Complex adaptive systems science is the study of interactive and dynamic systems that change over time.

The complex adaptive systems science concentration program under the PhD in sustainability trains the next generation of scientists in advanced concepts and methods needed for approaching diverse phenomena in the social and life sciences. The program is tightly integrated with varied, ongoing, university-wide research on complex adaptive systems science at Arizona State University and emphasizes the value of a complex adaptive systems science perspective for better insight and an active role in seeking solutions to a broad array of critical issues facing society today. Students become fluent in the common language of complexity while also receiving a solid foundation in the domain knowledge of existing academic disciplines.

By broadly embedding an understanding of complex adaptive system-relevant approaches into the practice of normal science, students gain the ability to transform science. The program promotes the development and testing of more robust theories and sophisticated methods in a wider array of research settings needed in order to develop a deeper understanding of the nature and dynamics of complex adaptive systems, which are grounded in concrete examples and applications.

The program prepares students to become scientists and leaders in research and to investigate the urgent sustainability challenges of this century. Graduates possess an understanding of the need for a transdisciplinary approach to solving sustainability challenges; the ability to communicate their work to professionals in other disciplines, to policymakers and to the general public; and the breadth of vision to recognize the interconnectedness of social, economic, environmental and technical systems. Their critical thinking skills enable them to approach sustainability challenges from a systems perspective; they also have the skills needed to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and the technical skills to formulate and solve problems at the appropriate scale.

In addition to the common learning outcomes, graduates are able to conduct research on particular sustainability challenges using standard skills, including the capacity to identify problems; to formulate and test hypotheses; to use statistical, econometric and geographical information system techniques to construct and analyze datasets; and to build and apply models. They are prepared to lead others in the analysis and design of the built environment and institutions' policies, regulations and technologies to support sustainable development and lead others in applying these concepts and methods to the development of sustainable strategies for water, land, air and urban management at the local and global levels. Graduates understand the concepts and methods of a number of critical disciplines bearing on the sustainability of systems at different spatial and temporal scales.

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term 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 the degree through ASU Online.