Planetary Astronomy and Science
A program that focuses on the scientific study of planets, small objects, and related gravitational systems. Includes instruction in the structure and composition of planetary surfaces and interiors, planetary atmospheres, satellites, orbital mechanics, asteroids and comets, solar system evolution and dynamics, planetary evolution, gravitational physics, and radiation physics.
- Schools offering
- 10
- Annual completions
- 37
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $74k
About this major
A program that focuses on the scientific study of planets, small objects, and related gravitational systems. Includes instruction in the structure and composition of planetary surfaces and interiors, planetary atmospheres, satellites, orbital mechanics, asteroids and comets, solar system evolution and dynamics, planetary evolution, gravitational physics, and radiation physics.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural sciences managers | $161k | +3.7% | Bachelor's degree |
| Atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary | $101k | +2.6% | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Astronomers | $132k | +2.2% | Doctoral or professional degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$74k
Top colleges for Planetary Astronomy and Science
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University Digital Immersion | Scottsdale, AZ | 0 | 26 | 26 |
| Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | 0 | 6 | 6 |
| University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | 0 | 3 | 3 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne, FL | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | Columbus, OH | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Stonehill College | Easton, MA | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Washington University in St Louis | St. Louis, MO | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Marietta College | Marietta, OH | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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