Earth and Space Exploration (Geological and Planetary Sciences), BS
Program Description
Degree description
The Bachelor of Science program in Earth and space exploration with an emphasis in geological and planetary sciences uncovers the processes that have shaped Earth and other planets since the origin of the solar system. You explore the coevolution of Earth's life, oceans, atmosphere and climate system and how their evolution is recorded in rocks, soil, ice and isotopes.
You learn traditional and modern field methods, data analysis and more to effectively study the natural environment. This knowledge empowers you to work for the benefit of local, national and global communities. You also have the opportunity to study the potential for extraterrestrial life and the possibilities for the colonization of space.
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 are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Learning Outcomes
- Interpret geologic history from field and/or remote sensing data.
- Solve problems in the Earth and planetary sciences using their understanding of the formation, structure and composition of the Earth and planets.
- Synthesize scientific data in the context of geologic material properties, processes, and time.
- Effectively apply crucial skills for employment including communication, creative and critical thinking, inquiry and analysis, and problem solving.
- Location:
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: No
- Math Intensity: Substantial
- Initial Math Course: MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers 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 geological and planetary sciences concentration prepares you for
Graduates are well prepared for a wide variety of careers in growing fields such as environmental geology, hydrogeology, geographical information systems analysis, critical mineral exploration, environmental consulting and natural resource management.
Career opportunities include:
- environmental monitoring and exposure assessor
- environmental or sustainability consultant
- geologist
- geophysicist
- hydrogeologist
- mineral exploration geologist or project manager
- natural hazards assessment, mitigation and recovery specialist
- natural resource manager
- science teacher (K-12)
- water resources scientist
Possible career settings include:
- educational institutions
- environmental consulting firms
- environmental engineering firms
- environmental industry organizations
- federal, state and local government agencies
- geotechnical industry organizations
- museums
- nonprofit organizations
- petroleum industry companies
- small exploration companies and large mining companies
Graduates are also prepared for graduate school in numerous disciplines within geoscience, planetary science, biogeoscience, science education or science communication.
For more information, students can visit 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:
Conservation Scientists
- Growth: 5.3%
- Median Salary*: $73,010.00
Foresters
- Growth: 2.2%
- Median Salary*: $76,400.00
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
- Growth: 5.1%
- Median Salary*: $101,920.00
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
- Growth: 2.4%
- Median Salary*: $103,170.00
Water Resource Specialists
- Growth: 8.2%
- Median Salary*: $167,220.00
Hydrologists
- Growth: 1.5%
- Median Salary*: $96,600.00
Park Naturalists
- Growth: 5.3%
- Median Salary*: $73,010.00
* 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
With more than 300 programs available, Global Education enables students in the geological and planetary sciences concentration to gain hands-on experience in a variety of programs all over the world.
Graduates with heightened cultural competency, leadership and critical thinking skills acquired through study abroad may stand out in a competitive field.
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