Earth and Space Exploration, BS


As an earth and space exploration major, you learn about our planet, solar system and universe by combining science, engineering and education. You could be involved in building space-flight hardware; making astronomical observations; discovering new microbes; exploring volcanoes, oceans and glaciers; investigating Earth-climate interactions; and setting the stage for a new era of exploration.

Program Description

The BS program in earth and space exploration offers students an integrated education across earth sciences, planetary sciences, astrophysics and engineering. The degree program incorporates a learning community that includes science and engineering students, a yearlong collaborative capstone senior exploration project and strong quantitative preparation.

This strong foundation in geosciences, astrophysics and exploration engineering prepares students for key roles in earth resources and exploration, environmental and geologic engineering, space research and industry, and water and environmental use policy.

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)

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: Tempe campus
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • First Required Math Course: MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
  • Math Intensity: Substantial program math intensity substantial

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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Career Outlook

The earth and space exploration major addresses critical future shortfalls in the national and regional training of the next generation of geoscientists and aerospace engineers.

Arizona has an expanding space industry with major new investments and is prepared to engage new technologies to monitor and understand environmental issues in Arizona, the Southwest and throughout the world.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration have the tools, knowledge and understanding to address key problems of a global nature, whether they are working in the private or public sector.

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:

Aerospace Engineer


  • Growth: 2.8%
  • Median Salary*: $118,610
Green Occupation

Astronomer


  • Growth: 2.4%
  • Median Salary*: $119,730

Geologist


  • Growth: 4.9%
  • Median Salary*: $93,580
Green Occupation   Bright Outlook

Geology Professor


  • Growth: 1.9%
  • Median Salary*: $94,520

Health Sciences Manager


  • Growth: 4.8%
  • Median Salary*: $137,940
Green Occupation   Bright Outlook

High School Teacher


  • Growth: 3.8%
  • Median Salary*: $62,870

Hydrogeologist


  • Growth: 4.8%
  • Median Salary*: $137,940
Green Occupation   Bright Outlook

Hydrologist


  • Growth: 5.3%
  • Median Salary*: $84,040
Green Occupation   Bright Outlook

Middle School Teacher


  • Growth: 3.6%
  • Median Salary*: $60,810

Physics Professor


  • Growth: 4.4%
  • Median Salary*: $90,400

* 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





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.