Program Description
The BS program in earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics is designed to offer students a fundamental grounding in astronomy and astrophysics, with exposure to the related fields of geology, planetary science and engineering.
Students of the astrophysics major develop a background in theoretical modeling and observational techniques of galactic and stellar astronomy, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. They learn to think critically about scientific problems by reducing the complexity to more tractable components.
The rigorous and quantitative coursework includes a combination of physics courses taught in the ASU School of Earth and Space Exploration and the Department of Physics. The tools of astronomical discovery are increasingly dependent on technological advances, and students are exposed to engineering principles and computer programming. Through the capstone project in the senior year, students gain valuable experience in translating science drivers into engineering solutions.
Students currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (astrophysics) may not pursue a concurrent degree with the BA in earth and environmental studies, the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration, the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (astrobiology and biogesciences), the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (exploration systems design), or the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (geological sciences) due to the high level of overlap in curriculum. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.
