in the aviation industry. It is a necessary introduction for students who will later specialize and take make in-depth courses. The course will survey the entire field, presenting the history of ATC and how it came to be as it is, the technology on which the system is based, the procedures used by controllers to meet the safety and efficiency goals of the system, the organizational structure of the FAA, challenges facing the system and means under investigation to meet these challenges. This course will involve some field work for data collection and analysis. A class project requiring a system simulation will be required.(Fall)

SYST 563 Research Methods in Systems Engineering and Information Technology (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: STAT 344 and 354 or equivalent.

Provides the foundation for one of the most important activities in systems engineering: information gathering to support drawing conclusions and making decisions about design options and process improvements. The course begins by developing an understanding of the scientific process, the use of empirical evidence to support and refute scientific hypotheses, and the use of scientific information in decision-making. The course covers different sources of scientific evidence: designed experiments, quasi-experiments, field studies, surveys, and case studies. The process of formulating testable hypotheses is discussed. Methods of measurement are discussed, including approaches to measuring soft, hard-to-quantify factors. Presentation of results is discussed. Students do a project involving empirical research. (Fall)

SYST 571 Systems Engineering Management (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 471 or SYST 530.

This course is a study of more advanced topics in systems engineering management. This is a seminar style course, and students are expected to read a number of selections from the current literature as well as make presentations and produce papers on engineering management topics. A number of issues in systems engineering management, such as multi- project management, quality programs, and the impacts of process change on the organization will be examined. The course focuses strongly on the practical impacts of various system engineering management techniques and practices on projects, organizations, and personnel. (Fall)

SYST 573 Decision and Risk Analysis (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: STAT 346or equivalent.

Study of analytic techniques for rational decision making that address uncertainty, conflicting objectives, and risk attitudes. This course covers modeling uncertainty; rational decision-making principles; representing decision problems with value trees, decision trees, and influence diagrams; solving value hierarchies, decision trees, and influence diagrams; defining and calculating the value of information; incorporating risk attitudes into the analysis; and conducting sensitivity analysis. (Fall, Spring)

SYST 611 System Methodology and Modeling (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 500 or equivalent.

This course provides a broad, yet rigorous, introduction to methodologies for Systems Engineering. Emphasis is on systems modeling and performance. Topics include system model and behavior analysis, linear and nonlinear systems, discretization and linearization, optimization, dynamic programming and optimal control. These methodologies address system performance issues and assist in the evaluation of alternative system designs. Resource allocation for planning and control is also introduced. (Fall)

SYST 619/ECE 672 Introduction to Architecture Based Systems engineering (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 510 or SYST 520 or equivalent or equivalent.

Lifecycles in systems engineering and the role of systems integration and architecting in these. Conceptual frameworks for systems architecting. Structure, function, and purpose of systems architecting and integration. Risk management and systems architecting and integration. User requirements and functional specifications in systems architecting.(Fall)

SYST 620/ECE 673 Discrete Event Systems (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 611 or ECE 521 or equivalent.

Introduction to modeling and analysis of discrete event dynamical systems. Course covers elements of discrete mathematics and then focuses on Petri Net models and their basic properties. Relation to other discrete event models of dynamical systems. (Fall)

SYST 621 Systems Architecture Design (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 520 or ECE 672 and SYST 620 or ECE 673.

An intensive study of the relationships between different types of architecture representations and the methodologies used to obtain them. Approaches based on systems engineering constructs, such as structured analysis and software engineering constructs, including object orientation, are used to develop architecture representations or views and to derive an executable model of the information architecture. The executable model is then used for behavior analysis and performance evaluation. The roles of the systems architect and the systems engineer are discussed. Examples from current practice including the C4ISR architectures are (Spring)

SYST 622/ECE 675 System Integration and Architecture Evaluation (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 620 /ECE 673, Corequisite SYST 621/ECE 674.

The System Integration Problem. The role of architectures in systems integration. Integration in a System of Systems and a Federation of Systems. Evaluation of architectures. Measures of performance and effectiveness. Assessment of system capabilities. Analysis of Alternatives. (spring)

SYST 659 Topics in Systems Engineering (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

Topics not covered in the department's regular systems engineering offerings. Course content may vary each semester depending on instructor and the perception of students' needs. Course may be repeated once for credit. (Fall, Spring)

SYST 660 Air Transportation Systems Modeling(3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 460/560 or permission of instructor.

The student will be introduced to a wide range of current issues in air transportation. The issues include: public policy toward the industry, industry economics, system capacity, current system modeling capability, human factors considerations, safety analysis and surveillance systems and new technological developments. The student is expected to develop a broad understanding of the contemporary and future issues. The student's knowledge will be evaluated through class discussions, a take mid-term exam and a term project to be completed by the end of the semester. (Fall)

SYST 664/STAT 664 Bayesian Inference and Decision Theory (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: STAT 544 or STAT 554 or equivalent.

This course introduces students to decision theory and its relationship to Bayesian statistical inference. Students will learn the commonalities and differences between the Bayesian and frequentist approaches to statistical inference, how to approach a statistics problem from the Bayesian perspective, and how to combine data with informed expert judgment in a sound way to derive useful and policy relevant conclusions. Students will learn the necessary theory to develop a firm understanding of when and how to apply Bayesian and frequentist methods, and will also learn practical procedures for inference, hypothesis testing, and developing statistical models for phenomena. Specifically, students will learn the fundamentals of the Bayesian theory of inference, including probability as a representation for degrees of belief, the likelihood principle, the use of Bayes Rule to revise beliefs based on evidence, conjugate prior distributions for common statistical models, and methods for approximating the posterior distribution. Graphical models are introduced for constructing complex probability and decision models from modular components.

SYST 671/OR 671 Judgment and Choice Processing and Decision Making (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: STAT 510,STAT544 or permission of the instructor.

Intuitive nature of human judgment and decision making, and some methods currently being used for improving individual and group decision. The nature of judgment emphasizing limitations on human information processing abilities. The use of decision-analytic techniques to improve decision making. (Fall)

SYST 677/OR 677/STAT 677 Statistical Process Control (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: STAT 510, STAT 554, or STAT 544 or equivalent.

Introduction to the concepts of quality control and reliability. Acceptance sampling, control charts, and economic design of quality control systems are discussed, as are system reliability, fault-free analysis, life testing, repairable systems, and the role of reliability, quality control, and maintainability in life-cycle costing. The role of MIL and ANSI standards in reliability and quality programs is also considered.

SYST 680/ECE 670/OR 683 Principles of Command, Control, Communications, Computing, and Intelligence (C4I) (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: ECE 528 or SYST 611 or equivalent.

Fundamental principles of C4I are developed from a descriptive, theoretical, and quantitative perspective. The principles and techniques are applicable to a wide range of civilian and military situations. Topics include C2 process; modeling and simulation for combat operations; detection, sensing, and tracking; data fusion and situation assessment; optimal decision making; methodologies and tools of C4I architectures; tools for modeling and evaluations of C4 systems such as queuing theory are also included. (Fall)

SYST 683 Modeling, Simulation, and Gaming (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: MATH 213, SYST 500 or equivalent and graduate standing.

Develops methods for designing combat models and games. Existing combat models are critical to the C4I process. Exercises and games are used to demonstrate the value of properly developed C4I modules in a combat simulation.

SYST 684 Sensor Data Fusion (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: SYST 680 or ECE 670.

Examines design issues in multisensor fusion systems. Studies the use of probability, evidence, and possibility theories for object identification. Studies Bayesian networks, blackboard architectures, and spatial and temporal reasoning for situation assessment.

SYST 685 Estimation and Tracking: Principles and Techniques (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: ECE 528 or OR 542 or STAT 544 or equivalent

Principles and estimation techniques for static and dynamic systems, linear and nonlinear, discrete and continuous time. Estimation for kinematic models, track initiation, bearing-only tracking, tracking maneuvering targets with adaptive filtering, MM (Multiple Model) and Interactive MM algorithms. Tracking single target in clutter, nearest neighbor algorithm, tracking and data association, Multiple hypothesis tracking. Tracking performance evaluation.

SYST 691/EEP 601 Introduction to Enterprise Engineering: Engineering and Policy. (4:3:1)
Prerequisite: INFS 614 , or equivalent.

This course provides an overview of Extended Enterprise Integration. Lectures focus on the SAP architecture and the R/3 standard software solution. Laboratory requires students to complete an end-to-end implementation project with the Great Plains Software midrange ERP solution, Dynamics C/S +. For modeling, students must demonstrate complete proficiency in the Architecture of Information Systems (ARIS) methodology, and the supporting ARIS Toolset.

SYST 692/EEP 602 Decision Support for Enterprise Integration. (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 542 and SYST 691.

Lectures focus on the use of "Business Intelligence" to enhance competitive advantage; developing an information driven set of controls to improve profitability; and emphasize the creation of a balanced business with aligned corporate direction and strategic intent. Solutions provided within ERP systems are examined.

SYST 693/EEP 603 Supply Chain Integration and Management (Business-to Business Electronic Commerce). (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 691.

Lectures focus on two issues: Supply chain integration from an information technology perspective, and supply chain management from a decision support perspective. The motivation for the course is the merging of enterprise computing with operations research, primarily through customer/supply chain management systems. Topics include ERP/Web integration, advanced planning, and customer relationship management.

SYST 694/EEP 604 E-Commerce Architectures (Business-to-Consumer Electronic Commerce). (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 691.

Introduction to the network and system architectures that support high volume business to consumer web sites and portals. Course provides insight into the structure of the modern web enabled storefront. Critical business and technology issues include Storage Area Networks (SANs), server clustering, load balancing techniques at the server and network level, fault tolerance, and recovery of database and application servers.

SYST 695/EEP 605 Economics of Electronic Commerce. (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 691.

Focuses on gaining competitive advantage through Electronic Commerce implementation; the identification and growing of new market opportunities, as well as the electronic enabling of existing business relationships; business-to-consumer relationships, as well as the economics of strategic procurement, ERP hosting, customer relationship management, catalog hosting, portal operations, and supplier management.

SYST 696/EEP 606 Customer Relationship Management. (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 691.

Focuses on the "front office" and its integration with the "back office." The modern world of eCommerce extends intra-enterprise integration [as implemented in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems] to include external constituents, such as customers, partners, and suppliers. Course is focused on modern system support for the Demand Chain, and the value creation process that results from integrating the front office systems (e.g., CRM) with the back office systems (ERP).

SYST 697/EEP 607 Critical Information Technology Infrastructures (3:3:0)
Prerequisite: SYST 694.

Design and implementation of high-speed network and application services in support of modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Critical technologies include high-speed data communication, switched vs. routed data flow, workflow engines, business rule and web application servers, and load balancing technologies. A large-scale web enabled ERP system architecture will be examined in detail.

SYST 698 Independent Study and Research (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: Graduate standing, completion of at least two core courses, permission of instructor.

Study of a selected area in systems engineering or C4I under the supervision of a faculty member. A written report is required. (Fall), (Spring), (Summer)

SYST 760 Special Topics in Command, Control, Communications, Computing, and Intelligence Systems Engineering (3:3:0).
Prerequisite: SYST 680.

Special topics in the C4I area, with different content in different terms. Representative areas include quantitative evaluation of C4 systems, applications of artificial intelligence in C4 systems, and military communications systems.

SYST 781/INFS 781/STAT 781: Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery (3:3:0).
Prerequisites: SYST/STAT644 or CS 650 or INFS 623 or equivalent.

This course is concerned with methods and systems for deriving user-oriented knowledge from large databases and other information sources, and applying this knowledge to support decision making. Information sources can be in numerical, textual, visual, or multimedia forms. The course covers theoretical and practical aspects of current methods and selected systems for data mining, knowledge discovery, and knowledge management, including those for text mining, multimedia mining, and web mining.

SYST 798 Research Project (3:0:0).
Prerequisite: 21 graduate credits.

Research project chosen and completed under the guidance of a graduate faculty member, resulting in an acceptable technical report.

SYST 799 Master's Thesis (1-6:0:0).
Prerequisites: 21 graduate credits and permission of instructor.

Research project chosen and completed under the guidance of a graduate faculty member, which results in a technical report acceptable to a three-faculty-member committee, and an oral defense.