Earth and Space Exploration (Geological Sciences), BS
Program Description
Geological science is the study of earth and other planets with an emphasis on the processes that have shaped them since the origin of the solar system. Students explore topics such as the co-evolution of life, oceans, atmosphere and the earth's climate system, and the record of that evolution encoded in rocks, soil, ice and isotopes.
The BS program in earth and space exploration with a concentration in geological sciences educates students in the fundamentals of geological sciences, providing a solid background in chemistry, mathematics and physics as well as mineralogy, structural geology, field geology and a variety of geologic subdisciplines.
Students gain a strong understanding of field methods as well as modern computing, remote sensing and instrumentation to effectively study the natural environment and earth's resources. Graduates of the program can apply their knowledge for the benefit of Arizona, the nation and society in general.
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)
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
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
Graduates in geological sciences are prepared for employment in a variety of geoscience-related fields and for continued studies toward higher educational degrees. The geological science degree program provides broad training in the geosciences and supporting sciences, opening up diverse opportunities for employment in industry, government, education and other organizations. Geological science graduates understand how to approach diverse societal issues, such as water resources, mineral resources, geologic hazards, engineering geology and government regulations.
Sample careers include:
- environmental geologist
- geological engineer
- geologist
- government geologist
- mineral exploration geologist
- petroleum geologist
- science policy intern
- science writer
- water resources scientist
Sample career settings include:
- environmental industry
- federal, state, and local government agencies
- geotechnical industry
- museums
- petroleum industry
- publishers
- small exploration companies and large mining companies
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:
Environmental Analyst
- Growth: 5.1%
- Median Salary*: $64,020
Forester
- Growth: 3.8%
- Median Salary*: $63,980
Geologist
- Growth: 4.9%
- Median Salary*: $93,580
Geology Professor
- Growth: 1.9%
- Median Salary*: $94,520
Hydrogeologist
- Growth: 4.8%
- Median Salary*: $137,940
Hydrologist
- Growth: 5.3%
- Median Salary*: $84,040
Park Ranger
- Growth: 5.1%
- Median Salary*: $64,020
* 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.