GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
$119K/yr
Average Salary
8 years
Years of Education
+5%
Job Growth
Many
Total Jobs
Studies planets, moons, and small bodies. Often combines geology, atmospheric science, and astronomy. NASA / JPL employer common.
$59K
Starting
$119K
Average
$179K
Senior
High School Diploma or GED
Foundation requirement for all pathways
Doctoral Degree in Astronomy
Typically 8 years
Start your career
Entry-level positions and internships
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3 credits · English & Writing
$1,703
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9 credits · World Languages
$5,303
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6 credits · World Languages
$3,503
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12 credits · World Languages
$7,103
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Certification data coming soon
We're still curating the certifications and licenses for this career. In the meantime, check the role's professional association or BLS occupation page (linked above) for current credential requirements.
Field
Science & Research
Required Degree
Doctoral Degree
Time in School
8 years
Job Demand
10-Year Job Growth
+5%
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Create free account →Federal labor-market data for Planetary Scientist
Pay range
$59K–$179K
10th–90th percentile
Job growth
+5%
projection unavailable
Number of jobs
—
unavailable
As fast as average
Moderate demand growth expected
Typical duties
Detailed duties for this role are not currently tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. See methodology notes below.
Wages reconciled to BLS OEWS May 2024 for SOC 19-2042 (Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers): A_PCT10-A_PCT90 = $58,790-$178,880, median $99,240.