operations research

What is Operations Research?

Operations Research analysts apply advanced analytic methods to help leaders in the military, government, business, and other organizations make better decisions. Operations Research analysts use a wide variety of tools to conduct analysis to include optimization, statistics, simulation, and economic models.

What do Operations Research Analysts do in the Army?

Operations Research Systems Analysts (ORSA) serve with the FA49 branch. While some ORSAs teach and conduct research at USMA, most serve at Division staffs and above, as well as in numerous analytic agencies across the Army and DoD. Army ORSAs analyze event data to identify spatial and temporal trends, develop strategies to allocate or employ limited resources, conduct qualitative and quantitative assessments of current operations, improve supply chain and logistics operations, and contribute in many other areas.

What kinds of Master's Degree predominate in the field?

MS in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, and other combinations.

Top Operations Research Programs for Army Officers

  • Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Kansas State University
  • Air Force Institute of Technology
  • Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
  • Penn State
  • North Carolina State University
  • George Mason University
West Point faculty members have attended graduate school through the Army. As a result, they`re familiar with most American universities and would be happy to advise you on this discipline as you consider your options. Feel free to give them a call at: (845)938-8133. When you do so, make sure to identify yourself as a CSP-GRADSO holder.

Researching Potential Schools

A wealth of information regarding graduate institutions is available online. Click on any of the icons below for more information: