Indonesian Journal of Advanced Research (IJAR)
Vol. 5 No. 6 (2026): June 2026

Application of the Welch-Powell Graph Coloring Algorithm for Optimizing Course Scheduling Using Python (Case Study: Computer Science Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, HKBP Nommensen University, Pematangsiantar)

Ropitta Anjelina Manik (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)
Juli Antasari Sinaga (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)
Gayus Simarmata (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Jul 2026

Abstract

Course scheduling is the process of assigning courses to specific time slots and classrooms while taking into account various applicable academic constraints. This study discusses the application of graph theory in the development of a course schedule for the Computer Science Program at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA). The main problem in course scheduling is schedule conflicts caused by instructors teaching more than one course. To address this problem, the graph coloring method using the Welch-Powell algorithm is employed. Each course is represented as a vertex, while scheduling conflicts between courses are represented as edges based on shared instructors. The research process begins with the construction of a conflict graph, the determination of vertex degrees, and the sorting of vertices by highest degree, followed by the graph coloring process using the Welch-Powell algorithm. The coloring results show that course schedules can be grouped into several colors representing class days without causing conflicts in faculty schedules. Semester 2 requires 4 colors, semester 4 requires 5 colors, semester 6 requires 6 colors, and semester 8 requires 2 colors. The research results show that the graph coloring method using the Welch-Powell algorithm is capable of producing a more structured and effective class schedule while minimizing faculty schedule conflicts. Thus, the application of graph theory can serve as an alternative solution in the process of developing class schedules in higher education settings.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijar

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Computer Science & IT Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Indonesian Journal of Advanced Research (IJAR) is an open-access and peer-reviewed journal, published by Formosa Publisher, which is mainly intended for the dissemination of research results by researchers, academics, and practitioners in many fields of science and technology. IJAR publishes ...