Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Online Bachelor of Science in Astronomical and Planetary Sciences is a comprehensive program that explores the wonders of the universe, from planets and solar systems to galaxies and beyond. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the science of the solar system and the universe, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in fields such as astronomy, astrophysics, and planetary science.

Program Details

• The program consists of 39 classes, with each class lasting 7.5-15 weeks.
• The total credit hours required for the program are 120.
• The program includes coursework in communication, mathematics, physical sciences, astronomy, planetary science, and engineering.
• Students will gain a greater understanding of the computational tools and techniques essential for conducting astronomy and planetary science research.

Skills and Knowledge

The program is designed to provide students with a range of skills and knowledge, including:

• Groundwork in mathematics and physical sciences
• Topical courses focused on diverse fields within astronomy and planetary science
• Exposure to the engineering and computational tools and techniques used to carry out research
• Skills in coding, communication, and problem-solving
• Ability to break down and tackle complex problems applying modern statistical data analysis techniques using computers

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program may pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Teaching
• Research
• Writing
• Government and aerospace sectors
• Observatories
• Planetariums
• Museums
• Career examples include:
  • Aerospace Engineer Technician
  • Astronomer
  • Computer Programmer
  • Data Analyst
  • Elementary Teacher
  • High School Teacher
  • Middle School Teacher
  • Production Assistant
  • Technical Writer

Faculty and Research

The School of Earth and Space Exploration is home to a diverse range of faculty members who are academic leaders in their respective fields. The faculty's expertise spans fields from astrobiology, astrophysics, and astronomy to geological and planetary science, systems design, and more. The school is involved in a range of research areas, including:

• Active space missions
• Meteorites
• Satellite launches
• NASA-certified flight instruments

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the program, students must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have completed at least 14 of the following courses:
  • Four years of math
  • Four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses)
  • Three years of lab sciences (one year each from biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences, or physics)
  • Two years of social sciences (including one year of American history)
  • Two years of the same second language
  • One year of fine arts or career and technical education
• Meet at least one of the following:
  • Top 25% in high school graduating class
  • 3.00 GPA in competency courses (4.00 = A)
  • ACT score of 22 for Arizona residents (24 nonresidents) or SAT Reasoning score of 1120 for Arizona residents (1180 nonresidents)

Tuition and Fees

The tuition and fees for the program can be estimated using the university's tuition calculator. The calculator takes into account the student's residency status, program, and number of credits. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help students cover the cost of tuition.

Courses

The program includes a range of courses, such as:

• AST 111: Introduction to Solar Systems Astronomy
• AST 112: Introduction to Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology
• AST 301: Physics of Astrophysics
• AST 321: Stellar and Planetary Astrophysics
• AST 322: Introduction to Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics
• SES 106: Habitable Worlds
• SES 350: Engineering Systems and Experimental Problem Solving
• SES 376: Communicating Astronomical and Planetary Sciences I

Additional Information

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in astronomical and planetary sciences, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in a range of fields. The program is taught by a diverse range of faculty members who are academic leaders in their respective fields, and includes a range of courses and research opportunities. The university offers a range of resources to support students, including financial aid, scholarships, and academic advising.