Astronomical and Planetary Sciences, BS


Explore humanity's place in the universe, from a near-Earth orbit to the edge of the observable universe. In the process of your scientific inquiry, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.

Program Description

The online BS program in astronomical and planetary sciences provides broad training in the scientific foundations required to understand and communicate the fundamentals of space exploration and ongoing advances in the field.

The degree program includes groundwork in mathematics and physical sciences, topical courses focused on diverse fields within astronomy and planetary science, and exposure to the engineering and computational tools and techniques used to carry out research.

In addition to 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.



Required Courses (Major Map)

Online Major Map

Major Map on-campus archive

What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: online
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • First Required Math Course: MAT 210 - Brief Calculus
  • Math Intensity: Moderate program math intensity moderate

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search 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 help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.



Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.





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Affording College

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Career Outlook

Graduates pursue careers in fields that value the quantitative, technical skills taught as part of an astronomy education. These include K-12 STEM teaching positions, science and technology journalism and writing careers, and technical careers involving statistical data analysis or computer programming or technical positions supporting space and research industry and policy.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Computer Programmer


  • Growth: -11.2%
  • Median Salary*: $97,800

Data Analyst


  • Growth: -1.7%
  • Median Salary*: $48,880

Elementary Teacher


  • Growth: 0.7%
  • Median Salary*: $61,690
  Bright Outlook

High School Teacher


  • Growth: 1.0%
  • Median Salary*: $62,360

Middle School Teacher


  • Growth: 0.8%
  • Median Salary*: $61,810

News Reporter


  • Growth: -3.3%
  • Median Salary*: $55,960

Production Assistant


  • Growth: 4.3%
  • Median Salary*: $65,000

Technical Writer


  • Growth: 6.9%
  • Median Salary*: $79,960

Web Developer


  • Growth: 17.0%
  • Median Salary*: $78,580
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu



Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly.