Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science), PhD
Program Overview
The PhD in Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science) integrates complex adaptive systems science with traditional life sciences, providing a comprehensive understanding of complex systems across scales. It equips students with interdisciplinary research skills in data analysis, modeling, and computational tools, preparing them for careers in academia, government, industry, and education. The program emphasizes the application of a "complexity lens" to solve real-world problems in diverse domains, including social evolution, ecosystems, human health, and policy analysis.
Program Outline
Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science), PhD
Degree Overview:
Program Description:
- Integrates concepts and methods from complex adaptive systems science with traditional disciplines in the life sciences.
- Emphasizes the application of a "complexity lens" to solve real-world problems across diverse domains.
- Provides a solid foundation in biology while equipping students with interdisciplinary research skills.
Objectives:
- Train future scientists with the expertise to tackle complex issues in areas like social evolution, ecosystems, human health, and policy analysis.
- Foster a comprehensive understanding of complex adaptive systems across different scales and levels of organization.
- Develop advanced research skills through rigorous training in data analysis, modeling, and computational tools.
Careers:
Opportunities:
- Academic positions at institutions of all levels.
- Research roles in government agencies.
- Industry careers with private companies or NGOs focusing on food, agriculture, and healthcare.
- Science instruction at elementary and secondary levels.
- Wildlife, animal, and conservation sciences.
Examples
- Researchers in academic labs (government or private).
- Principal Investigator in governmental labs or NGOs.
- University and college Professors/Instructors.
- Elementary, Secondary & High school Science Educators.
- Wildlife, Animal & Conservation Scientists.
Other:
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's or master's degree from regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 in last 60 hours of bachelor's or in applicable master's program.
- Graduate admission application and fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
- Letter of application to chair of the complex adaptive systems science graduate faculty.
- Program is STEM-OPT certified, offering up to 36 months of post-graduation work in the U.S. for qualified international students.
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary research through the CAS (Complex Adaptive Systems) initiative at ASU.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
Prerequisites:
- Bachelor's or Master's Degree: Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Additional Requirements:
- Graduate Admission Application and Application Fee
- Official Transcripts
Application Process:
Applicants must submit the required documents listed above. Only students admitted to participating doctoral programs may apply for a complex adaptive systems concentration. A letter of application from the student must be sent to the chair of the complex adaptive systems science graduate faculty. The application is reviewed by members of the graduate faculty who make final admission recommendations to the Graduate College.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:
- A minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT
- A minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS Academic
- A minimum score of 100 on the Duolingo English Test
