Earth and Space Exploration (Geological and Planetary Sciences), BS
Explore Earth's past, present and future. Study natural hazards, the distribution of critical minerals and the record of Earth system evolution. Apply this knowledge to help find sustainable solutions for the energy and resource needs of human civilization and to mitigate the effects of natural hazards and climate change.
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 an emphasis in geological and planetary sciences uncovers the processes that have shaped Earth and other planets since the origin of the solar system. You explore the coevolution of Earth's life, oceans, atmosphere and climate system and how their evolution is recorded in rocks, soil, ice and isotopes.
You learn traditional and modern field methods, data analysis and more to effectively study the natural environment. This knowledge empowers you to work for the benefit of local, national and global communities. You also have the opportunity to study the potential for extraterrestrial life and the possibilities for the colonization of space.
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 are advised to 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 121 Earth, Solar System and Universe |
| SES 123 Earth, Solar System and Universe Laboratory |
| SES 122 History of the Earth and Solar System |
| SES 124 History of the Earth and Solar System Laboratory |
| SES 230 Coding for Exploration |
| GLG 305 Dynamic Earth |
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).
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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 problems in the Earth and planetary sciences using their understanding of the formation, structure and composition of the Earth and planets.
- Synthesize scientific data in the context of geologic material properties, processes, and time.
- Effectively apply crucial skills for employment including communication, creative and critical thinking, inquiry and analysis, and problem solving.
- Interpret geologic history from field and/or remote sensing data.
Solve problems in the Earth and planetary sciences using their understanding of the formation, structure and composition of the Earth and planets.
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.
With more than 300 programs available, Global Education enables students in the geological and planetary sciences concentration to gain hands-on experience in a variety of programs all over the world.
Graduates with heightened cultural competency, leadership and critical thinking skills acquired through study abroad may stand out in a competitive field.
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 recieve 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Analyst | 5.3% | $73,010 | Learn more |
| Forester | 2.2% | $76,400 | Learn more |
| Geologist | 5.1% | $101,920 | Learn more |
| Geology Professor | 2.4% | $103,170 | Learn more |
| Hydrogeologist | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Hydrologist | 1.5% | $96,600 | Learn more |
| Park Ranger | 5.3% | $73,010 | 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 are well prepared for a wide variety of careers in growing fields such as environmental geology, hydrogeology, geographical information systems analysis, critical mineral exploration, environmental consulting and natural resource management.
Career opportunities include:
- environmental monitoring and exposure assessor
- environmental or sustainability consultant
- geologist
- geophysicist
- hydrogeologist
- mineral exploration geologist or project manager
- natural hazards assessment, mitigation and recovery specialist
- natural resource manager
- science teacher (K-12)
- water resources scientist
Possible career settings include:
- educational institutions
- environmental consulting firms
- environmental engineering firms
- environmental industry organizations
- federal, state and local government agencies
- geotechnical industry organizations
- museums
- nonprofit organizations
- petroleum industry companies
- small exploration companies and large mining companies
Graduates are also prepared for graduate school in numerous disciplines within geoscience, planetary science, biogeoscience, science education or science communication.
For more information, students can visit 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.
