UAlbany CSI 501 Computational Algebra and Optimization (Fall 2025) Tentative Syllabus

(Note this is a tentative syllabus as the full syllabus is being developed in summer.)

1 Basic information

Time: Wednesday and Friday 1:10-2:30pm
Dates: Wednesday Aug 27, 2025 - Friday Nov 21, 2025
Credits: 3
Classroom: Pine Bush 248
Concentration in CS program: Theoretical Computer Science

Instructor:
Prof. Chong Liu, cliu24 AT albany.edu
Office hours: TBA

Teaching Assistant:
TBA

Final Exam:
None

Reference Books:
TBA

2 Schedule

TBA

3 Contents

Topics to be covered:

• Linear Algebra Review
• Matrix Compuatations
• Matrix Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors
• Matrix Decomposition
• Least Square Problem
• Gradient Descent
• Convex Optimization
• Constrained Optimization
• Newton and Quasi-Newton Methods
• Bayesian Optimization
• Applications

4 Course Policy

TBA

5 Resources

5.1 Students with disabilities

Reasonable accommodations will be provided for students with documented physical, sensory, systemic, cognitive, learning and psychiatric disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring accommodation in this class, please contact Disability Access and Inclusion Student Services (DAISS). They will provide the course instructor with verification of your disability, and will recommend appropriate accommodations.

5.2 Title IX

The University at Albany recognizes that in order to maintain a healthy, safe, and vibrant living and learning community, it must continue to foster an environment free from gender inequality and sexual violence. In furthering its commitment to that cause, the University has appointed a full-time administrator to ensure our realization of this important agenda. Further information can be found at this website.

5.3 Diversity and Inclusion

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s primary role is to carry out the University at Albany’s mission to ensure that diversity — in our people and in our ideas — drives excellence in everything we do.

5.4 Campus resources to support basic needs

It is difficult to succeed academically if you don’t have enough to eat, a safe place to live and sleep, or are struggling with an unforeseen emergency. Knowing the resources available on your campus to help you succeed is key! If you need help meeting these or other basic needs, please seek assistance from Supplemental Support Services in the Dean of Students Office. View the basic needs assistance offerings at here. While you’re there, see the variety of helpful services available to you at the Dean of Students.

5.5 Counseling & Psychological Services

Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) provides compassionate, confidential and inclusive mental health care to registered UAlbany students. All services are covered by your tuition and fees.

6 Statement on copyright of course materials

My lectures and course materials, including presentations slides, written notes, recorded lectures, homework assignments and similar materials, are protected by U.S. copyright law and by university policy. I am the exclusive owner of the copyright in those materials I create. You may take notes and make copies of course materials for your own use. You may also share those materials with another student who is enrolled in or auditing this course. You may not reproduce, distribute or display (post/upload) lecture notes or recordings or course materials in any other way — whether or not a fee is charged — without my express prior WRITTEN consent. You also may not allow others to do so.

If you do so, you may be subject to student conduct proceedings under the UAlbany Student Code of Conduct.