Complexity Science ,BS
Applied Mathematics, Biology, Calculus, Computation, Computer, Data, Disease, Life, Mathematics, Population, Risk, Simulation, Social Sciences, analysis, approved for STEM-OPT extension, life sciences, models, statistics, theory
This program's name has changed effective Fall 2025. The previous name was Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences.
Do you want to understand how to address complex challenges through innovative concepts, advanced computation and data science? Problems facing health, the environment, cities and societies are often more complicated than people realize. Learn how to better understand complexity and develop informed solutions to confront the challenges we face today.
The Bachelor of Science program in complexity science offers a novel approach to investigating, integrating and solving problems in the life and social sciences in such topics as mass violence, contagion, wildlife--human interactions and the spread of behaviors through social networks.
Degree-seekers in this program are immersed in the use of computational modeling and data science methods, and concepts for understanding the interconnections among people, technology and the natural world. These innovative approaches contribute to diverse fields such as anthropology, biology, global health, sustainability, technology and environmental social science.
The insights and skills gained enable students to apply quantitative approaches as they develop accurate, flexible and practical answers desperately needed to address critical contemporary issues.
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:
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
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 applied mathematics for the life and social sciences 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 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 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.
Graduates of the program have the quantitative, scientific and analytical skills that are critical for professionals working in the environmental, life, health, mathematical and social science fields. Nationally recognized experts ensure that graduates are well equipped for prestigious career paths in research, government, medicine, technology, security or other fields that require rigorous data analysis, with an insight into complex interactions across social, biological, physical and technological systems.
The need for scientists and professionals quantitatively trained in the transdisciplinary social and natural sciences is strong in Arizona and the nation. Skills in the applied use of mathematics, modeling, statistics and simulation methodologies, which are emphasized in the program, are in high demand and provide excellent training for future academics and professionals in industries including:
- bioinformatics
- climate science
- data science
- ecology
- epidemiology
- genomics
- network science
- policy analysis
- population dynamics
- urban planning
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 |
|---|---|---|
|
3.9%
|
$87,300
|
|
|
6.1%
|
$76,480
|
|
|
35.2%
|
$103,500
|
|
|
35.2%
|
$103,500
|
|
|
6.1%
|
$76,480
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$50,470
|
|
|
2.2%
|
$112,110
|
|
|
8.2%
|
$102,120
|
|
|
31.6%
|
$98,920
|
|
|
3.7%
|
$79,540
|
School of Complex Adaptive Systems
|
WCPH 4th floor
cgfadvising@asu.edu
480-727-6963
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
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. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. 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.
