Decision Sciences and Data Analysis

ACC 522 Statistical Methods for Business Decisions (3)

Extensive coverage of sampling techniques for decision making. Includes simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, treating unequal clusters, area sampling, imperfect frames, questionnaire design, and field operations. Prerequisite: BITM 220 or AMAT 108 or equivalent. http://www.albany.edu/acc/courses/acc522.fall2003/

CRJ 694 Spatial Data Analysis (4)

The course introduces the student to a variety of methods and techniques for the visualization, exploration, and modeling of spatial data. The emphasis is on understanding concepts underlying spatial data analysis and on description and exploration of data. The main objectives are to teach students about geographic data and its organization, basic concepts of spatial statistics, applications of exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) techniques, point and area pattern analysis and spatial auto-correlation. Course will consist of both lecture and lab work. Prerequisite: permission of department.

CSI 435 Introduction To Artificial Intelligence (3)

An introduction to the broad spectrum of approaches and techniques of Artificial Intelligence. Emphasis on how to represent knowledge in a computer and how to process that knowledge to produce intelligent behavior. Topics include expert systems, heuristic search, natural language processing and logic-based approaches. Programming assignments using artificial intelligence languages. Prerequisite(s): ICSI 311.

CSI 445 Topics in Computer Science: Data Mining (3)

The contents of this course will vary from semester to semester. Each offering will cover an advanced senior-level topic in Computer Science. Prerequisite(s): ICSI 333 (or ICSI 205 & 310) or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit when content varies. http://www.cs.albany.edu/~davidson/courses/FallCSI661-DataMining/DataMiningWebPage.htm

CSI 515 Combinatorial Algorithms (3)

Efficient algorithms for optimization and search problems involving networks and other combinatorial structures. Efficient solutions from integer, linear, or mixed programming formulations. Application of advanced data structures and algorithm analysis techniques to algorithms from current literature. Prerequisite: ICSI 503.

CSI 535 Artificial Intelligence I (3)

A first course in artificial intelligence (AI) introducing basic concepts and techniques. Topics include problem representation, production systems, heuristic search, predicate logic, and structured representation of knowledge. Techniques of sample search and sample problem solving systems are represented. Exercises in a selected AI programming language. Prerequisites: ICSI 310, departmental examination in discrete mathematics.

CSI 539 Advanced Data Structures (3)

Data structures for efficient retrieval in the context of problems relating to aggregation, reporting, quantifier evaluation, and range queries in both dynamic and static settings. K-d trees, k-fold trees, balanced trees, and other advanced topics. Prerequisite: ICSI 503.

CSI 630 Computational Logic (3)

Theorem of term rewriting and equational logic. Unification and AC- Unification. Completion procedures_Knuth-Bendix procedure and its extensions, Groebner basis algorithms. Computer methods for proofs by induction. Geometry theorem proving and polynomial ideals. Refutational methods for first-order theorem proving. Comparison with other theorem proving approaches. Topics covered may change from year to year. Prerequisite: ICSI 530 or knowledge of mathematical logic.

CSI 635 Artificial Intelligence II (3)

A continuation of the materials introduced in ICSI 535. Prerequisite: ICSI 535.

CSI 636 Natural Language Processing (3)

Construction of programs that use human language. Topics include morphology, syntax, parsing, semantic representation, resolution of ambiguity, generation, and discourse. Prerequisite: ICSI 535 or permission of instructor.

EAPS 614 Quantitative Methods for Educational Management (3)

Introduction to the basic methods of quantitative analysis for management in educational settings. Topics include methods for description, modeling, forecasting, inference, and presentation of data relevant to monitoring, assessment, and planning in education. Includes use of spreadsheet and other analytical tools.

EAPS 714 - Introduction to Research Methods in Educational Administration & Policy Studies (3)

Survey of research methods and designs applicable to topics in educational administration, decision making, and policy analysis with emphasis on how to choose effective methods and the consequences of those choices. Prerequisites: EAPS614 or passing department's statistics qualifying examination. Open to doctoral students only. Normally offered fall semesters.

ECO 320 Economic Statistics (3)

Statistical techniques in economic analysis. Topics include distribution theory and statistical inference as applied to regression models. Students gain experience in testing economic theories using a computer regression package. Prerequisite(s): AECO 110M and 111M; AECO 210 or AMAT 106, 111, 112, or 118.

ECO 420 Applied Econometrics (3)

Application of regression to a problem chosen by the student. Some general discussion of data sources, the derivation of index numbers and other problems that might be encountered in estimating economic relations. Emphasis is on class presentation and analysis of student projects. Prerequisite(s): AECO 320.

ECO 519 Economic Surveys & Forecasting (3)

This course introduces the survey methodology in economics and business for forecasting purposes. Surveys include those of households, experts, and establishments. Topics include: Survey data and methodologies, evaluation of survey data and forecasts, use of survey data in time series modeling techniques for forecasting purposes. Discussion of such important macroeconomic indicators as the leading economic indicators, NAPM index, Diffusion Indices, Consumers sentiment, Price and Industrial Production indices, etc. are included.

ECO 520 Quantitative Methods I (3)

Introduction to quantitative methods in economics. Techniques of data analysis, statistical theory, and linear regression are applied to economic problems.

ECO 521 Quantitative Methods II (3)

Continuation of ECO 520. Econometric extensions of linear regression, forecasting, and methods of analyzing time-series and cross-section data.

ECO 525 Time Series & Forecasting (3)

This course introduces univariate and multivariate time series models for forecasting in economics. Topics include ARIMA, VAR and GARCH models, unit roots and co-integration, out-of-sample forecasting techniques, model selection, response function analysis and variance decompositions, state space models, various non-linear models, Bayesian approaches and forecast evaluation. Case studies and real-life applications in business and finance will be used.

ECO 529 Forecasting in the Public Sector (3)

The course offers a comprehensive analysis of the role, importance, and mechanics of economic forecasting in the public sector including the Federal, State governments, and in international organizations like IMF, World Bank, and OECD. The quality of these forecasts in relation to private market forecasts will be explored. The importance of long-term and short-term forecasts for revenues, taxes, economic growth, Medicaid and Medicare expenditures, welfare caseloads, transportation, etc. will be studied from the standpoint of planning and budgetary purposes. The role of bias in these forecasts due to economic and political uncertainties, and other institutional factors are analyzed.

ECO 590 Internship in Forecasting (3)

Experience in the application of forecasting techniques in government, business, or the nonprofit sector.

ECO 592 Seminar in Forecasting (3)

Theory and application of forecasting techniques in the public and private sectors. A research paper is required. Prerequisite: Consent of department.

ECPY 720 Computer Applications in Counseling Psychology (3)

Focus on contemporary computer software for the analysis of advanced statistical data, with concentration on the analysis of variance and regression analysis. Current versions of SPSS, SAS, JMP, SYSTAT, and other software packages for the analysis of complex statistical data will be emphasized. Prerequisites: EPSY 630, ECPY 724, or equivalent.

ECPY 724 Regression Analysis for Counseling Research (3)

Introduction to bivariate and multiple regression analysis in counseling research including bivariate correlation and regression, partial and semi-partial correlation, multiple regression, and correlation, tests of hypotheses, and regression diagnostics. Prerequisite: EPSY 630 or equivalent.

ECPY 725 Multivariate Applications in Counseling Psychology (3)

Applications of multivariate methods in counseling psychology. Emphasis on the applications of the general linear model and related topics to the analysis and interpretation of data typically encountered in counseling psychology research. Mastery of available computer programs for analyzing such data will be a central topic. Prerequisites: EPSY 630 (or equivalent) and EPSY 731 (or equivalent).

EPSY 751 Multivariate Methods for Applied Researchers and Evaluators (3)

Selected topics dealing with the selection, interpretation, and communication of findings that result from using multivariate methods in applied research and evaluation. Emphasis on determining appropriate methods of analysis, documenting and communication these needs, and interpreting the analyses in client/lay language. Pre-requisite: EPSY 630 or equivalent; and EPSY 750 (either prior to or concurrently) or equivalent.

EPSY 752 Program Evaluation and Policy Studies in Education and Human Services (3)

Survey of program evaluation and policy study methods as used in education and human service domains. Included selection of appropriate methodology, utilization of information, and standards of practice. Emphasis on use by policy makers, program administrators, and service providers.

GOG 502/PLN 504 Spatial Analysis (3)

This course introduces statistical methods most commonly used in social sciences, including descriptive statistics, inferential methods, bivariate methods, and regressions in various forms. Given diverse background of the students, this course will emphasize conceptually understanding statistical methods, knowing when to use which methods, how to use them, how to execute them in statistical software, and how to interpret the results from computer output. Prerequisite: background in univariate statistics, or AGOG 396 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. http://www.albany.edu/~yhuang/GOG502_Statistics.html

GOG 585 Digital Image Analysis (3)

Examination of current concepts and research in digital image analysis with emphasis on multispectral and radar data sets. Students will utilize a variety of data sources including optical and digital imagery, maps, census data, ground surveys, and other GIS data layers in completing an interpretation and analysis of selected geoscience aspects of environmental concern. Methods and importance of accuracy assessment are introduced. Prerequisite: AGOG 485 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. http://www.albany.edu/faculty/fmh06/agog485/

GOG 593 Topics in Image Analysis (3)

Topics in remote sensing including geographic information systems, digital image analysis, and interpretation. Topics to vary by semester. Can be repeated once for credit.

HIS 590 Quantitative Analysis and Computing for Historians (4)

Introduction to the use of descriptive and inferential statistics in historical research, including computer applications such as data base management, graphics, and data analysis. Students learn how to read and evaluate articles and monographs employing a variety of statistical techniques and measures, as well as conduct research. http://www.albany.edu/history/history590/

INF 701 Proseminar in Information Science (4)

The dual nature of information management - using information technology and holdings to manage an organization's tactical and strategic future and managing its information resources. Information resources to support operations, decision-making, and strategic planning within private, public, and not-for-profit organizations. Applied field project at an information intensive organization. Prerequisite: Consent of Ph.D. program director or instructor.

ITM 322 Statistical Decision Systems (3)

This course is designed to expose students to decision-making models in the presence of uncertainty. Students will learn how to build multi-parameter models that can be input into decision support systems. Forecasting as well as quality control systems will be covered. Statistical techniques such as multiple regression, analysis of variance, and chi- square tests will be taught with the aid of software packages. Prerequisite(s): BITM 220 or equivalent; BITM 330 or concurrent enrollment. Capped at 40. Offered each fall and spring.

ITM 513 Quantitative Analysis for Business (3)

This course is designed to train students to make business decisions using quantitative techniques. Analytic skills such as problem solving and critical thinking will be taught through the use of probability and logical reasoning. Concepts including simulation and regression will be covered with the aid of software packages. Students will work on projects involving quality control and forecasting. Business skills such as risk management and inventory planning will be emphasized. Capped at 40. Offered each fall and spring.

PAD 204 Computer Modeling For Decision Support (3)

Making tough decisions - can computers help? Students will learn to use Internet technologies as well as techniques in computer modeling for critical thinking, policy analysis, and decision support. Topics include a review of quantitative methods for strategic analysis, tools for helping make tough decisions, and a survey of formal modeling techniques.

PAD/PUB 504 Data, Models, and Decisions I (4)

Introduction to computer-based tools for planning, policy analysis, and decision-making. Topics include administrative and policy models in spreadsheets, dynamic models in difference equations and spreadsheets, making decisions with multiple criteria, resource allocation, probability and decision trees, data bases and information management, and telecommunications in local networks and the Internet. Prerequisites: Familiarity with word processing on either IBM or Macintosh platforms and good standing on the Department's mathematics diagnostic test. http://www.albany.edu/~sschuman/Syllabus-504-F04.doc

PAD 511 Special Topics in Public Administration: Homeland Security Applications Data, Models, and Decisions (1)

An intensive introduction to the competencies required of professionals in public service. The course is an experientially based set of modules designed to provide basic competencies in the field of public administration, including decision-making and group skills, oral and written presentation skills, project management skills, and career analysis and enhancement skills. http://www.albany.edu/~sschuman/Syllabus-511-F04.doc

PAD 611 Decision-Making in Government and Administration (4)

Rational decision theory and decision-making practice as illustrated by case materials. Topics covered may include: the economic concept of utility and maximization; the analytic problems of modeling and uncertainty; the psychological considerations of individual preferences and risk-taking behavior; the organizational and political context of decisions and its effect on agency choice; and current trends in public decision-making structures.

PAD 620 Normative Decision-Making (4)

The course reviews optimal decision-making models under constrained resources (linear programming) and uncertainty (classic decision analysis) and explores the relationships between these prescriptive models and descriptive approaches in both the simulation and modeling and judgment and decision-making tracks of Decision and Policy Sciences.

PAD 625 Bargaining and Negotiation (4)

Survey of theories of bargaining and negotiation, with emphasis on the use of analytic and quantitative methods to help understand and facilitate negotiation processes. Extensive use of simulation, exercises, role-playing, and cases.

PAD 634 Seminar on Judgment and Decision-Making Behavior (4)

The social/psychological literature related to the cognitive processes of information integration and judgment is intended to provide both a better understanding of decision-making behavior in administrative settings and an improved ability to make administrative judgments. Applicability to human resource problems is stressed. Prerequisite: RPAD 611 or consent of instructor.

SOC 220 Introduction to Social Research (3)

Examination of the assumptions and techniques of social research: problems of design, data collection, quantitative and qualitative analysis; review of current research in professional journals; the uses of survey research; application of concepts through individual and class projects. For Sociology majors and intended majors, ASOC 220 is restricted to A-E grading after matriculation at Albany. Prerequisite(s): ASOC 115M or 115G.

SOC 221 Statistics for Sociologists (3)

Introduction to quantitative analysis of sociological data: methods of summarizing and describing univariate distributions including the use of tables and graphs; methods of examining relationships between two or more measures; statistical inference and hypothesis testing. For Sociology majors and intended majors, ASOC 221 is restricted to A-E grading after matriculation at Albany. Prerequisite(s): ASOC 115M or 115G.

SOC 420Z Selected Topics Seminar in Research Methods (3)

An intensive examination of a specialized topic in sociological research. Topics vary by instructor, but can include survey analysis and reporting, qualitative methods, multivariate analysis, experimental design. Prerequisite(s): ASOC 115M or 115G; 220, 221, and 235; or permission of instructor.

SOC 481Z Selected Topics Seminar in Crime and Deviance (3)

An intensive examination of how to use data on deviance and crime in evaluating social theories and policies about deviance and crime, including significant exposure to primary literature and critical class discussion. Topics vary by instructor. Prerequisite(s): ASOC 115M or 115G; 220, 221, and 235, or permission of instructor.

SOC 509 Research Methods (3)

Theory construction and verification use of statistics in social research, qualitative research techniques, sampling, measurement, data collection and analysis, policy research, and use of computer in research. A research paper is required. Prerequisite: Admission to graduate study or consent of instructor.

SOC 552 Demographic Techniques (3)

Overview of basic methods and data sources for the analysis of demographic processes. Topics include measures of fertility, mortality and migration, life tables, demographic standardization, population estimates and projections, and stable and stationary populations. Prerequisite: ASOC 551.

SOC 602 Research Issues in the Sociology of Deviance (3)

Empirically testing theories of deviance. Methodological issues in theory testing, problems in formulating theories into testable models. Review of deviance research bearing on each of the major theories.

SOC 609 Multivariate Analysis (3)

A detailed exposition of the "general linear model," including ordinary and generalized least squares solutions. Multi-equation models will also be covered. Prerequisite: ASOC 509 or consent of instructor.

SOC 622 Categorical Data Analysis (3)

Covers one or more advanced topics in multivariate statistical methods, including logit/probit models, log-linear models, structural equation models, LISREL, factor analysis, time-series analysis, and event history analysis. Prerequisite: ASOC 522 or consent of instructor.

SOC 708 Multilevel Analysis (3)

Intensive investigation of a specific topic, to be announced by instructor. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ASOC 609 or ASOC 622 or permission of the instructor.