BS Planetary Sciences

At Purdue, you’ll gain practical experience from your very first year, working side by side with faculty in small classes and research groups. The program blends coursework in planetary geology, atmospheres, physics, and spacecraft design with real-world research, digital analysis, and fieldwork. You’ll have access to some of the country’s best labs and research facilities, and you’ll be encouraged to dive into research projects early in your undergraduate career.

Here’s how you’ll get hands-on and build your expertise:

• Cutting-Edge EAPS Research Labs: Work in state-of-the-art laboratories focused on planetary geology, atmospheric science, geophysics, and remote sensing. These labs support research on meteorites, impact craters, planetary surfaces, and more.

• Undergraduate Research Opportunities: Engage in faculty-led research projects—often as early as your freshman year. Many students co-author scientific papers or present at national conferences. The EAPS department actively encourages and supports undergraduate research involvement.

• Geologic Remote Sensing & Spectroscopy: Use advanced digital tools and software for planetary data analysis, mapping, and spectroscopy in courses like “Geologic Remote Sensing and Spectroscopy” and “Computer-Aided Analysis for Geosciences”.

• Spacecraft Design and Operation: Take specialised courses in spacecraft design, where you’ll learn about mission planning, spacecraft systems, and operations—skills directly relevant to careers in space exploration.

• Field Trips and Fieldwork: Participate in field trips and hands-on fieldwork as part of your coursework, exploring geologic formations and planetary analogue sites.

• Small Class Sizes & Faculty Mentorship: Benefit from a low faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring personalised guidance and strong mentorship throughout your studies.

• Access to the EAPS Library and Departmental Resources: Use Purdue’s specialised science libraries and departmental resources for research, data analysis, and project support.

• Collaborative Group Projects: Work in teams on capstone projects and lab assignments, developing collaboration and communication skills essential for scientific careers.

Graduates of Purdue University’s BS in Planetary Sciences program step confidently into careers with NASA, space mission planning, environmental consulting, and research—roles like planetary scientist, spacecraft operations engineer, remote sensing analyst, and science educator are all within reach.

Here’s why Purdue is the perfect launchpad for your future:

• University Services: You’ll benefit from Purdue’s low faculty-to-student ratio in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS), ensuring plenty of one-on-one mentorship and support. Dedicated academic advisors help you map out your degree, connect you to undergraduate research, and guide you toward internships or co-ops with leading organisations.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Purdue science graduates are highly sought after, with over 90% placement rates in STEM fields and competitive starting salaries. The planetary sciences field is booming, with roles in government, private industry, and research labs offering strong earning potential and career growth.

• University–Industry Partnerships: Purdue’s connections with NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and top aerospace companies open doors for internships, research, and hands-on mission planning experience. Many students participate in real-world projects, from spacecraft design to planetary surface analysis.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: As a College of Science program at a world-renowned research university, your degree is recognised globally and provides a rigorous foundation in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, and geophysics.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate ready for exciting roles in planetary exploration, environmental regulation, science communication, or teaching. Many alumni also work in developing new technologies for space and Earth applications.

Further Academic Progression: If you’re inspired to keep exploring, Purdue’s BS in Planetary Sciences sets you up perfectly for graduate study—many students go on to master’s programs in planetary science, astronomy, geophysics, or related fields, often at Purdue or other top research institutions. This advanced training can lead to leadership roles in research, academia, or mission management.