• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Coursera
  • Coursera Plus
  • Log In
  • Join for Free
    Coursera
    • Browse
    • Operations Research

    Operations Research Courses Online

    Study operations research for solving complex organizational problems. Learn about optimization, simulation, and decision analysis techniques.

    Skip to search results

    Filter by

    Subject
    Required
     *

    Language
    Required
     *

    The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

    Learning Product
    Required
     *

    Build job-relevant skills in under 2 hours with hands-on tutorials.
    Learn from top instructors with graded assignments, videos, and discussion forums.
    Learn a new tool or skill in an interactive, hands-on environment.
    Get in-depth knowledge of a subject by completing a series of courses and projects.
    Earn career credentials from industry leaders that demonstrate your expertise.
    Earn career credentials while taking courses that count towards your Master’s degree.
    Earn your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree online for a fraction of the cost of in-person learning.
    Complete graduate-level learning without committing to a full degree program.
    Earn a university-issued career credential in a flexible, interactive format.
    Graduate level learning within reach.

    Level
    Required
     *

    Duration
    Required
     *

    Skills
    Required
     *

    Subtitles
    Required
     *

    Educator
    Required
     *

    Explore the Operations Research Course Catalog

    • G

      Google

      Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User

      Skills you'll gain: Package and Software Management, File Systems, Microsoft Windows, Desktop Support, Linux, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, Linux Administration, Remote Access Systems, System Monitoring, Command-Line Interface, User Accounts, Systems Administration, Windows PowerShell, Technical Support and Services, File Management, Linux Commands, Software Installation, Identity and Access Management, Authorization (Computing)

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      29K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • I

      IBM

      AI Foundations for Everyone

      Skills you'll gain: ChatGPT, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence, Data Ethics, OpenAI, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), IBM Cloud, Private Cloud, Data Loss Prevention, Deep Learning, WordPress, Artificial Neural Networks, Cloud Services, Application Deployment, Governance, Machine Learning, Business Transformation, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Software Development Tools, Image Analysis

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      26K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      University of Pennsylvania

      Finance & Quantitative Modeling for Analysts

      Skills you'll gain: Return On Investment, Financial Reporting, Finance, Financial Data, Capital Budgeting, Financial Statements, Financial Modeling, Mathematical Modeling, Statistical Modeling, Regression Analysis, Business Modeling, Income Statement, Financial Analysis, Risk Analysis, Cash Flows, Business Mathematics, Financial Planning, Spreadsheet Software, Google Sheets, Excel Formulas

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      17K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: New AI skills
      New AI skills
      G

      Google

      Google Cybersecurity

      Skills you'll gain: Threat Modeling, Network Security, Incident Response, Vulnerability Management, Computer Security Incident Management, Hardening, Stakeholder Communications, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Threat Management, Cybersecurity, Network Protocols, Vulnerability Assessments, Network Architecture, Event Monitoring, Bash (Scripting Language), Operating Systems, Security Controls, Debugging, Python Programming

      Build toward a degree

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      50K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: New AI skills
      New AI skills
      G

      Google

      Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce

      Skills you'll gain: Media Planning, Search Engine Marketing, Email Marketing, Data Storytelling, Social Media Strategy, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media, Social Media Marketing, Content Creation, Order Fulfillment, A/B Testing, Target Audience, Digital Marketing, E-Commerce, Loyalty Programs, Social Media Management, Customer Retention, Persona Development, Performance Measurement, Marketing Automation

      Build toward a degree

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      39K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google

      Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design

      Skills you'll gain: UI/UX Research, Design Thinking, User Research, User Experience Design, User Centered Design, Usability, Persona (User Experience), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Prototyping, Wireframing, Sprint Planning

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      73K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • U

      University of California, Davis

      Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

      Skills you'll gain: Search Engine Optimization, Persona Development, Web Analytics and SEO, Social Media Strategy, Competitive Analysis, Target Audience, Content Marketing, Peer Review, Social Media, Content Strategy, Social Media Marketing, Google Analytics, Presentations, Forecasting, Expectation Management, User Research, Digital Marketing, Relationship Management, Marketing Strategy and Techniques, Digital Content

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      13K reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • G

      Google

      System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services

      Skills you'll gain: Systems Administration, Cloud Infrastructure, IT Infrastructure, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Active Directory, Disaster Recovery, Server Administration, Linux Administration, Cloud Computing, Servers, Windows Servers, Network Infrastructure, Data Storage, Virtualization, User Accounts

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      26K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • G

      Google

      Foundations of Cybersecurity

      Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Security Controls, Cyber Attacks, Information Systems Security Assessment Framework (ISSAF), Security Strategy, Security Awareness, Cyber Risk, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Information Assurance, Data Ethics, Network Analysis, Personally Identifiable Information

      Build toward a degree

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      33K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • J

      Johns Hopkins University

      Clinical Trials Operations

      Skills you'll gain: Clinical Data Management, Clinical Trials, Sample Size Determination, Clinical Research, Data Quality, Quality Assurance, Data Cleansing, Data Management, Regulatory Compliance, Data Integrity, Microsoft Excel, Statistical Reporting, Data Compilation, Data Collection, Scientific Methods, Biostatistics, Data Sharing, Patient Safety, Risk Management, Ethical Standards And Conduct

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      492 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • I

      IBM

      IBM DevOps and Software Engineering

      Skills you'll gain: CI/CD, Istio, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Continuous Integration, Software Development Life Cycle, Linux Commands, Agile Software Development, Unit Testing, Cloud Computing Architecture, Application Deployment, Test Driven Development (TDD), Gherkin (Scripting Language), Jenkins, Kubernetes, Bash (Scripting Language), Cloud Services, Git (Version Control System), DevOps, Jupyter, Grafana

      Build toward a degree

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      59K reviews

      Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free
      Free
      D

      Deep Teaching Solutions

      Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects

      Skills you'll gain: Learning Strategies, Time Management, Human Learning, Willingness To Learn, Mental Concentration, Creativity, Persistence, Problem Solving, Self-Discipline, Stress Management, Self-Awareness

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      92K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Operations Research learners also search

    Operations Management
    Operations Analytics
    Business
    Management
    Business Management
    Business Development
    Project Management
    Business Projects
    1234…349

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular operations research courses

    • Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User: Google
    • AI Foundations for Everyone: IBM
    • Finance & Quantitative Modeling for Analysts: University of Pennsylvania
    • Google Cybersecurity: Google
    • Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce: Google
    • Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design: Google
    • Search Engine Optimization (SEO): University of California, Davis
    • System Administration and IT Infrastructure Services: Google
    • Foundations of Cybersecurity: Google
    • Clinical Trials Operations: Johns Hopkins University

    Skills you can learn in Business Strategy

    Modeling (25)
    Market (economics) (21)
    Plan (19)
    Planning (16)
    Strategic Management (16)
    Business Model (13)
    Operations Management (13)
    Analytics (12)
    Evaluation (12)
    Project Management (11)
    Supply Chain (10)
    Decision-making (9)

    Frequently Asked Questions about Operations Research

    Operations research is the use of statistical analysis and mathematical optimization techniques to help organizations solve problems and improve decision-making. The ability to harness vast amounts of data on day-to-day operations has created opportunities to rigorously optimize processes for cost, quality control, inventory management, and other goals, making operations research an important part of many businesses.

    The tools of operations research are similar to those of other fields relying heavily on quantitative analysis and statistics. Operational data is input into programs such as Microsoft Excel and Solver, R, and Python, where mathematical optimization techniques such as linear programming (LP) are applied to find the best solution for business problems. Monte Carlo simulations and other probabilistic analyses may also be used to discover areas of sensitivity and risk.

    These data-driven insights are typically applied according to process management and process improvement frameworks such as Six Sigma and Lean, which strive to reduce variation and eliminate waste in operations.‎

    Operations research is a core competency of careers in operations management, supply chain management, and logistics. This skill is particularly highly valued by businesses in manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and other industries where companies must compete to deliver goods and services with complex supply chains in cost-sensitive markets.

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, operations research analysts earned a median annual salary of $84,810 in 2019. These jobs are also expected to grow much faster than jobs in the rest of the economy, due to the explosive growth in the availability of operations data along with the increasing importance of adopting these data-driven approaches to remain competitive in many industries. Operations research analysts typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in technical and quantitative fields such as engineering, computer science, analytics, or mathematics, as few schools offer degrees in operations research specifically.‎

    Certainly. Coursera offers courses and Specializations on operations research and related topics such as supply chain and operations management, operational analytics, and statistical research. Offered by excellent schools such as the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Melbourne, and Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, these courses give you the opportunity to learn remotely on a flexible schedule and a lower tuition than on-campus students. Whether you’re a student or mid-career professional looking to add new skills to your repertoire, Coursera gives you the opportunity to optimize your operations research education to fit your specific needs.‎

    The skills and experience that you might need to already have before starting to learn operations research may include knowledge of mathematical and engineering methods, understanding of the fundamentals of business, and some background in linear programming, a math technique to solve systems of linear constraints. All of these can help you fully grasp the basics of operations research. Furthermore, having a background that includes computer algorithms and optimization techniques can help you to better analyze optimization problems in computer science, civil engineering, economics, and management. This multifaceted field is also linked with machine learning, as some operations researchers are sampling machine learning methods to test various metrics in a particular optimization process.‎

    The kind of people who are best suited for operations research work are often quantitative thinkers who are detailed and analytical. These people use mathematics formulas to help companies study labor needs, cost scenarios, product distribution, and other factors. In doing this work, they need to be curious, methodical, rational, and logical. Because operations researchers understand how algorithms, math, and statistics may impact workflows, budgets, employee staffing, and profitability, they also tend to be the kind of people who are investigative in nature, using their intellect and curiosity in the work.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Operations Research, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

    Other topics to explore

    Arts and Humanities
    338 courses
    Business
    1095 courses
    Computer Science
    668 courses
    Data Science
    425 courses
    Information Technology
    145 courses
    Health
    471 courses
    Math and Logic
    70 courses
    Personal Development
    137 courses
    Physical Science and Engineering
    413 courses
    Social Sciences
    401 courses
    Language Learning
    150 courses

    Coursera Footer

    Technical Skills

    • ChatGPT
    • Coding
    • Computer Science
    • Cybersecurity
    • DevOps
    • Ethical Hacking
    • Generative AI
    • Java Programming
    • Python
    • Web Development

    Analytical Skills

    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Big Data
    • Business Analysis
    • Data Analytics
    • Data Science
    • Financial Modeling
    • Machine Learning
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Power BI
    • SQL

    Business Skills

    • Accounting
    • Digital Marketing
    • E-commerce
    • Finance
    • Google
    • Graphic Design
    • IBM
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Social Media Marketing

    Career Resources

    • Essential IT Certifications
    • High-Income Skills to Learn
    • How to Get a PMP Certification
    • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
    • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
    • Popular Data Analytics Certifications
    • What Does a Data Analyst Do?
    • Career Development Resources
    • Career Aptitude Test
    • Share your Coursera Learning Story

    Coursera

    • About
    • What We Offer
    • Leadership
    • Careers
    • Catalog
    • Coursera Plus
    • Professional Certificates
    • MasterTrack® Certificates
    • Degrees
    • For Enterprise
    • For Government
    • For Campus
    • Become a Partner
    • Social Impact
    • Free Courses
    • ECTS Credit Recommendations

    Community

    • Learners
    • Partners
    • Beta Testers
    • Blog
    • The Coursera Podcast
    • Tech Blog
    • Teaching Center

    More

    • Press
    • Investors
    • Terms
    • Privacy
    • Help
    • Accessibility
    • Contact
    • Articles
    • Directory
    • Affiliates
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Manage Cookie Preferences
    Learn Anywhere
    Download on the App Store
    Get it on Google Play
    Logo of Certified B Corporation
    © 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
    • Coursera Facebook
    • Coursera Linkedin
    • Coursera Twitter
    • Coursera YouTube
    • Coursera Instagram
    • Coursera TikTok