We apply the MINOS optimization system to the population synthesis of galactic nuclei, using a grid of star cluster equivalent widths as a function of age and metallicity. For some classes of red galaxy nuclei, this observational approach to population synthesis produces results similar to those predicted by the theoretical approach of Arimoto and Yoshii (1987). The synthesis results for blue nuclei tend to scatter more in the age vs metallicity plane, probably because we use only visible and near-infrared spectral data. Additional information at shorter wavelengths will possibly produce better-focused solutions in the plane. However, strong bursts of star formation can easily be identified. We provide in this contribution population synthesis for the central regions of M31 and M32. The bulge and the semi-stellar nucleus of M31 are dominated by the old metal-rich population: the semi-stellar nucleus has reached up [Z/Z⊙]≃0.6 and the bulge [Z/Z⊙]≃0.3. In the central region of M32, a metallicity up to the solar value has been reached and the synthesis indicates that the intermediate age component is not dominant.