Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Wicked Science

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Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Wicked Science

In the ever-shifting landscape of academia, The Ohio State University stands out with its Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization (GIS) in Wicked Science, a pioneering program open to all students campus-wide.

Navigating the Complexity: GIS in Wicked Science Program

Wicked problems, as coined by Horst Rittel, are multifaceted issues defying straightforward solutions. The GIS program acknowledges the complexity of such problems and equips students with the skills needed to navigate them effectively.

Throughout the program, students engage in real-world projects, applying their learning to address pressing societal issues. From crafting sustainable urban policies to designing community-based health interventions, students gain hands-on experience in making a tangible impact.

Under the guidance of expert faculty mentors, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for tackling wicked problems. The program prepares students for diverse career paths, including academia, public policy, and non-profit organizations.

Ohio State University’s GIS program in Wicked Science is not just an academic pursuit; it’s a transformative journey. By embracing complexity, fostering collaboration, and empowering students to become change agents, this program paves the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Exterior view of University Hall
Graduate Courses in Wicked Science

The Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Wicked Science is administered by Mark Moritz (faculty lead) and Sarah Palazzo, the graduate program coordinator in the Department of Anthropology.

Coordinating Advisor

Graduate Program Coordinator

Applying for Graduate Minors and Interdisciplinary Specializations

  1. Talk to an Advisor – Students should discuss their interest in pursuing a minor/GIS with their advisor and determine how to best incorporate it into their program of study.
     
  2. Submit the Form – Students should submit a Minor and Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization form in GRADFORMS. The form serves as the student’s application. The coordinator of the minor/GIS will be notified to review the application, and the student’s advisor will receive an email notice that the student submitted the form. The plan code for the Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Wicked Sciences is WICKSCI-IS.
     
  3. Form Approval – If the student is accepted into the program, the chair of the minor/GIS program will approve the electronic program form. This action routes the form to the Graduate School.
     
  4. Confirmation – Once the Graduate School confirms the decision, the student will receive a confirmation email.
     
  5. Curriculum Approvals – The student must adhere to the curriculum of the minor/GIS program as indicated on the program form. If changes in the approved curriculum are necessary, the student must have the change approved by the minor/GIS program, which will notify the Graduate School. Departures from the approved minor/GIS program could result in the specialization not appearing on the student’s transcript.
     
  6. Transcript Designation – The deadline to submit the Transcript Designation Form coincides with the Application to Graduate deadline. When the student plans to graduate or has completed the minor/GIS program, they must complete the transcript designation form in GRADFORMS for final review. Once reviewed and approved by the minor/GIS program and the Graduate School, the designation will be posted to the student’s academic record.
     

Note

A graduate interdisciplinary specialization involves two or more graduate programs, and you must take nine credit hours outside of your home program in at least three courses. 

Thus, if you are an EEOB student, you must enroll in the ANTHROP version of the courses to meet the specialization requirements. 

Credit hours can include courses that are required as part of your degree program. The advising sheet has all the information about the program requirements.