by our College Data Analytics TeamSystems Theory is an interdisciplinary major using information from many different subjects. Students will learn to apply a variety of theories to solve complex and intricate problems. This major will open your mind to multiple perspectives as you take classes in the natural and social sciences, technology, human behavior and history.
Successful students will have the ability to make connections between vast amounts of data. You will survey and analyze complex problems and use different data and models to find solutions. You will analyze small amounts of data in order to pull them together to create the big picture. You will be creating systems for almost any topic, from the digestive system to political systems.
Systems Theory was the 254th most popular major in the 2021-2022 school year. Colleges in the United States reported awarding 989 degrees in this year alone. This year's Best Systems Theory Schools ranking compares 15 of them to identify the best overall programs in the country. Continue reading to check out one of our many unbiased rankings of systems theory programs later in this article.
Creativity is very important in this major. You will be exploring many different ideas and methods. As an interdisciplinary subject, you need to understand a wide variety of subjects and be able to apply what you learn to different systems. As an integrative thinker you should constantly want more knowledge to help you advance your ideas. Interacting with your work and analyzing the results will help you gain the critical problem solving skills you will need to succeed.
It is important that you are able to work well with others. You will be working in teams to complete large projects. Be open to ideas from peers; collaborating with others will lead to your success. It will also allow you to more easily take the theories you learn in class and put them into practice.
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for most systems theory degree programs and many students will need a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT score depending on the school. Specific systems theory careers may require a certain level of degree attainment or additional certifications beyond that.
Systems Theory degree levels vary. You can spend many years getting as high as a in systems theory to something that takes less time like a . Depending on the systems theory degree you choose, obtaining your diploma can take anwhere from 1 to 4+ years.
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4 years |
A major in Systems Theory can lead to careers in a variety of industries. Employers will appreciate your broad education and ability to synthesize information. Graduates find work in systems psychology, systems engineering, or systems dynamics. You could also work in software, information technology or sociology.
Recently graduated systems theory students earned an average of $67,567 in <nil>. Earnings can range from as low as $29,539 to as high as $97,856. As you might expect, salaries for systems theory graduates vary depending on the level of education that was acquired.
One of 51 majors within the Multi / Interdisciplinary Studies area of study, Systems Theory has other similar majors worth exploring.
| Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Systems Science & Theory | 989 |
| Related Major | Annual Graduates |
|---|---|
| Other Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | 31,307 |
| Biological & Physical Science | 30,032 |
| Interdisciplinary Studies | 9,114 |
| International Studies | 6,614 |
| Nutrition Science | 5,598 |
Image Credit: By Hiroki Sayama, D.Sc. under License More about our data sources and methodologies.
