Online Bachelor of Science in Astronomical and Planetary Sciences – Astrophysics
Explore the science behind the universe, stars, galaxies and planetary systems in the online Bachelor of Science in astronomical and planetary sciences with a concentration in astrophysics from Arizona State University. In this program, you’ll gain a strong scientific foundation in math and physics to understand the fundamentals of astrophysics and ongoing advancements in the field. You’ll build quantitative problem-solving and data analysis skills that prepare you for technical careers and graduate study.
Quick facts
Next start date: 10/14/2026
Total classes: 23
Weeks per class: 7.5-15
Total credit hours: 120
What you’ll learn in this online astrophysics degree
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Astrophysics degree online courses
The curriculum blends advanced mathematics, calculus, physics, astronomy and planetary sciences courses to help you understand the universe through a quantitative lens. Courses also focus on the application of engineering and computational tools and techniques used in research.
Career paths with a bachelor’s in astrophysics
Upon graduation, you’ll have the technical skills and knowledge in astronomy and planetary science to move on to graduate school or launch a career in settings such as NASA, the aerospace industry, observatories, planetariums, science centers and educational institutions. You could pursue roles as an astronomer, data analyst, instrumentation specialist, science teacher or telescope operator.
Aerospace Engineer Technician
Astronomer
Computer Programmer
Data Analyst
Elementary Teacher
High School Teacher
Middle School Teacher
Production Assistant
Technical Writer
Explore astrophysics with nationally recognized space science leaders
Faculty in the School of Earth and Space Exploration are academic leaders in their respective fields. They focus on collaboration, research, innovation and teaching, and emphasize advancing scholarship, discovery, research and science. Our faculty's expertise spans fields from astrobiology, astrophysics and astronomy to geological and planetary science, systems design and more. Faculty highlights include:
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences Elected Member
- American Chemical Society Medalist
- American Geophysical Union Fellows
- American Astronomical Society Fellows
- Mineralogical Society of American Roebling Medalist
- National Academies of Sciences Lectureship
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Learn in a school shaping the future of space science
The School of Earth and Space Exploration focuses on exploring planet Earth and the universe beyond. We break boundaries by combining the studies of Earth and space science to answer today’s most pressing questions in science. Many researchers are experienced principal investigators or co-investigators on orbiters and rovers studying Mars, the moon, asteroids and Jupiter’s moon Europa. Other researchers are studying distant galaxies, the Milky Way, the origins of life on Earth, engineering systems design and more to set the stage for a new era of exploration.
#1
in innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT
Top 10
best online bachelor’s programs
Top 10%
best global universities
25+
active space missions
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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