Program Overview

Introduction to INFO 411: Topics in Complexity Science

Complexity science is the study of complex systems, which are characterized by their openness and interactions, making them too complex to be understood by looking at their parts individually. This field of study is crucial for addressing the most pressing issues of the 21st century, such as inequality, biodiversity loss, climate change, economic crises, and healthcare emergencies.

Course Description

In this course, students learn about the theories and methods to rigorously study complex systems by undertaking a self-directed project under supervision. The course enables engagement with researchers from the Chair in Complexity Science and prepares students for further postgraduate study in complexity science.

Course Details

• Dates: 23 Feb 2026 to 21 Jun 2026
• Starts: Trimester 1
• Fees:
  • NZ$1,325.55 for domestic students
  • NZ$4,848.90 for international students
• Campus: Pipitea
• Estimated Workload: Approximately 150 hours or 8.8 hours per week for 17 weeks
• Points: 15 points

Entry Restrictions

• Prerequisites: Permission of the head of school
• Corequisites: None
• Restrictions: None

Course Structure

This offering is run as a fully on-campus self-directed study course. Students engage with contemporary issues in complexity science under close supervision through guided study of complexity science theory and methods and by contributing to a research project that applies theories and methods from complexity science to a real-world problem.

Course Learning Objectives

Students who pass this course will be able to:

1. Critically assess the suitability of modelling techniques for the study of different complex systems
2. Model complex systems
3. Perform complex systems analyses
4. Synthesise the results of complex systems analyses

How This Course is Taught

The course includes bi-weekly 2-hour lab meetings during term time, where research projects are discussed, and peer support from lab members is available.

Assessment

• Presentation 1 (20 minutes) – Project Idea: 20%
• Presentation 2 (20 minutes) – Progress Report: 20%
• Project Deliverable (5000 words research report): 60%

Mandatory Requirements

There are no mandatory requirements for this course.

What You'll Need to Get

You do not need to get any texts or equipment for this course.

Taught By

The School of Information Management — Wellington School of Business and Government.

Disclaimer

This course outline may be subject to change.