Bachelor of Science
Planetary Geoscience
Designed in partnership with the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, The Planetary Geosciences major will prepare students for science and industry careers in the rapidly expanding field of planetary science and exploration (including Earth and its Moon, the planets, their satellites, and myriad minor bodies in the solar system; as well as exoplanetary systems).
About the Program
Students will take courses from faculty in two internationally recognized, top-rated departments—Planetary Science and Geosciences—with opportunities for transdisciplinary mentorship and advisement.
The curriculum will build on a foundation of mathematics, physics and chemistry; it will comprise fundamental training in Earth materials, structures, and processes; and it will provide advanced study of the physical and chemical evolution of the Solar System and advanced course options focused on particular planetary bodies and planetary topics. The curriculum will culminate in a capstone research experience and advanced fieldwork in relevant Earth settings.
Course Requirements
More in depth requirements can be found in the UArizona Program Catalog.
4-Year Planning Guide
Sample 4-Year Plan
*NOTE: This is meant to be used as a guide. Plan of Study will vary from student to student.
Career Opportunities
A Planetary geoscience degree opens up a wide array of potential career paths including:
- Planetary scientist at a NASA center or other research institute
- Academic careers in colleges and universities
- Careers in the rapidly growing private space sector
- Science policy
- Science education and journalism
- Traditional geoscience career paths in industry and academia
- Any career relying on quantitative skills and problem solving
Interested in the PTGS Major?
If you are interested in pursuing the undergraduate major in Planetary Geoscience please contact us for more information:
PTGS Co-directors:
Pete Decelles (decelles@arizona.edu
Paul Kapp (pkapp@arizona.edu)
Jeff Andrews-Hanna (jcahanna@arizona.edu)
PTGS Academic Advisor:
Jess Kapp (jkapp@arizona.edu)
Amy Brenton (apbrenton@arizona.edu)
Curious about all of the undergraduate classes we have to offer? See below.