Lunar and Planetary Laboratory | Undergraduate Program and Information

Fall 2009 \| Spring 2010 \| Undergraduate Minor \| Teaching \| Search
Planetary science includes the study of the eight planets in our Solar System, of course, but the intellectual boundaries of planetary science extend far beyond. Such fundamental questions as the origin and evolution of other solar systems and the existence of extraterrestrial life require a very broad perspective that ranges from the subatomic world of fundamental particles to the macroscopic world of galaxies. In pursuing such questions, planetary scientists merge relevant topics in traditional disciplines such as physics, chemistry, geology, biology, and astronomy with engineering and computational expertise. One consequence of this unique interdisciplinary foundation is the spectacular success of the nation's solar system exploration program. The PTYS curriculum includes courses designed to meet the following needs of undergraduates: Lower division courses required by liberal arts majors to satisfy General Education requirements for science. Upper division courses for science majors who require a planetary perspective for career development. Interdisciplinary hands-on courses for education majors who are preparing to teach science in public schools. First Year Colloquia for freshmen in which specialized topics in planetary science are explored through discussion and conversation in small, informal classes led by faculty. A list of all undergraduate courses.	Thursday, 26 Nov 09 — Sunday, 29 Nov Thanksgiving recess Wednesday, 9 Dec 09 Last day of classes and laboratory sessions Thursday, 10 Dec 09 Reading Day - no classes or finals Friday, 11 Dec 09 Final examinations begin Monday, 14 Dec 09 — Friday, 18 Dec 2009 AGU Fall Meeting Friday, 18 Dec 09 Final examinations end Saturday, 19 Dec 09 Winter Commencement/Graduation Saturday, 19 Dec 09 Residence halls close Wednesday, 13 Jan 10 Classes begin Monday, 18 Jan 10 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday - no classes