Complexity Science ,BS
Applied Mathematics, Biology, Computation, Data, Disease, Mathematics, Population, Risk, Simulation, Social Sciences, analysis, approved for STEM-OPT extension, life sciences, models, statistics, theory
Complexity science is a lens for understanding the systems that shape our world, from cells and organisms to societies and ecosystems. Ready to make sense of complex data and build an impactful career? Learn to analyze and design data-driven solutions for real-world problems with data science, computational modeling, and systems thinking.
The 21st century is the century of complexity, and the Bachelor of Science in complexity science at ASU is the first comprehensive undergraduate program in the United States dedicated to mastering it.
You learn to think across disciplines and apply computational tools to solve real-world problems. The curriculum blends complexity methods, advanced mathematics, and complexity understanding courses, developing practical skills in data analysis, Python programming, and agent-based modeling.
Complexity science courses challenge you to explore the big questions: How can data and models guide better decisions? How do health, education, business and policy interact to shape specific outcomes? You can combine your degree with electives, a minor or a second major to focus on the areas that excite you the most.
Through this program, you have the unique opportunity to intern at ASU's Decision Theater, where you can apply what you learn in class to real-world projects that model systems in industries like health care, transportation and energy.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
Rob Walton College of Global Futures
- Location: Tempe
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 270 - Calc w/Analytic Geometry I
- Math
intensity: Substantial
This video provides an overview of the Complexity Science degree program at ASU.
What If: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission
ASU students who would like to change their major to complexity science must have a minimum cumulative ASU GPA of 2.50 based on at least 12 credit hours of ASU coursework.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students of all majors, including programs in the Rob Walton College of Global Futures, are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.
Students can find programs specific to their interests on the Rob Walton College of Global Futures study abroad webpage and additional opportunities and information on the ASU Global Education Office website. These sites also include additional information about applying for funding to support global travel.
In a world defined by constant change and interconnection, complexity science is the new literacy for leadership, innovation and impact.
Graduates of the BS program in complexity science are uniquely equipped for careers where they have to make sense of complex, data-rich systems. After this program, they can move confidently into roles that involve research, strategy, analytics and innovation; or pursue advanced study in fields such as data science, medicine, law, public policy or sustainability.
Because complexity science reveals how patterns emerge across human, natural and technological systems, its principles apply everywhere, from predicting market trends and managing supply chains to modeling disease outbreaks and designing resilient cities.
The program emphasizes applied learning and interdisciplinary fluency, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in areas such as:
- bioinformatics and epidemiology
- business intelligence and innovation strategy
- climate and sustainability analytics
- data and network science
- finance, insurance and risk management
- policy analysis and public administration
- technology, security and systems design
- urban systems and smart infrastructure
As the world's problems become increasingly interconnected, professionals who understand complexity have a decisive advantage --- they see not just the parts, but the whole system.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
1.2%
|
$98,920
|
|
|
8.8%
|
$101,860
|
|
|
33.5%
|
$120,230
|
|
|
33.5%
|
$120,230
|
|
|
-0.7%
|
$126,710
|
|
|
6.5%
|
$117,330
|
|
|
8.5%
|
$105,650
|
|
|
3.4%
|
$89,320
|
School of Complex Adaptive Systems
|
WCPH 4th floor
cgfadvising@asu.edu
480-727-6963
Program term definitions
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
