Planetary Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Planetary Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin offers students a comprehensive education in the study of planets, moons, meteorites, and other celestial bodies within our solar system and beyond. This interdisciplinary program integrates principles from astronomy, geology, physics, and atmospheric science to provide students with a deep understanding of planetary processes and planetary system formation. Students enrolled in this program will have the opportunity to engage in rigorous coursework that covers planetary geology, planetary atmospheres, solar system dynamics, planetary exploration, and remote sensing techniques. The curriculum is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including data analysis, laboratory research, and remote sensing technologies, preparing graduates for careers in planetary science research, space exploration, or further advanced studies. The program emphasizes active participation in research projects, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge experiments and planetary missions, fostering a hands-on learning environment. Students can also benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and access to observational data, scientific databases, and technological tools essential for planetary investigation. With a strong foundation in scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving, graduates of this program are well-prepared to contribute to our understanding of planetary systems, participate in space missions, and pursue careers in academia, government agencies, or industry sectors related to space science and exploration. The University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Astronomy offers a vibrant academic community with opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring students graduate with a broad perspective and the skills necessary for the rapidly evolving field of planetary sciences.

Graduate courses in the Planetary theme area focus on understanding the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape planetary surfaces, atmospheres, and interiors. A wide variety of courses across several departments are available to graduate students interested in perusing research and training in this multidisciplinary field. No fixed curriculum is required for planetary graduate students, allowing students to work with their advisors to assemble an individualized program of courses to best suit their needs. Courses listed below are offered through the Department of Geological Sciences (GEO), the Department of Astronomy (AST), Chemistry (CH), and Aerospace Engineering (ASE). Not all courses are offered every term. An updated list of GEO courses being offered during Fall 2013 is listed at the end of this page.

Graduate Courses

• GEO 391 Meteoritics and Early Solar System Processes
• GEO 391 Planetary geology and geophysics
• GEO S391 Field Methods in Planetary Geology
• GEO 380G Construction and Interpretation of 3-D Stratigraphy
• GEO 384C Seismology I
• GEO 380C Advanced Structural Geology
• GEO 380N Sequence Stratigraphy
• GEO 381E Brittle Structure
• GEO 381G Geomicrobiology
• GEO 380T Geoclimatology
• GEO 382G Fluid Physics for Geologists
• GEO 383 Clastic Depositional Systems
• GEO 383D Numerical Methods I: Computational Methods in Geological Sciences
• GEO 383G Geochemistry of Sedimentary Rocks
• GEO 383P Potential Field Applications in Geophysics
• GEO 384D Physics of Earth
• GEO 384M Inverse Theory
• GEO 384F Computational Methods for Geophysics
• GEO 384R Geophysical Time Series Analysis
• GEO 386G GIS and GPS Applications in Earth Sciences
• GEO 385Q Mathematical Methods in Geophysics
• GEO 387D Climate Dynamics
• GEO 387F Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans
• GEO 387H Physical Climatology
• GEO 389P Digital Methods in Morphology
• GEO 390M Thermodynamics of Geologic Processes
• GEO 191 Proposal Writing
• GEO 291 Geomorphology/Glaciology Seminar
• GEO 391 Essentials of Flow in Porous Media
• GEO 391 Field Stratigraphy: Guadalupe Mountains
• GEO 391 Hydrogeophysics
• GEO 391 Morphodynamics
• GEO 391Q Topics in Quarternary Geology 
• AST 364 Solar System Astronomy
• AST 380E Radiative Processes and Radiative Transfer
• AST 381 Planetary Astrophysics
• AST309L The Search for Extraterrestrial Life and Intelligence
• AST 383 Astroseismology
• AST 392J Astronomical Instrumentation 
• CH391L Astrobiology for Chemists & Biochemists
• CH391L Biochemistry and Astrobiology 
• ASE 382Q Fluid Mechanics.
• ASE 387P Flight Mechanics, Guidance, Navigation, and Control.
• ASE 388P Celestial Mechanics.
• ASE 389P Satellite Applications. 

Requirements

If you miss the December 1 deadline but meet the January 1 deadline you will still be considered for other forms of financial support.  Any applications completed after the January 1 deadline will only be considered on a space-available basis.

All items are to be submitted electronically, and you are strongly encouraged to complete the online application well in advance of the actual deadline.  Items such as the statement of purpose and letters of recommendation will have instructions in the online application.

NOTE: Do NOT submit any paper documents to GIAC or to the department.  They will not be accepted and could cause your application to be delayed.

If you feel compelled to submit items such as a CV, abstract, or other supporting information please contact faculty members or research scientists with whom you wish to work.  They will let you know if they want these documents.  Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact members of the Department of Geological Sciences Graduate Studies Committee in the field of interest, as all students are admitted to the graduate program on the recommendation of one or more members of the GSC.

The procedures may vary slightly for non-US citizens or for former UT students.  See the GIAC website for full information. Applicants to our graduate program are expected to have completed a minimum of two college-level courses in calculus and 4 courses completed in at least 2 of the following areas:  physics, chemistry, biology and computer science.  All of these courses must have received a C or better.  Additional courses in geological sciences, including field training appropriate for the subject of interest, depend on the particular area within the geosciences that a student wishes to study.  Specific programs may require additional prerequisite coursework. Any deficiencies in these areas must be addressed early in a student’s program. Other areas of study that are identified by a student’s mentor and examining committee as deficient should also be addressed early in a student’s program.

Scholarships

On average, Jackson School graduate students admitted with support receive some of the best overall packages in the country. In 2011-12, starting salaries for TAs and RAs were approximately $1,950 a month. Full fellowships were $36,000 for a 12-month period and are now eligible for the same UT Austin benefits package as any TA or RA. JSG support, in addition to being generous, is guaranteed (subject to requirements) and includes outstanding health benefits. Our students further benefit from living in Austin, a comparatively affordable U.S. city.

Standard offers of admission guarantee support for established durations, subject to satisfactory work performance and progress toward a graduate degree.

Durations of guaranteed institutional support:

• Ph.D. Program: 10 semesters (fall and spring).

Guaranteed support takes the forms of fellowships, teaching assistantships (TAs), and graduate research assistantships (GRAs). Students pursuing the M.A. degree are not eligible for this support.

The Jackson School also provides:

• Professional development support:
  • $3,000 for all Ph.D. students.

The University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive program in Planetary Sciences designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary understanding of planetary systems, including the formation, evolution, and current state of planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and other celestial bodies. The program combines coursework in geology, astronomy, physics, and chemistry to equip students with a holistic perspective on planetary processes. Students have access to advanced laboratory facilities, remote sensing data, and computer modeling tools to conduct research and develop practical skills. The curriculum includes core courses such as planetary geology, planetary atmospheres, celestial mechanics, and planetary atmospheres, along with elective options that allow specialization in areas like astrobiology, planetary remote sensing, and astrophysics.

Undergraduate students often participate in research projects, internships, and fieldwork to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students engage in more in-depth research, often contributing to ongoing missions, data analysis, and publication in scientific journals. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to work alongside faculty and researchers involved in NASA missions and other space agencies. The university's strong ties with space science organizations provide students with internship opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge research. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in planetary research, space agencies, observatories, or advanced study in related fields. The program is supported by faculty members who are recognized experts in planetary science, ensuring a high standard of education and research excellence. Overall, the University of Texas at Austin's Planetary Sciences program offers a rigorous, dynamic academic environment for students passionate about exploring the wonders of our solar system and beyond.