BS Earth and Space Exploration in Astrophysics

If you’re passionate about uncovering the mysteries of the universe and want to work hands-on with the same technologies used by NASA scientists and engineers, Arizona State University’s BS in Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) at the Tempe campus is the perfect place to start your journey. You’ll develop practical skills and use advanced facilities and tools throughout your studies. The School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) provides access to specialised labs, observatories, and high-performance computing—all right on campus. You’ll also complete a capstone project, where you’ll work in a team to solve real scientific and engineering challenges.

Here’s how you’ll get real-world experience as an Astrophysics major at ASU:

• Space Instrumentation and Engineering Labs: Work in SESE’s state-of-the-art laboratories, designing and building hardware for space missions and astronomical research.

• Mars Space Flight Facility: Participate in research and data analysis using instruments and data from NASA Mars missions, right on campus.

• Capstone Project: In your senior year, join a team to translate scientific goals into engineering solutions—designing, building, and testing spaceflight hardware or astronomical instruments.

• Advanced Observatories: Use on-campus telescopes and remote observing facilities for laboratory courses and research projects, gaining direct experience in data collection and analysis.

• Computational Modelling and Programming: Take required courses in computer modelling and data analysis, using industry-standard software and digital tools for astrophysics research.

• Internship and Research Opportunities: Earn credit for internships (SES 484) or individualised research (SES 499) with faculty, NASA partners, or industry, with support from SESE advisors.

• Group Projects: Collaborate with classmates on experimental and engineering projects throughout your coursework, mirroring real-world scientific teamwork.

• Physics and Engineering Coursework: Complete rigorous, quantitative courses taught by both SESE and the Department of Physics, ensuring a strong foundation in both scientific and technical skills.

• Access to SESE Facilities: Benefit from dedicated research spaces, high-performance computing labs, and the ASU Meteorite Collection for hands-on learning.

• Academic and Career Advising: Work with SESE advisors to plan your path, find research opportunities, and prepare for graduate school or a career in space science.

Graduates of Arizona State University’s BS in Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) are ready for exciting careers as research scientists, space mission engineers, data analysts, and observatory technicians. You’ll gain a unique mix of astrophysics, planetary science, and engineering, opening doors to both industry and research roles.

Here’s how Arizona State University supports your future:

• Advising and research placement: The School of Earth and Space Exploration offers personalised academic advising, undergraduate research placements, and a capstone project where you’ll translate science goals into engineering solutions.

• Internships and partnerships: You’ll have access to internships and hands-on experience with ASU’s world-class research centres, including the NASA Space Grant program and partnerships with NASA, national observatories, and leading aerospace companies.

• Career services and work authorisation: ASU Career Services supports students with career fairs, resume workshops, and job placement resources, while the program’s STEM-OPT eligibility allows international students to extend U.S. work authorisation for up to 24 months after graduation.

• Accreditation and ranking: The program is regionally accredited and ASU is ranked among the top 50 public universities in the U.S., ensuring your degree is valued by employers and graduate schools worldwide.

• Career outcomes and salary potential: Graduates are prepared for roles in research, engineering, and education, with median salaries for physicists and astronomers ranging from $96,000 to $147,000 according to national data; ASU alumni work at NASA, national labs, and top tech firms.

• Curriculum and capstone: You’ll complete rigorous coursework in astrophysics, physics, engineering, and computer programming, and participate in a senior-year capstone project.

• Accelerated graduate pathways: The program offers accelerated bachelor’s/master’s pathways for high-achieving students who want to fast-track their graduate education.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Earth and Space Exploration (Astrophysics) at ASU, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in astrophysics, planetary science, engineering, or related fields—leading to advanced research, university teaching, or technical leadership roles at NASA, observatories, and global research institutions.