Astrobiology studies the origins, evolution, distribution and future of life in the universe. Biogeoscience focuses on the interaction of biological, geological and chemical processes on Earth in the present, past and future. These topics are closely related because the concepts of biogeoscience inform the study of planetary habitability and the search for habitable worlds.

Therefore, the astrobiology and biogeoscience concentration in the BS program in earth and space exploration is designed to offer students a strong foundation for exploring the interaction of geological and biological processes and understanding how such interactions sustain life on Earth and how they might operate on other planets. Those with this necessary scientific background contribute to the search for life on other planets, explore the life of extreme environments here on Earth and better understand how life on Earth responds to past, current and future global changes.

Students currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (astrobiology and biogesciences) may not pursue a concurrent degree with the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration, the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (astrophysics), the BA in earth and environmental studies, the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (exploration systems design), or the Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration (geological sciences) due to the high level of overlap in curriculum. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.