Online Master of Science in Complex Systems Science

The science of complex systems is a study of interactions. It is the interactions among our cells that enables them to collectively form an individual, the interactions among diverse plants and animals that produce a rich ecosystem. A complexity scientist studies these interactions, among genes, cells, species and people. 

What are complex adaptive systems?

We are surrounded by systems that are essential to our life and well being. Living organisms, ecosystems, corporations, societies, cities and even our bodies are complex adaptive systems. Complex systems are formed when different types of components interact in networks to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. In our bodies, skin cells, blood cells, nerve cells, bone cells and other kinds of cells all interact to form an individual who does not behave like any of the cells they are made from. Plant and animal species interact as predators or prey to cycle nutrients and inhibit or encourage each other's growth in an ecosystem. Individuals, neighborhoods, businesses, utilities and local governments interact in cities.

Complex adaptive systems are organized as groups of components nested within components. In our bodies, different kinds of bone cells are organized into individual bones, which are organized in our skeletal system. The components of complex adaptive systems also transmit and process information, like the nervous system and immune system in our bodies. This enables complex adaptive systems to grow, evolve, adapt and die. Complex systems are at the core of all real-world challenges, ranging from health care and sustainability to engineering, economics and social systems. Learning about the interactions that create complex adaptive systems is key to understanding our world and creating solutions to our most pressing issues.

In a complex adaptive system, the interactions among components within components are many and diverse. Complex adaptive system scientists use advanced information technologies like network science and computational modeling to help them understand how these interactions create emergent properties and enable complex adaptive systems to grow and adapt to a constantly changing environment.