The School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) offers both M.S. and Ph.D. degree programs in geological sciences and astrophysics. The degree requirements in each program strongly emphasize unique research. The extensive research topics available within SESE allow for flexibility in each degree in order to meet the interests and needs of individual students.

Degree Programs

• MS in Astrophysics
• PhD in Astrophysics
• MS in Geological Sciences
• PhD in Geological Sciences

Students may wish to look at the graduate programs offered by the physics department due to the integrated nature of cosmology, astronomy, and physics.

Timeline for Graduate Study

Most students begin their graduate studies in the fall, but we will accept students in the spring semester pending special circumstances. A typical program requires at least two years of work for the M.S. degree and at least four years of work for the Ph.D. The M.S. degree is not a prerequisite for the Ph.D. program.

Coursework

Students in the M.S. and Ph.D. programs take a minimum of 20 and 25 credit hours of formal coursework, respectively. The coursework plan of each student can vary. Students work with their faculty advisor(s) to tailor coursework plans to their research needs. First year students in both programs typically enroll in 9-12 credit hours of coursework in their first semester at ASU. All SESE students are required to enroll in GLG 591: Faculty Research Seminar in their first semester. Students must also take GLG500: SESE colloquium at some point during their program.