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Natural Science (Earth and Space Sciences), MNS

Natural Science (Earth and Space Sciences), MNS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Natural Science (Earth and Space Sciences), MNS

Field Work, Geological sciences, Landforms, Rocks, approved for STEM-OPT extension, geology, minerals, natural

With this program's tailored approach, you combine two or more areas of specialization and participate in projects that investigate the great unknowns of Earth and our solar system. This degree is designed for students like you who wish to enhance their professional portfolio.

Program description
Degree awarded: MNS  Natural Science (Earth and Space Sciences)

The MNS in natural science with a concentration in Earth and space sciences is designed to meet the needs of professionals seeking a graduate-level degree and is especially suited for individuals who desire professional training rather than research training.

The program must be transdisciplinary; students are expected to emphasize coursework in two or more areas of specialization. The program offers the opportunity for graduate training in the natural sciences (i.e., biological sciences, mathematics and physical sciences) and cognate areas. Because it is flexible by design, the program also offers the opportunity for individualized professional graduate programs depending upon the backgrounds and goals of the students.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Degree requirements

30 credit hours including the required applied project course (SES 593)

Required Core (1 credit hour)
SES 502 Exploring SESE Research (1)

Other Requirements (19 credit hours)
SES 501 SESE Colloquium (1)
GLG or SES courses (18)

Electives or Research (4 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
SES 593 Applied Project (6)

Additional Curriculum Information
Other Requirements coursework includes SES 501 and 18 credit hours of GLG or SES graduate-level courses. Exceptions and substitutions may be allowed with approval of the academic unit.

The supervisory committee is chosen by the student in conjunction with the advisor. The composition of the supervisory committee must reflect the transdisciplinary nature of the program. The student develops a suitable applied project with the approval of the supervisory committee.

Students must submit a plan of study after conferring with the supervisory committee. While a minimum of 30 credit hours is required for the degree, more credit hours may be required by the supervisory committee, depending upon the background of the student and the nature of the proposed program.

In some cases, undergraduate courses may be required to remove deficiencies.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. statement of purpose
  4. three letters of recommendation
  5. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 12/01Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 10/01Priority
Career opportunities

Professionals with expertise in Earth and space sciences are in high demand across sectors and industries, including remote sensing, natural resource management, data science, environmental consulting, hazard and risk assessment, geophysics and planetary science. Skills in the measurement and analysis of data related to the physics, chemistry and structures of earthly and planetary systems are valuable to businesses and institutions relying on data-driven strategies to interact with the planet and explore beyond the Earth.

Career examples include:

  • geologist
  • high school teacher
  • science communication expert
  • science writer and science journalist
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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