Automatic and optimal determination of a topology is a crucial step in the process of structural optimization. Usually, the search for an optimal topology is the first step for the definition of the structure layout, found as an optimal distribution of material inside of a pre- established domain. This dissertation has as an objective to present a simple methodology for topology optimization, given a structural system, defined by support conditions, load and a design domain.Typically, a problem of topology optimization tries to obtain an optimum connectivity of the structure in a design domain, seeking to minimize the compliance (or maximize the stiffness) with constraints over the total volume of the structure. Since the introduction of homogenization methods,the research field in the area of topology optimization increased and new criteria are being developed.In this dissertation a methodology is presented for the solution of problems of topology optimization of structures in a continuum medium. The parametrization of the constitutive tensor is made through materials of the type SIMP (Solid Isotropic Microstruture with Penalty). The proposed mathematical problem is of minimization of the total volume of the structure with constraint to the external work while obeying implicitly the equilibrium constraints and connectivity of the structure. The static analysis of the structure is accomplished by the Finite Elements Method using the program FEMOOP (Finite Element Method - Object Oriented Program) developed by the research group in computer graphics of DEC/PUC-Rio.Several methods are suggested for the resolution of the mathematical problem of topology optimization. Among them there are some purely heuristic and others aided by a solid mathematical base. In this dissertation, the problem of topology optimization is solved through techniques of mathematical programming, applying the technique of convex sequential programming, using the algorithm of the Method of Moving Asymptots (MMA).The development of a computer program in topology optimization allowed us to determine automatically an optimal topology, and the study of solution algorithms and criteria of topology optimization were of great importance to a larger understanding of structural models.