Computer Science 690AG - Algorithmic Game Theory

This course offers a graduate-level introduction to topics at the interface of theoretical computer science and economics, with a focus on strategic and learning-based interactions. We will cover the basics of mechanism design, auctions, and pricing, as well as models of strategic behavior such as Nash equilibrium and the price of anarchy. Additional topics include learning in games, strategic classification, and dynamics in multi-agent systems. While COMPSCI 515 focuses on cooperation, social choice, and fair division, this course emphasizes competitive settings and mechanism design. Students interested in both perspectives are encouraged to take both courses, which are designed to be complementary; however, prior completion of COMPSCI 515 is not required.

Open to graduate Computer Science students only. Basic background in algorithms and complexity (compsci 311 or equivalent) and probability. As a comparison, compsci 515 focuses on cooperation, social choice, and fair division. This course emphasizes competitive settings and mechanism design. Students interested in both perspectives are encouraged to take both courses, which are designed to be complementary. Prior completion of compsci 515 is not required. Students needing special permission must request overrides via the on-line form: https://www.cics.umass.edu/academics/course-overrides.