B.S. in Planetary Geoscience

Entry Requirements for International Students

1. Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates of the University of Arizona's B.S. in Planetary Geoscience program are well-positioned for exciting and impactful career prospects in the field of planetary exploration, research, and geoscience. This interdisciplinary program equips students with a unique skill set that combines geological expertise with planetary science, preparing them for a range of fulfilling roles. The B.S. in Planetary Geoscience at the University of Arizona opens up diverse and dynamic career pathways for graduates interested in exploring the geological mysteries of planets and celestial bodies. Whether in research, space missions, education, or the private sector, graduates emerge with the expertise to make significant contributions to the evolving field of planetary geoscience.

1. Planetary Geologist: Graduates can pursue careers as planetary geologists, conducting research on the geology of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies. They may work for space agencies, research institutions, or private companies, analyzing planetary data, interpreting geological features, and contributing to our understanding of the solar system's geological evolution.

2. Astrobiologist: With a focus on the identification of geological signatures of past or present life on other planets, graduates may choose to specialize in astrobiology. They contribute to the search for extraterrestrial life by studying the geology of planetary environments where life could potentially exist, such as Mars or icy moons.

3. Remote Sensing Specialist: Graduates can become experts in remote sensing, using data from orbiters and rovers to analyze planetary surfaces. They may work with space missions, interpreting remote sensing data to map geological features, study surface compositions, and contribute to the planning of future exploration missions.

4. Space Mission Analyst: With a strong background in planetary geoscience, graduates may work as space mission analysts, supporting the planning and execution of space missions. They collaborate with mission teams, analyze data returned from spacecraft, and contribute to the success of missions exploring planets, moons, and asteroids.

5. Educator and Outreach Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers in education and public outreach, sharing their knowledge of planetary geoscience with students and the general public. They may work in science museums, planetariums, or educational institutions, engaging in science communication and inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.

6. Research Scientist: Graduates are well-suited for roles as research scientists in academic institutions or research organizations. They may focus on a variety of planetary geoscience topics, including surface processes, impact cratering, or the geological history of specific planets or moons, contributing to the advancement of planetary science.

7. GIS Specialist for Planetary Mapping: Graduates can become Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists, applying their knowledge to map and analyze planetary surfaces. They may work with space agencies or research institutions, creating detailed maps that aid in the understanding of geological features and support mission planning.

8. Private Sector Opportunities: Graduates may find opportunities in the private sector, working for companies involved in space exploration, satellite technology, or aerospace industries. Their expertise in planetary geoscience can be applied to various projects, from resource exploration to environmental monitoring.

9. Government Agencies: Graduates may pursue careers with government agencies such as NASA, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), or the United States Geological Survey (USGS). They can contribute to planetary exploration missions, Earth observation programs, or the analysis of planetary data for scientific and strategic purposes.