Online Bachelor of Science in Astronomical and Planetary Sciences
Study the stars in Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in astronomical and planetary sciences program. In this online astronomy degree, you’ll explore planets, solar systems and galaxies to understand space exploration and ongoing advances in the field.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/19/2025
Total classes: 39
Weeks per class: 7.5-15
Total credit hours: 120
The skills you’ll develop in this online astronomy degree
This program is the world’s first online accredited undergraduate astronomy degree. With custom-built classes and innovative coursework, this program makes learning astronomy online convenient, compelling and tailored to your learning needs.
The curriculum includes:
- Groundwork in mathematics and physical sciences.
- Topical courses focused on diverse fields within astronomy and planetary science.
- Exposure to the engineering and computational tools and techniques used to carry out research.
As a student in this program, you’ll gain skills in coding, communication and problem solving, including how to break down and tackle complex problems applying modern statistical data analysis techniques using computers.
Who’s this program a good fit for?
This program is ideal for students interested in obtaining a quantitative understanding of the science of the solar system and beyond. In this math-intensive program, an interest in math will help set you up for success and be prepared to utilize it throughout all upper-division courses. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with broad training in the scientific foundations and fundamentals of space exploration, including ongoing advancements in the field.
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.”
Why earn an astronomy degree?
Online astronomy courses
In this program, you’ll complete courses in communication, mathematics, physical sciences, astronomy, planetary science and engineering. You’ll also gain a greater understanding of the computational tools and techniques essential for conducting astronomy and planetary science research.
Jobs you could get with a bachelor’s in astronomy
As a graduate with an astronomy bachelor’s degree, you may find opportunities in a variety of fields, including teaching, research, writing and the government and aerospace sectors. You may also pursue careers within observatories, planetariums and museums. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Aerospace Engineer Technician
Astronomer
Computer Programmer
Data Analyst
Elementary Teacher
High School Teacher
Middle School Teacher
Production Assistant
Technical Writer
Explore space with experts in astronomy and planetary studies
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.
Explore space with experts in astronomy and planetary studies
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.
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.
Study with a school that’s out of this world
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 the Milky Way, the origins of life on Earth, engineering systems design and more to set the stage for a new era of exploration.
25+
active space missions
40,000
individual meteorites, the largest university collection
1
satellite launched into space
1 of 5
schools capable of building NASA-certified flight instruments for space
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.
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.
