CSE529: Algorithms for Modern Computing Systems

Syllabus: Fall 2024

Prof. Russ Miller

338F Davis Hall

Read this before sending e-mail to miller@buffalo.edu

Syllabus:

Teaching Environment:

Overview: This course is concerned with the design and analysis of algorithms for sequential and parallel models of computation. Traditional algorithmic techniques, including divide-and-conquer, will be discussed. Models of computation include the traditional RAM, as well as standard parallel models, including the shared-memory PRAM, as well as networked models configured as arrays, rings, meshes, hypercubes, and pyramids. We also consider innovative parallel models that involve dynamic reconfiguration. In addition, we discuss algorithmic strategies for Network of Workstations, clusters, grids, and clouds. Problem domains include computational geometry, graph theory, image analysis, sorting, and searching. Time, space, and processor complexity of solutions to problems are a critical component to the course.

History of CSE4/529: I have been teaching this course for 35+ years. It was originally labeled CS4/531, then CSE4/531, and then, and currently, CSE4/529. Note that students are permitted to take both a course in algorithms for modern compute systems (CSE4/529) and a course in traditional sequential algorithms (CSE4/531).

Beginning with the 2023-24 academic year, CSE429 and CSE529 have been separated. CSE529 will be taught to graduate students during Fall semesters, while CSE429 will be taught to undergraduate students during Spring semesters.

Prerequisites: Calculus I, Calculus II, Discrete Structures, and an upper level course in Data Structures and their Algorithms. In particular, CSE250 (Data Structures) is required and CSE331 (Introducation to Algorithms) is highly recommended.

Students are responsible for the material in chapters 1-13 of Introduction to Algorithms, by Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest, and Stein. This includes, for example, asymptotic notation, recurrence equations, and quicksort. In addition, students are also responsible for pointers, lists, stacks, queues, binary trees, and balanced trees (e.g., AVL, Red/Black, B-trees).

Lecture: TTh 2:00-3:20 via Zoom


Academic Integrity:Plagairism in any way, shape, or form, will earn you an F in the course with a notation on your transcript that the F was a result of Lack of Academic Integrity. In addition, other sanctions will likely be sought, including, but not limited to, being dismissed from the university.

University Information:


  • Course Dates
  • Course Information

    Reading Material

    Projected Order of Material (with chapters from M&B listed):

    Succeeding in this course (student view): Students consistently state that the following is key to success in this class.

    Piazza: You will be enrolled in Piazza after the Drop/Add deadline.

    Grading Policy:

    Final Letter Grades: These are the final "curved" grades. (That is, there is no need to ask me during the semester if I will curve the final grades.) These numbers are points, not percentages, and include any additional bonus points (i.e., there will be more than 100 points available in the course). There will be "+"s and "-"s that will be determined after the numeric grading for the semester is complete.

    Sample Exams (Midterms only; No solutions):

    Personnel

    Disclaimer: I reserve the right to change any part of this syllabus at any time.



    Copyright © 2024 by Russ Miller.

    All rights reserved. No part of this document may be used in any form by any electronic or mechanical means without permission in writing by the author.