Many real-world algorithmic problems cannot be solved efficiently using traditional algorithmic tools, for example, because the problems are NP-hard. The goal of the Approximation Algorithms course is to become familiar with important algorithmic concepts and techniques needed to effectively deal with such problems. These techniques apply when we don't require the optimal solution to certain problems, but an approximation that is close to the optimal solution. We will see how to efficiently find such approximations.
Approximation Algorithms
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7
(33 reviews)
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
14 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
4 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
There are 4 modules in this course
In the module the motivation for studying approximation algorithms will be given. We will discuss what optimization problems are, and what the difference between heuristics and approximation algorithms is. Finally, we will introduce the concept of approximation ratio, which plays a central role in the analysis of the quality of approximation algorithms.
What's included
1 video1 reading1 assignment
In this module we will study various approximation algorithms for the load balancing problem. This problems asks to distribute a given set of jobs, each with a certain processing time, over a number of machine. The goal is to do this such that all jobs are finished as soon as possible. We will analyze the quality of the computed solutions computed using the concept of rho-approximation, which we saw in the previous lecture. In this analysis we will see that lower bounds on the optimal solution play a crucial role in the analysis (or, for maximization problems: upper bounds).
What's included
3 videos1 reading1 assignment1 programming assignment
In this module we will introduce the technique of LP relaxation to design approximation algorithms, and explain how to analyze the approximation ratio of an algorithm based in LP relaxation. We will do this using the (weighted) Vertex Cover problem as an example. Before we explain the technique of LP relaxation, however, we first give a simple 2-approximation algorithm for the unweighted Vertex Cover problem.
What's included
6 videos2 readings1 assignment
In this module we will introduce the concept of Polynomial-Time Approximation Scheme (PTAS), which are algorithms that can get arbitrarily close to an optimal solution. We describe a general technique to design PTASs, and apply it to the famous Knapsack problem. Finally we will see how to analyze PTASs that are designed with the general technique.
What's included
6 videos2 readings1 assignment1 programming assignment
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.8 (11 ratings)
Offered by
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Learner reviews
4.7
33 reviews
- 5 stars
78.78%
- 4 stars
15.15%
- 3 stars
3.03%
- 2 stars
3.03%
- 1 star
0%
Showing 3 of 33
SM
4
Reviewed on Oct 10, 2020
Please try to include some more numeric example like load balancing problem in the vertex cover and rest topics
LP
4
Reviewed on Feb 24, 2021
Very good course! A nice introduction to approximation algorithms.
New to Algorithms? Start here.
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.
More questions
Financial aid available,