Graduate Schools for Planetary Science

Planetary science is a dynamic and diverse discipline. Typically, research scientists earn a PhD in a field such as geology, chemistry, astronomy, physics, etc. while focusing their research in that area to planetary or solar system oriented topics. Because of the great diversity in represented fields, we have attempted to compile a list of the graduate programs which can lead to a PhD with a planetary science focus. The data are divided into groups based on location, either in the USA/Canada or International. The USA/Canada group is further subdivided by size as defined by the number of planetary science researchers at the institution based on DPS membership. The individual program entries include information on the major fields of study/research, degrees offered, and information related to applying for the particular graduate program. The information here is meant as a starting point, a first-stop to see a summary of such information all at once. Of course, if you plan to apply to any of these programs, be sure to contact them directly in order to get the most up-to-date details. In general, application deadlines are in December for admission to the program in the following Fall semester and will typically require GRE scores at the time of the application, so plan ahead!

While the list is extensive, it is most likely not comprehensive and we are always happy to add programs as we find out about them. If you have any additions, corrections, or additional information, please email us! — David Klassen, Sanlyn Buxner

If you would like information about obtaining career advice, see the DPS MentorNet program.

This spreadsheet lists open MS/PhD positions in planetary science starting Fall 2021. If you are faculty and would like to be added to this list, please fill out the form here.