Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics), BS
Program Description
Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) degree description
The Bachelor of Science program in Earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics offers you a fundamental grounding in astronomy and astrophysics, with exposure to the related fields of geology, planetary science and engineering.
You develop a background in theoretical modeling and observational techniques of galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. You engage in rigorous coursework in engineering and computer programming, and you learn to think critically about scientific problems. Through a capstone project, you gain valuable experience in translating science drivers into engineering solutions.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, if you are interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you can visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply advanced math and physics concepts to solve problems in astronomy and astrophysics.
- Effectively apply crucial skills for employment including communication, creative and critical thinking, inquiry and analysis, and problem solving.
- Solve quantitative problems and test hypotheses with astronomical data utilizing modern computing methods.
- Function effectively in a team-based interdisciplinary research environment to formulate solutions for and solve complex scientific and technological problems.
- Location:
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: No
- Math Intensity: Substantial
- Initial Math Course: MAT 270 - Calc w/Analytic Geometry I
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.
Flexible Degree Options
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an
accelerated bachelor's and master's degree
with:
Exploration Systems Design (Instrumentation)
Exploration Systems Design (Instrumentation) Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Exploration Systems Design
Exploration Systems Design Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Exploration Systems Design (Sensor Networks)
Exploration Systems Design (Sensor Networks) Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Astrophysics and Astronomy
Astrophysics and Astronomy Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering)
Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering) Program Website | Locations: TEMPE
Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.
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Career Outlook
Careers this astrophysics concentration prepares you for
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 thecareer opportunities page on the School of Earth and Space Exploration website.
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 Engineers
- Growth: 8.3%
- Median Salary*: $134,960.00
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Growth: 11.9%
- Median Salary*: $82,890.00
Astronomers
- Growth: 7.8%
- Median Salary*: $128,820.00
Data Scientists
- Growth: 34.6%
- Median Salary*: $120,230.00
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
- Growth: 7.8%
- Median Salary*: $109,270.00
Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Growth: 5.5%
- Median Salary*: $171,270.00
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
- Growth: 2.4%
- Median Salary*: $103,170.00
Natural Sciences Managers
- Growth: 8.2%
- Median Salary*: $167,220.00
Physicists
- Growth: 7.2%
- Median Salary*: $172,250.00
Technical Writers
- Growth: 0.8%
- Median Salary*: $90,390.00
* 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 Experience
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.
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. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- [email protected]
- 480/965-5081