Natural Science (Earth and Space Sciences), MNS
Field Work, Geological sciences, Landforms, Rocks, approved for STEM-OPT extension, geology, minerals, natural
With this program's tailored approach, you'll combine two or more areas of specialization and participate in projects that investigate the great unknowns of Earth and our solar system. This degree is designed for students like you who wish to enhance their professional portfolio.
The Master of Natural Science program with a concentration in Earth and space sciences is designed to meet the needs of professionals seeking a graduate-level degree. It is especially suited for individuals who desire professional training rather than research training.
The program must be transdisciplinary; students are expected to emphasize coursework in two or more areas of specialization. The program offers the opportunity for graduate training in the natural sciences (i.e., biological sciences, mathematics and physical sciences) and cognate areas. The program's flexible design allows students to create individualized professional graduate programs tailored to their backgrounds and goals.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (SES 593)
Required Core (1 credit hour)
SES 502 Exploring SESE Research (1)
Other Requirements (19 credit hours)
SES 501 SESE Colloquium (1)
GLG or SES courses (18)
Electives or Research (4 credit hours)
Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
SES 593 Applied Project (6)
Additional Curriculum Information
Other Requirements coursework consists of SES 501 and 18 credit hours of GLG or SES graduate-level courses. Exceptions and substitutions may be allowed with approval of the academic unit.
The supervisory committee is chosen by the student in conjunction with the advisor. The composition of the supervisory committee must reflect the transdisciplinary nature of the program. The student develops a suitable applied project with the approval of the supervisory committee.
Students must submit a plan of study after conferring with the supervisory committee. While a minimum of 30 credit hours is required for the degree, more credit hours may be required by the supervisory committee, depending on the student's background and the nature of the proposed program.
In some cases, undergraduate courses may be required to remove deficiencies.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- statement of purpose
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 12/01 | Priority |
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 10/01 | Priority |
Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:
- Apply advanced scientific concepts to investigate processes shaping the interior and surface of the Earth and other planetary bodies.
- Apply advanced analytical, modeling, and/or field-based methods to investigate Earth and space science problems.
- Conduct independent research that demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate geological and/or planetary data.
Professionals with expertise in Earth and space sciences are in high demand across sectors and industries, including remote sensing, natural resource management, data science, environmental consulting, hazard and risk assessment, geophysics and planetary science. Skills in the measurement and analysis of data related to the physics, chemistry and structures of earthly and planetary systems are valuable to businesses and institutions that rely on data-driven strategies to interact with the planet and explore beyond Earth.
Career examples include:
- geologist
- high school teacher
- science communication expert
- science writer and science journalist
School of Earth and Space Exploration
|
ISTB4 795
sese-prospectivegrads@asu.edu
480-965-5081
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
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. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. 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.
