Astrobiology Minor

Students completing a minor in Astrobiology will be able to:

• Explain the interdisciplinary foundations of astrobiology, including the biological, chemical, geological, and astronomical processes relevant to the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe.

• Describe the conditions required for planetary habitability and evaluate how these conditions arise and change over time on Earth and other planetary bodies.

• Analyze the origin and evolution of life on Earth and apply these principles to hypotheses about potential life elsewhere in the universe.

• Critically evaluate scientific evidence and claims related to astrobiology, including those presented in scholarly literature, media, and public discourse.

• Apply the scientific method to interdisciplinary problems, integrating data and concepts from multiple scientific fields to address questions about life and habitability.

• Interpret and analyze data from laboratory, field, or observational studies relevant to astrobiology, including biological, geological, or astronomical datasets.

• Communicate scientific ideas effectively, using appropriate terminology and formats for written, oral, or visual presentation to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.

• Demonstrate awareness of ethical, societal, and planetary-protection considerations associated with the search for life beyond Earth and space exploration.