Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) ,BS
Earth Science, Earth and Space Sciences, Exploration, NASA, Planets, Space, approved for STEM-OPT extension, astronomy, cosmology, stars, universe
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.
The Bachelor of Science program in Earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics offers students a fundamental grounding in astronomy and astrophysics, with exposure to the related fields of geology, planetary science and engineering.
Students develop a background in theoretical modeling and observational techniques of galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. They engage in rigorous coursework in engineering and computer programming, and they learn to think critically about scientific problems. Through a capstone project, students gain valuable experience in translating science drivers into engineering solutions.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
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
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 270 - Calc w/Analytic Geometry I
- Math
intensity: Substantial
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.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year
| Transfer
| International
| Readmission
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
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:
- 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.
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.
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 the career opportunities page on the School of Earth and Space Exploration website.
Example job titles and salaries listed below 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.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
6.1%
|
$126,880
|
|
|
8.3%
|
$74,410
|
|
|
4.6%
|
$128,330
|
|
|
35.2%
|
$103,500
|
|
|
9.3%
|
$103,550
|
|
|
4.1%
|
$159,920
|
|
|
3.6%
|
$97,770
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
4.7%
|
$142,850
|
|
|
6.9%
|
$79,960
|
School of Earth and Space Exploration
|
ISTB4 795
sese-advising@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.
