Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics), BS
Do you want to be at the edge of exploration, making new discoveries about our planet, our solar system and our universe? Explore cosmology, design and build spaceflight hardware, and engineer new instruments for telescopes and satellites.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Degree description
The Bachelor of Science program in Earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics offers you a fundamental grounding in astronomy and astrophysics, with exposure to the related fields of geology, planetary science and engineering.
You develop a background in theoretical modeling and observational techniques of galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. You engage in rigorous coursework in engineering and computer programming, and you learn to think critically about scientific problems. Through a capstone project, you gain valuable experience in translating science drivers into engineering solutions.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, if you are interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you can visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Courses
Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.
| Sample courses |
|---|
| SES 123 Earth, Solar System and Universe Laboratory |
| SES 121 Earth, Solar System and Universe |
| SES 126 Exploration of the Universe |
| SES 128 Exploration of the Universe Lab |
| SES 230 Coding for Exploration |
| AST 321 Stellar and Planetary Astrophysics |
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.
If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.
See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Solve quantitative problems and test hypotheses with astronomical data utilizing modern computing methods.
- Apply advanced math and physics concepts to solve problems in astronomy and astrophysics.
- Function effectively in a team-based interdisciplinary research environment to formulate solutions for and solve complex scientific and technological problems.
- Effectively apply crucial skills for employment including communication, creative and critical thinking, inquiry and analysis, and problem solving.
Solve quantitative problems and test hypotheses with astronomical data utilizing modern computing methods.Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:
Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Space exploration is an international endeavor, and an international experience gives students opportunities for cross-cultural engagement and to improve their language and communication skills. Global Education allows students to take relevant classes while they live in another country. Each of the more than 300 Global Education program options enables students to develop a valuable skill set that can give them an advantage in their career as well as personal enrichment. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, Global Education programs encourage students to build communication skills, challenge them to adapt and persevere, expose them to differences across the world, and improve their ability to work with diverse groups of people.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimate
Build the career and future you want
Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:
| Career | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | 8.3% | $134,960 | Learn more |
| Aerospace Engineer Technician | 11.9% | $82,890 | Learn more |
| Astronomer | 7.8% | $128,820 | Learn more |
| Data Scientist | 34.6% | $120,230 | Learn more |
| Electrical Engineering Professor | 7.8% | $109,270 | Learn more |
| Engineering Manager | 5.5% | $171,270 | Learn more |
| Geology Professor | 2.4% | $103,170 | Learn more |
| Health Sciences Manager | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Physicist | 7.2% | $172,250 | Learn more |
| Technical Writer | 0.8% | $90,390 | Learn more |
Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
More about careers
Graduates have the skills required for a career in astrophysics, physics and related fields, opening up diverse opportunities for employment in industry, government, education and other settings. They also are prepared to pursue graduate school in astrophysics or to perform laboratory research or data-intensive analyses that enable scientific progress or inform public policy.
Career opportunities include:
- analytical lab technician
- astronomer
- data analyst
- instrumentation specialist
- museum director
- planetary scientist
- research scientist
- science teacher
- science writer
- telescope operator
Career settings include:
- aerospace industry organizations
- educational institutions
- federal, state and local government agencies
- manufacturing centers
- museums or planetariums
- NASA facilities
- national laboratories
- National Science Foundation facilities
- observatories
- space industry organizations
The rigor of this degree makes it excellent preparation for graduate study in the field of astrophysics, especially when combined with a physics minor. Interested students can find more information on thecareer opportunities page on the School of Earth and Space Exploration website.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
School of Earth and Space Exploration
|
ISTB4 795
sese-advising@asu.edu
480-965-5081
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
