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.
What you can do with a bachelor’s in astronomy
Upon completing this program, you can pursue careers in fields that value scientific knowledge. These types of careers involve the use of modern statistical data analysis techniques. You may also find jobs within K-12 STEM teaching, writing and journalism, science policy or statistical data analysis and computer programming.
Additionally, because this astronomy degree focuses on critical thinking and innovative problem-solving, it may prepare you for law school or other graduate school opportunities related to this skill set. However, if you plan to apply to a graduate program in astronomy or astrophysics, or pursue a path as a university professor or professional astronomer, you’ll need additional advanced coursework in mathematics and physics, as well as in-person research experience. To meet these graduate school requirements, you should consider pursuing the on-campus Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics program.
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.
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.
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.
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.
active space missions
individual meteorites, the largest university collection
satellite launched into space
schools capable of building NASA-certified flight instruments for space
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.”