Masters Program in Planetary Geology Field
I am heading into my junior year at ASU pursuing a B.S. in Astronomical and Planetary Sciences. I am a veteran using VR&E (Chapter 33), and my counselor only approved me through a Master’s degree.
(While a PhD is often standard for this field, my goal after graduating is to enter the workforce to gain solid field and research experience before deciding if I want to commit to a doctorate later down the line).
I am looking for a Master’s program that will bridge my current background with the geology side of planetary sciences.
Career wise, I’m aiming for planetary geology/analogs, field research, and astrobiology. Right now, I'm highly drawn to arctic and volcanology-based research, though I'm still early in my coursework and research experience.
Programs I am considering:
- ASU: M.S. in Geological Sciences
- Purdue University: M.S. in Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (focusing on Planetary Science or Geology & Geophysics)
- University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa: M.S. in Earth and Planetary Sciences
I would love any feedback on these specific programs, especially regarding their industry/agency connections, terminal Master's placement, or analog field opportunities. I'd also welcome suggestions for other universities with strong planetary geology pipelines that set graduates up for workforce entry. Thanks in advance!