Welcome to Analysis of Algorithms

Contact Information

Instructor: Dr. Robert I. Pitts
Office Location: PP 422
Office Hours: Mon-Thu 9-9:30AM; Mon/Wed 12:30-3PM; Tue/Thu: 12-3PM (on campus in PP 422 or PP 035S [see schedule outside office], via Zoom by appointment)
Phone: 617-405-5944
Email: rpitts@quincycollege.edu

Course Description

This course explores the application and efficiency of algorithms. Topics include dynamic programming, balanced trees, graph and sort algorithms, and Big-O notation.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Identify the mathematics essential in the process for analyzing algorithms (CLO1).
  2. Implement balanced trees for efficient storage and retrieval (CLO2).
  3. Analyze time and space trade-offs in sorting algorithms (CLO3).
  4. Apply dynamic programming to solve computational problems (CLO4).
  5. Compare and contrast the various search techniques for graphs (CLO5).

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

Course Materials

Course Textbook:

  • Cormen, T. H.; Leiserson, C. E.; Rivest, R. L.; & Stein, C. (2022). Introduction to algorithms. The MIT Press.

Third-party Software:

During this course, you might have the opportunity to use public online services and/or software applications sometimes called third-party software such as a blog or wiki. While some of these could be required assignments, you should not provide personal information about yourself or your classmates on a public site. Where appropriate, you may use a pseudonym or nickname. Some written assignments posted publicly may require personal reflection/comments, but the assignments will not require you to disclose any personal information. If you have any concerns about this process, please contact your instructor.

Course Syllabus & Course Map

  • Course Syllabus
  • Course Map (the map will be developed as we proceed through modules this semester)

What's the point of the Course Map?

The Course Map allows you to see the why of the course content. By referring to this map, you will be able to see which course- and module-level objectives are linked to each module's assessments and activities.

Academic Integrity

Please read and familiarize yourself with the following Quincy College academic integrity policies: 

  • Student Code of Conduct: Students at Quincy College are expected to maintain the highest ethical standards. Academic dishonesty is considered a serious breach of these ethical standards because it interferes with the College mission to provide a high-quality education in which no student enjoys an unfair advantage over any other. Please refer to Policy 6.16: Student Code of Conduct Policy in the QC Policy Manual Links to an external site..
  • Academic Integrity: Academic dishonesty is also destructive to the College community, which is grounded in a system of mutual trust and places a high value on personal integrity and individual responsibility. Please refer to Policy 5.15: Academic Integrity Policy in the QC Policy Manual Links to an external site..
  • The Quincy College Policy Manual: For detailed information about the mission, vision, commitment to excellence, and general policies of Quincy College, please refer to the QC Policy Manual Links to an external site..

Accessibility & Privacy Policies

Various tools and technologies will be utilized throughout this course. For information on the privacy and accessibility standards of specific technologies, please refer to the following policies:

QC Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides academic support, accommodations, and many other services to meet student accessibility needs. For further information, or if you feel you require support, please contact Student Accessibility Services Links to an external site..

QC Student Success

Need Help?

Free support services are available for QC's online learners. You can access resources and assistance through QC's Student Services. Links to an external site.

Next Steps: Begin This Course

Complete the following:

  1. Review the material in the Start Here module.
  2. Complete the Getting to Know You Survey.
  3. Participate in the Course Introductions discussion board.
  4. Complete the Syllabus & Course Quiz.

Click the Next ▶ button to continue.